Helpful Score: 12
This book won the Pullitzer prize and is excellent. It is hard to understand the kind of poverty that drove so many immigrants to this country. This book recalls the Northern Ireland childhood of the author and is the story of his family and their survival. An amazing story that is, in a way, the story of many of our grandparents who came here to find a better life not only for themselves but their decendants- us. If you are not grateful, you will be after reading this book.
Helpful Score: 10
This is a very moving and heart wrenching story of a young boy's life. It details life in Ireland, in the poorest sections of town, most of the time in gruesome and honest detail. I'm glad I read it, but it's not for everyone. It deals with severe alcoholism, emotional and physical neglect of infants and children; and basically , "man's inhumanity towards man".
Helpful Score: 9
I had never heard of this book before coming on PBS...I saw it when I did the search option, and thought it sounded good, and it is now one of my top favorite books of all time. What a great book, and now that I have it, I don't know if I will part with my copy or not. :-) I highly recommend it, very very good reading.
Helpful Score: 8
One of those books that horrifies and facinates at the same time. To think that "modern" times can still have such challenges as the characters in this book were faced with is hard to think about. However, McCort's written voice (heck, you can almost hear the broge while reading it) and the written tone is light in many places, and the missunderstandings and misshaps caused by such utter "ignorance" of the time and place are often hysterical.
Helpful Score: 8
This was a wonderful book in many ways - whose story I need not describe here since it has become so well known - but personally I became more and more disturbed by Frank's father and his utter failure in his role as protector and provider for his family. What he allowed to happen to his family, because of his own weaknesses, was unforgiveable, and Frank's hopeful attempts to see the best when his father would come 'round again were heartbreaking.
Helpful Score: 7
This is a wonderfully written memoir of Frank McCourt's childhood, first in New York and then in Ireland. You see his mother (Angela), father, and siblings live a very hard and tumultuous life. Frank McCourt's writing style is very unique... very conversational. But, also very colorful... you can see what he sees and feel the emotion he feels. You will laugh out loud at times and feel like crying at others. The book ends with great hope, as he heads to New York to begin his adult life there. The next book, 'Tis, continues the story. Highly recommended.
Helpful Score: 5
"Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood," writes Frank McCourt in Angela's Ashes. "Worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood." Welcome, then, to the pinnacle of the miserable Irish Catholic childhood. Born in Brooklyn in 1930 to recent Irish immigrants Malachy and Angela McCourt, Frank grew up in Limerick after his parents returned to Ireland because of poor prospects in America. It turns out that prospects weren't so great back in the old country either--not with Malachy for a father. A chronically unemployed and nearly unemployable alcoholic, he appears to be the model on which many of our more insulting cliches about drunken Irish manhood are based. Mix in abject poverty and frequent death and illness and you have all the makings of a truly difficult early life. Fortunately, in McCourt's able hands it also has all the makings for a compelling memoir
Helpful Score: 5
I kept reading this book thinking that something good had to eventually happen to this family. I did not enjoy the book and often had to force myself to continue through it but I do admire the author for eventually overcoming the extreme odds stacked against him at a young age.
Helpful Score: 5
God this was a funny book, even though the story it tells is terrifically sad. McCourth does an excellent job of narrating this memoir with a fresh, uncynical voice. It almost feels like he is the child telling the story instead of a grown man looking back--although it is not childishly written. Much much better than the movie. Some parts of this will make you laugh out loud.
Helpful Score: 4
I knew that this would be sad, but the spirit of the child shines through like the sun between clouds.
Helpful Score: 4
I highly recommend Angela's Ashes. A true story written by the author but using the point of view he had as a child growing up in extremely tough times. Because it's all he knew at the time, his perception is one of acceptance and survival. This book and such an impact on me. A must read!
Helpful Score: 4
I absolutely love this author, I have collected all his works in hardback. Truly a person who worked hard and was able to achieve the American dream. Books can be a little gritty for those who are used to mainstream, happy books but they will move you. I am a jaded reader and it takes alot to touch me and I have loved everyone of his books
Helpful Score: 3
On recommendation of a friend I read this book. I'm not a memoir reader but am happy I read this one. It reads like a novel that draws you in almost immediately. The horrors, struggles and happiness (if you can call it that) are astounding. How Frank survived is unbelievable and survived to become a functioning member of society. In my own story I can relate to his survival and shedding his troubled childhood. Frank's story shows what can happen if you want to change your life.
