The Spinning Heart
by Donal Ryan.
An interesting and clever jigsaw of a story that was for some of us hard work -
perhaps it should be sub-titled ''The Spinning Head'' (quote from Tom O'Gorman).
Nevertheless it was worth the effort - a parade of lively vignettes written with humanity and humour - describing relationships and events from different perspectives.
The Spinning Heart was written with a light touch and humour in spite of the situation and the compassion the stories raised for those damaged characters living through the 'collapse of 'Ireland'.
From twenty one well drawn and believable characters we all had our favourites; with Bobby being the one main thread throughout -
we shared our collective despair at the unjust treatment he faced when, in spite of every other character admiring him for his generosity of spirit
and kind hearted gestures, everyone without question believed him capable of a heinous crime.
A powerful, bleak and yet tender novel - not just an 'Irish story' but an interesting account of the times; incorporating loss, despair, love and even a who done it mystery,
this first novel scored a healthy four stars - and universal agreement that it was certainly worth a second read just to luxuriate in the fabulous writing.
SB
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