book data
26 ratings, 4.00 average rating, 5 reviews
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published
October 31st 2006
by Penguin Books
binding
Paperback, 240 pages
isbn
0143037935
(isbn13: 9780143037934)
description
Winner of the 2005 Story Prize
Reminiscent of Alice Munro and William Trevor, Patrick O'Keeffe's lyrical eloquence expressively unve...more
Reminiscent of Alice Munro and William Trevor, Patrick O'Keeffe's lyrical eloquence expressively unve...more
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other reviews (showing 1-20 of 41)
Read in January, 2006
recommends it for:
Everyone
Since I wrote the description of the book when I added it, I will let that speak for me:
This book is a considerable literary achievement and must be admired for both its formidable textuality and the richness of its stories. The book, a series of four linked novellas, is a journey through several periods in Irish history. O'Keeffe, a writer of astounding magnitude, is able to make Ireland and her people come alive with sympathetic vigor and admirable candor. It is difficult to write a bo...more
This book is a considerable literary achievement and must be admired for both its formidable textuality and the richness of its stories. The book, a series of four linked novellas, is a journey through several periods in Irish history. O'Keeffe, a writer of astounding magnitude, is able to make Ireland and her people come alive with sympathetic vigor and admirable candor. It is difficult to write a bo...more
Read in April, 2008
Continuing my post trip Irish literary journey, the setting for these novellas is rural Ireland. Apparently they are no happier in the countryside than in the city (The Gathering). Again --diaspora, dark secrets, grudges, and hurt feelings. As the dust jacket says "Love and devotion, secrets, unfulfilled dreams, and missed opportunities mark these characters". That being said, it is a good read and I will send my copy to my travel buddy (you know who you are).
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Read in February, 2006
recommends it for:
humans with hearts that beat
These stories (or "linked novellas") are beautiful and heartbreaking, and the dialogue offers a delicious crash-course in Irish slang. When this book won the prestigious Story Prize, I heard people comparing it to DUBLINERS; before reading it myself, I was dubious of such ardent praise (who wouldn't be?), but after, I was won over. The only thing better than reading it yourself is hearing Patrick read from it.
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Read in January, 2005
I totally forgot about this book until I came across a review of it. As soon as I saw the cover I remembered how much I enjoyed it. Very well written.
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Read in January, 2005
recommends it for:
anyone
Beautiful, poetic language. I especially liked Her Black Mantilla and The Postman's Cottage. This man can write!
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