Helpful Score: 3
I enjoyed this book back when it was first released. Much better than the movie. The movie was such a disappointment but Frank McCourt wrote a very moving, and quite sad account of his life in Ireland way back when. Good quick read, don't bother with the film.
Helpful Score: 3
Maybe I'm just a heartless oaf, but all that sweet humanity that the book got so much credit for largely missed me. But nice writing and not your average memoir.
Helpful Score: 3
A truely great memoir! Its hard for a book to be both sad and funny at the same time, but McCourt manages to do so. A touching tale of growing up in poverty in Ireland.
Helpful Score: 3
The writing style was a bit convoluted, but once you get used to it, it gives it a very real sense of being in the author's thoughts. Poignant and witty, it provides a realistic insight into so many childhoods from that era.
Helpful Score: 2
This is memoir of the author of his growing up years in America, then back to his parents homeland of Ireland. I was amazed at the many ways they tried to keep warm with few clothes, no blankets, scraps of coal from the streets, hot water tea and a small portion of bread for their meager meals. Few of us can understand their pain of so little food and then the loss when three children die but strive to carry on for the sake of the living children. I was captivated by Frank's desire to earn money to help his family and eventually return to America, his lifelong dream.
Helpful Score: 2
"Angela's Ashes" was an amazing memoir that allowed the reader to see that there are so many things in our present day lives that we take for granted, while others around us barely have enough to survive. Frank McCourt was one of the latter. He survived against the odds while the world seemed stacked against him. During a time of great poverty the McCourt family kept their heads above water, literally in some occasions. While issues regarding children may upset you the story of his first communion will have you laughing. This is a great book for everyone.
Helpful Score: 2
Okay, so I'm not a Frank McCourt fan. I'll admit that openly. I find his writing to be uncharacteristally whiney and without deep meaning as opposed to other Irish contemporaries of his. Although the story does portray a very real situation of growing up in certain areas of Ireland, McCourt fails to find beauty and meaning in anything around him, which is a shame. While I think this book should be read as a comprehensive shortlist of contemporary Irish literature, I have a few suggestions of my own that might lend readers to a more fair and balanced view of this genre.
Helpful Score: 2
this is, without a doubt, one of the best books ever written. it will become a classic. read it. it is a keeper.
Helpful Score: 2
Beautiful story - perfect ending. Sad life, except for the father, whom i would like to speak to face to face, this was a pretty loving family. Mom loved her boys, and i realize would not of considered dumping the "dad", but i wish she could of smartened up some. It almost seemed like the kids had all the sense of survival. I cried for these boys. Nothing in life is a sure thing but things were terrible for these boys when they were young. Everything that comes to them now has been earned. If you know someone who is never satisified with what they have, ask them to read this book. They will feel blessed. Loved the book.
Helpful Score: 2
really good book. great writing style. would read it again.
Helpful Score: 2
Loved this book! Couldn't put it down. Did not enjoy the sequel, "Tis" quite as much, but this one was a real winner. Incredible how he writes from a child's perspective at the beginning. I was engaged all the way through.
Helpful Score: 2
This was interesting, but very depressing. I have never experienced true poverty as this family did. there seemed to be no generosity in his community, and lots of alcoholism. I did not like all the sexual content in this book. Also all the Catholic fear and superstition was interesting to read about.
Helpful Score: 2
If you enjoy reading about bad parents, alcoholism, extreme poverty, illness, and death, then by all means pick up Angela's Ashes. Why is it that many of the "critically acclaimed" books are unenduringly depressing? I understand that this is a memoir, and it is a miracle that Frank McCourt and some of his siblings survived this kind of upbringing, but it isn't exactly what I want to read about in my spare time.
Excellent story telling especially for a first book. I loved this one from front to back. It is told so vividly, you feel as if you are watching a movie.The story brings out how painfully cruel poverty is. Made me aware of all of the things that are taken for granted each and every day. We dont even realize how much we do have. I love how the author used humor in telling his story and how he could find that and bring it out amidst the horror. I honestly didn't expect to even like this book but then fell in love with it. I would recommend this memoir to everyone that hasn't yet read it--you will love it too, without a doubt.
Helpful Score: 2
It's amazing that this book is as entertaining as it is being about a child's eye view of poverty and the weight of the catholic church on a child's thought processes at such an early age. Excellent book!
