Synopses & Reviews
Novelist Roddy Doyle, with his legendary skill in illuminating ordinary experience, here shares the story of his parents' lives, largely in their own words. Born in 1923 and 1925, respectively, married in 1951, Rory and Ita Doyle remember the details of their Dublin childhoods and their life together-the people and the politics, the joys and the losses-and show us the transformation of the intensely Catholic society of their youth into the vibrant modern Ireland of today. By turns poignant, wry, hilarious, and sweet but never sentimental, Rory & Ita is an account of the moments that make up two intertwined lives and a book of tremendous warmth and humanity. It offers a whole new look at Doyle's heritage and source of inspiration.
Review
"A detailed, rich memoir . . . A compelling narrative . . . To read it is to be immersed in the day-to-day life in twentieth-century Ireland . . . A gift to treasure." (San Francisco Chronicle)
About the Author
Roddy Doyle is the author of six acclaimed novels, including Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha (Booker Prize winner) and The Van<.i> (Booker Prize finalist). He has also written for the stage, film, and television, authored several books for children, and contributed to a variety of publications including the New Yorker and the anthology Speaking with the Angel.