A Welsh visitor to the Scottish coast abandons his former life to master the demanding and unpredictable trade of a commercial fisherman. David Jones arrives in the Hebrides for a climbing holiday but finds himself drawn into the local maritime culture through his friendship with a seasoned fisherman named Donald. The narrative follows David as he navigates the physical rigors of lobster and herring fishing, contrasting his new, rugged environment with the strict religious upbringing he left behind in Wales. The story tracks his transformation from an inexperienced outsider, or 'Green Hand,' into a capable member of the local fleet. The prose captures the daily rhythms of coastal life and the specific challenges of working on the North Atlantic waters.

Readers frequently highlight the authentic portrayal of Hebridean life and the author's ability to balance humor with the stark realities of the fishing trade. Discussion often centers on the protagonist's internal shift as he sheds his past constraints to embrace a more visceral, labor-intensive existence. Critics often note the atmospheric quality of the setting, which serves as a central character in the narrative. The pacing is generally described as steady, reflecting the repetitive yet demanding nature of the work described in the text. Many readers appreciate the focus on the camaraderie found within the small, isolated community of fishermen.