Helpful Score: 2
When I first started reading this book, I didn't like it. But I couldn't put it down until, a few days later, I finished it. I'm glad I read it, although I could have done without all the sexual content that McCourt felt necessary to include. His writing style -- as through the eyes of a child -- was very effective. I always mentally rate a book by whether I learned something in a book. This book was a teacher to me of the extremes of poverty, of Irish culture, of Irist humor and the love of the Irishmen of words and music and poem. Intelligence isn't only from the halls of university; it can indeed be found among the most humble of men. McCourt's father himself is quite a study of humanity. Indeed, the very title of this book has many implications and possible meanings. Yes, I am glad I read it, and I will read his further books although I cannot wholeheartedly recommend it due to its profanity and vulgarity.
Helpful Score: 2
You may as well tear your heart out and give it directly to Frank McCourt before you pick up this book. How did such a brutal childhood produce such an eloquent and insightful man?
Helpful Score: 2
Despite his difficult childhood growing up very poor, Frank McCourt brings humor and poignancy to his memoir. This book is so beautifully written that it's hard for a reader to remember that this is the US in 2007, not mid-century Ireland. Touching, haunting, and memorable.
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed this book - it is a poignant look at a really tough upbringing - the book was better for me than the film - when it was simply too overwhelming I could put it down for a break.....the film had me walking out after 30 minutes. A very good read. A classic everyone should read.
Helpful Score: 2
This book tells the story of author Frank McCourt's difficult childhood. Either he has an amazing memory or, more likely, he's embellished a bit of this to fill in the gaps to make it a readable memoir. I can't remember what I ate for breakfast, never mind what I ate or longed to eat for breakfast when I was wee child.
The book reads like a novel and I quickly forgot it was a first hand account of growing up in a slum with absolutely nothing but an exhausted mum, a lush of a dad who can't keep a job and a slew of younger siblings who seem to die off as soon as the next one is born. Frank grows up quickly because mom is tired, dad is lazy and he and his younger brother must take of the younger kids, scour the lane for bits of coal to keep his family warm, steal bits of food to survive and then face cruelty at school. The book is pretty grim so far as I've read but compelling enough that I want to continue reading to see how Frank makes it out alive.
I've seen criticism that this book is a one-sided view of Ireland during the depression and from what I read it looks like that is true. Many times in the book the author points out that other boys had shoes and weren't eating a pig head for Christmas dinner but the author gets away with it because he is writing from his experience and not of the experience of the boy with the full belly and hard-working father.
This was a thoroughly compelling, wryly funny, and often tragic read. It's much longer than most of the books I read but when the end came it was too soon.
The book reads like a novel and I quickly forgot it was a first hand account of growing up in a slum with absolutely nothing but an exhausted mum, a lush of a dad who can't keep a job and a slew of younger siblings who seem to die off as soon as the next one is born. Frank grows up quickly because mom is tired, dad is lazy and he and his younger brother must take of the younger kids, scour the lane for bits of coal to keep his family warm, steal bits of food to survive and then face cruelty at school. The book is pretty grim so far as I've read but compelling enough that I want to continue reading to see how Frank makes it out alive.
I've seen criticism that this book is a one-sided view of Ireland during the depression and from what I read it looks like that is true. Many times in the book the author points out that other boys had shoes and weren't eating a pig head for Christmas dinner but the author gets away with it because he is writing from his experience and not of the experience of the boy with the full belly and hard-working father.
This was a thoroughly compelling, wryly funny, and often tragic read. It's much longer than most of the books I read but when the end came it was too soon.
Helpful Score: 2
His best work--a must read and appreciate
Helpful Score: 2
This book is a powerfully written story of a boy growing up in Ireland during the war. I cannot imagine having to endure the suffering Angela survived in losing her children, one after the other and not being able to depend on her husband to bring home enough money to feed them. The fact that anyone survived during that period of time in Ireland is a miracle. I can understand why the author wanted to come to America, and why he won a Pulitzer Prize for this book.
Helpful Score: 1
Plot Synopsis: Based on the best selling autobiography by Irish expat Frank McCourt, Angela's Ashes follows the experiences of young Frankie and his family as they try against all odds to escape the poverty endemic in the slums of pre-war Limerick. The film opens with the family in Brooklyn, but following the death of one of Frankie's siblings, they return home, only to find the situation there even worse. Prejudice against Frankie's Northern Irish father makes his search for employment in the Republic difficult despite his having fought for the IRA, and when he does find money, he spends the money on drink.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a fast but incredibly enjoyable read. Just when you think the book is headed in one direction, it takes an entirely different (and many times comic) path. The book is similar to A Tree Grows in Brooklyn although adds more humor to the mix.
