Fry the Little Fishes

by Matt McGinn

145 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1975

About the author

Matt McGinn was a Scottish folk singer-songwriter, actor, author and poet. Born in Glasgow in the late 1920s. McGinn was a prolific songwriter and is recognised as an influential figure in the folk music revival of the late Fifties and early Sixties.

Reviews

[Odhran Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exploring themes of poverty, religion, youth and criminality set in front of a backdrop of wartime Glasgow, 'Fry the Little Fishes' is a poignant and moving novel about disaffected youths in a callous and confusing society. The first, and sadly last, foray into novel writing from the beloved Matt McGinn, the book is written with his signature wit, compassion and intellect while still remaining impressively entertaining.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matt McGinn is more well known as a singer and songwriter, but also wrote books and plays. This story is informed by his own time in a Catholic approved school. Set in Glasgow during World War 2 it follows a teenager into the strict world of St Martin's school, where bullying and threat are the order of the day. There is much humour, but also a lot of pathos. Glasgow of 85 years ago brought to life, and very recognisable.