The Talk of the Town

I first became introduced to Ardal O'Hanlon through the Father Ted BBC series. I found him to be very witty and his delivery was right on the mark every time! When I found out he had written a book I was dying to read it. I wasn't disappointed. I found myself not being able to put the book down. I won't go into details about the story (you can read the other reviews for that). I will simply state that I enjoyed the book and it carried me away for a few hours while reading it. It is funny, sad, depressing, enlightening, thorough and complete. You don't often find so many levels in one story. Definitely recommended. By the way, if you haven't seen the Father Ted series check out the DVD! You will laugh non-stop!

This is Ardal O'Hanlon's debut novel. I say debut, because I hope that it is not the last that he writes. O'Hanlon's talents stretch far beyond the playing of Father Dougal Macguire in Channel 4's cult comedy, Father Ted. As befitting the novel of a comedian, this is a highly humorous read. However, this is black, cynical comedy of the highest order. Unlike Father Dougal, there's nothing dim or cute about this book, which plumbs the depths of darkest despair. It is the story of Patrick Scully, a young Irishman in early Eighties Dublin, and of his mounting rage at the incomprehensible world which springs up around him. The novel benefits a great deal from the structure that O'Hanlon has created. Part of the novel derives from the diary of Francesca, Scully's girlfriend, and provides a powerful insight into how Scully is seen by others. Here, Scully is truly from Mars, and Francesca from Venus, and their stormy relationship could fuel any number of Self-help books. I was particularly impressed by the portrayal of Francesca, whom O'Hanlon imbues with a real depth of character. There are a few moments of caricature, namely Scully's mother, but even she has a certain amount of truth. "The Talk of the Town" is one of the best reads I've had this year, and the novel certainly lives up to its name.

Having grown up and attended college in Ireland in the eighties this book brought back a flight of memories. The author's recounting of an insecure, jealous Irish male is note perfect. The book is funny, disturbing and accurate down to the smallest details. How did the Author know they played 'New York New York' to close my local disco every Saturday night?

This is like "The Butcher Boy", only funnier. A great read, Ardal's comic talent shines through. Do yourself a favor and buy it.

As a newcomer to Ireland, I was particularly interested in the colloquiums. I was hooked from page 1 and found myself wanting to laugh out very loud at the conversations the diverse range of characters had. This was unfortunately difficult to do as often I would be reading it on the bus to work!