Helpful Score: 1
One of the best memoirs I've read.
Helpful Score: 1
what is it that transforms a childhood blighted by poverty, death and disease into a story that shines with love and leaps off the page in language of rare energy music and humor? in the case of angela's ashes, I think it must be frank mccourt's soul. this memoir is the best i've read in years.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of the best books I have read. Frank McCourt is a wonderful and very interesting writter. His life story is full of fascinating people and events. This is a must read!!
Helpful Score: 1
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize!
No one has ever written about poverty or childhood like this....
No one has ever written about poverty or childhood like this....
Helpful Score: 1
I thought this book (and movie as well) were interesting and thought provoking. I was very surprised when the family returned to Ireland after having come to America, but not be able to make it. Their life in Ireland wasn't any better ... than if they had just stayed in America. It makes you wonder how families (mothers in particular) survived such poverty, heartache and death. I am interested in reading McCourt's other book "'Tis" as well, especially since this is the last chapter and ending of the book.
I am a bit surprised that its on the extra reading for my DD's High School Independent Novel reading list ... as some of the parts get rather sexually explicit. But I don't think it's that bad and wouldn't dream of banning it.
I am a bit surprised that its on the extra reading for my DD's High School Independent Novel reading list ... as some of the parts get rather sexually explicit. But I don't think it's that bad and wouldn't dream of banning it.
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting look at post-WWII Ireland through the eyes of an American child.
Helpful Score: 1
A wonderful book that makes you appreciate life.
Helpful Score: 1
hard to read at first - amazing story
Helpful Score: 1
In short, an awesome book, riveting. You won't put it down.
Helpful Score: 1
I thought life in America was hard, but it was nothing compared to the life of the Irish during the depression....as I read of his childhood, and what his family survived I knew that I would never again complain of my own life, because it was nothing in comparison to these strong powerful families.....a must read, well worth you time to get to know this family....I couldn't put it down until the last page, and even than I thought, I have to find his other books to see how his life continued from there....
Helpful Score: 1
This book was hard for me to get into at first because of the author's writing style but I soon got into it and couldnt put it down!I ordered the sequel and cant wait to read it. This book is a lot of things rolled into one..sad, tragic, humorous, heart-wrenching, surprising.. Angela's Ashes is a true story about a little boy who barely survived his dirt-poor childhood in Ireland. His father was an alcoholic and hardly every worked. His mother struggled to feed and take care of her children. most relatives were uncaring and mean. This story will really tug at your heart
Helpful Score: 1
This book was a great read. The way the author writes is so descriptive it puts you right there with what he was feeling at the time. I read this book a really long time ago and I still remember certain parts very vividly.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a very difficult book to read. It is truly hard for me to understand this level of poverty. I keep reading thinking their lives would change for the better. I'm sure there are many who do understand and some who have it harder. It really makes you think and thank God.
Helpful Score: 1
what could possibly be left to say about 'angela's ashes'? it would be like writing a review of 'the lion king' on broadway. here's the deal. you know its brilliant. you know its critically acclaimed. now you can find out why.
Helpful Score: 1
McCourt has a way of drawing you in -- a must read, I'd say.
Helpful Score: 1
He is matchless in his first book. As an Irish-American child growing up in a Boston suburb this is the best way I've ever found to describe my childhood. The movie is superb also. His later books, notsomuch. On my list to have my grandchild read and see when se wants to know her ancestry.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a very touching memoir. I read it when I was in high school and loved it. I read it again a few months ago after not reading it for years, and I found the language and content such that I didn't want to read it anymore. That doesn't take away from the reality of the story and the horrible situations that this boy was in, but I didn't want to continue.
Helpful Score: 1
A gut wrenching story of a childhood of poverty and survival.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one that I won't post because I don't want to give it up. I've re-read it several times. Frank McCourt's autobiographical story of growing up poor in Ireland hits you, as they say, right here. Loved it.
Helpful Score: 1
Angela's Ashes was a great book, by a talented writer. At times sad, & mournful. A good read.
