Play Book Tag discussion

The further I went into this story, the better I liked it. The story is told in the first person by Cyril. He starts the story with his soon-to-be, unmarried, teenage mother. He explains that he learned this part of his story from his mother. The story follows Cyril through his whole life, into his 70s. In these 70 years, Ireland and society in general changes, but I didn't feel that Cyril ever does.

I was so unhappy with Cyril's "parents". As time went on, though, I realized that they were just quirky. I still didn't like them, but they were quite the characters, and they never mistreated Cyril.
Cyril is a wonderful character, but Boyne didn't stop there; he created many more excellent characters throughout the book.

The story moves from Ireland to Amsterdam to New York and then back to Ireland.

There were laugh-out-loud pages and others that were so sad. For some reason, in those funny sections, I couldn't help but think of the funny British comedies I've seen on YouTube. There's also wonderful verbal banter among some of the characters.

One of my favorite quotes: "We hate what we fear in ourselves."

In my Lifetime Top 10!

“Every man is afraid of women as far as I can see,” said Julian, displaying an understanding of the universe far beyond his years. “That’s true,” she said. “But only because most men are not as smart as women and yet they continue to hold all the power. They fear a change of the world order.”

I agree - one of my favorite books!

I believe I also gave this one 5 stars - that's rare from me!

Yes, it covers many emotions. It was excellent on audio. I have a memory of standing in a grocery store listening to the moment near the end when things come together. That doesn't happen with most audiobooks but there are some that were so affecting or surprising that I remember where I was walking or standing when certain scenes came up. (That doesn't happen with print books since I'm almost always on my couch or bed!)

It’s in my top 10 as well! Also a five star review for me

I loved it too. That cruel priest literally KICKED Cyril’s pregnant mother to get her to leave town. Boyne writes some interesting and realistic priest characters in later books too.

Robin P wrote: "Yes, it covers many emotions. It was excellent on audio. I have a memory of standing in a grocery store listening to the moment near the end when things come together. That doesn't happen with most..."

I didn't mention it in my review, but I listened to this also. You are right, it was excellent!