Waterland is a novel by Graham Swift that tells the story of a history teacher, Tom Crick, who is forced to retire from his job due to budget cuts. As he reflects on his life and the history of the Fens region in England, he begins to unravel a complex web of family secrets and tragedies.
Through a series of flashbacks, Tom recounts his childhood growing up in the Fens with his troubled brother, Dick, and their eccentric parents. He also delves into the history of the region, including the draining of the marshes and the impact it had on the local community.
As Tom delves deeper into his past, he uncovers dark secrets that have been buried for generations. The novel explores themes of memory, guilt, and the ways in which the past shapes our present. It is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of family, history, and the mysteries of the human heart.