Helpful Score: 1
I could not put this book down. It made me appreciate all that I have. The trials this family underwent had me in tears often. A true triumph for Frank and his brothers to make it out of poverty and to become the authors, actors and successful people they are today.
Helpful Score: 1
Frank's story of growing up poor in Ireland. A moving story, beautifully written. Often heartbreaking and just as often hilariaous, I was touched and uplifted by his resilience. What spirit!
Helpful Score: 1
There aren't that many books that I could read and re-read but this is one of them. Frank McCourts account of his family could be told by thousands of people who had lives such as this. Prepare your emotions they will go in all directions.
So good.
So good.
Helpful Score: 1
I am a sucker for memoirs and Frank McCourt is exceptional at depicting what he saw of his mother's life through his childhood eyes.
Helpful Score: 1
A spellbinding memoir of childhood that swerves flawlessly between aching sadness and desperate humor. great book
Helpful Score: 1
This is a good book. This is the book that got me hooked on reading memoirs. I highly recommend this one.
Helpful Score: 1
I hated this book. How long can you read about a downtrodden family treated horrendously by their dad. Yuck!! On the other hand it did win the pulitzer prize and it is my friends favorite book of all time. You decide.
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderfully tragic.
Helpful Score: 1
Incredible. One of the top five books I've read in my life. Story about the author's experiences in the poorest parts of Ireland as a child.
Helpful Score: 1
fantastic book, touching and heart wrenching
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book... Tore through it in a couple of days... Frank McCourt's childhood was quite absorbing to read about. Sobering too!
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful book about growing up very poor in Ireland. Reminded my grandfather of his life. A must read for anyone from Irish decent.
Helpful Score: 1
One of the best memoirs I've read. His story really draws you in. A must read!
Helpful Score: 1
A WONDERFUL memoir - gritty, honest, and heartbreaking.
Helpful Score: 1
A treasure of a memoir. Alternately despairing and laugh-out-loud funny, Angela's Ashes is a portrait of hope in the face of hopelessness.
Helpful Score: 1
Absolutely loved reading this memoir. Completely captivating. An amazing story of love, loyalty and a families struggle to survive.
Helpful Score: 1
A great book that gives you insight how the poor lived. Sad, but good!
Helpful Score: 1
I LOVE this book, and all of Frank McCourt's books. They are beautifully written and read brilliantly by the author. You really feel like you are there, going through all that the author is going through. I cherish these books. They remind me to be thankful for all that I have and remind me that if he could survive all that he does in his childhood in this book, then I too can survive whatever gets me down.
Helpful Score: 1
This is the moving memoir of the writer Frank McCourt read in his own words. He endures a brutally poor and lonely childhood but tells his story with astounding humor, compassion and eloquence!
Helpful Score: 1
This was tragically gripping. I cried all the way through.
Helpful Score: 1
one of my favorite books of all times....and auther, always witty, and humorous. Real story, real emotions.....great book
Helpful Score: 1
An amazing story - heart-rending, funny, sad, horrifying. You name it!
Helpful Score: 1
The picture on the cover, though it may not be Frank McCourt himself, personifies the childhood he had: poor, barefoot, yet smiling. He survives without the bitterness that some others acquire.
It is hard for some of us to read about her relatives turning their backs on Angela when she falls into depression after her baby girl dies, and then when the twins die. Angela, as well as Frank, beg and steal to keep the family fed and together.
It could be subtitled Survivor: Limerick.
It is hard for some of us to read about her relatives turning their backs on Angela when she falls into depression after her baby girl dies, and then when the twins die. Angela, as well as Frank, beg and steal to keep the family fed and together.
It could be subtitled Survivor: Limerick.
Helpful Score: 1
Very good book. Heard it first on tape from the library.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book, plain and simple. I don't know many other authors who could tell such a tragic story and make you laugh all the way through it, but McCourt does it, and does it well, without losing the message of the story. It'll make you laugh, it'll make you cry, it'll make you think. I can't recommend it highly enough.
Helpful Score: 1
I found this book to be very depressing, and seemingly never-ending. Dad's drunk, beating Mom and the kids, but we still love him. Now he's quit drinking, and everything is great. Oops, he fell off the wagon again, and we have to move to a hovel, and be subjected to beatings once more. But wait, he has quit drinking again....and the cycle continues through the entire book. I read it because of the rave reviews, but still do not understand what all the hubbub was about. