Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt

Penned by Frank McCourt, Angela's Ashes: A Memoir is an autobiographic account of his childhood growing up in Limerick, Ireland in the 1930s and 40s. The book follows McCourt and siblings as they move from Depression-era New York to Ireland and as they attempt to navigate the struggles of poverty and an alcoholic father. Told through boyish innocence and wonder, McCourt and family fight tooth and nail to survive in the unforgiving Limerick slums. McCourt mixes humor and tragedy on the same page, and often in the same paragraph, to present an accurate picture of their struggles and survival.

This is one of my favorite books to date. I found myself being unable to stop turning the pages of this riveting read. It was very interesting to read a first-hand account of the poverty in Ireland in the 1930s. It sparked conversations between me and my father whose parents were born in Ireland and grew up in similar situations as the McCourt family. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an interesting historical read. That said, proceed with caution, as this book contains themes that may be upsetting to some readers. 

Reviewed by Jean D, Grade 12

Glendale Central Library