IN THE CASTLE OF THE FLYNNS - Softcover

Raleigh, Michael

3.89

479 ratings by Goodreads

9780007134465: IN THE CASTLE OF THE FLYNNS

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0007134460 ISBN 13: 9780007134465

Publisher: HarperCollins, 2010

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This is the story of a young boy saved from unspeakable despair as he is embraced by Irish love. 'An amazing book, a troika of laughter, love and loss.' Malachy McCourt

The year is 1954, the setting a vibrant Chicago neighborhood.

Daniel Dorsey learns at the age of seven the intimate meaning of death when his parents are killed in a car crash. Taken in by his extended, at times mad, and always tender and caring family, Daniel learns that even the deepest sorrows and hurt can be healed.

Now grown and looking back on those years, Daniel recalls his bouts with grief and fear of abandonment as he learns to adjust to his new surroundings amidst his oddball family. It is a time of wakes and weddings, conflicts and romance. Above all, it is a time when Daniel comes to understand both his own loss and the dark places in the lives of his loved ones.

In the Castle of the Flynns is a poignant, often hilarious story of hope, passions, and unforgettable memories.

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Review:

Set in 1950s Chicago, In the Castle of the Flynns chronicles the painful early years of young Daniel Dorsey. Following the tragic death of his parents, Daniel's loving grandparents, caring aunts and wild uncles do their utmost to ensure he receives the love and attention he craves. But despite becoming the centre of two remarkable Irish-American families, Daniel finds there is simply no replacing his beloved mother and father.

Things go from bad to worse when Daniel's behavioural problems attract the unwanted attention of schoolteacher Sister Polycarp, and Daniel's misery is compounded when he crosses paths with local bullies. But through trial and error and with more than a little help from friends and relatives, Daniel overcomes his obstacles.

The strength of this novel rests with author Michael Raleigh's skill in presenting Daniel's view of the world, his life and the lives of those around him. The moments when Daniel faces his loneliness and remorse are touchingly narrated and handled with great sensitivity, while his inquisitive nature and encounters with a perplexing adult world make for hilarious reading.

In the Castle of the Flynns is an uplifting testament to all that's good about human nature. The portrayal of Daniel himself is both inspired and inspiring while his extensive family provides an assortment of hugely entertaining characters. Tragic, comic and heart-warming by turns, this tale of love, loss and self-discovery will linger long in the memory. --David Thwaites

Review:

'There is wonderful and hilarious writing in this man's book and if you escape without shaking with mirth or silently weeping, then check into the nearest morgue, for it's dead you are.' Malachy McCourt

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