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January 2010

 That They May Face The Rising Sun by  John McGahern .

That They May Face The Rising Sun
by John McGahern .

First Published: 2001

Internet entries:


That They May Face The Rising Sun
by John McGahern.

There was greater polarization of views on this book than we have previously experienced. To some the book had little merit. Whilst it was acknowledged that the author is good with words it was thought that too many words were used to too little effect. No interest was generated in the characters and the descriptions were over-long and bleak.

The majority of us, however, found more to enjoy in the novel with its rich depiction of Irish rural life. Scant of plot the book weaves a gorgeous tapestry of the lives of people in the landscape. The patterns of their lives and the rhythms of their speech reflect the passage of the seasons and enhance the portrayal of a community and a way of life in transition.

NS March 2010

Awards:

AA Book Club
Four stars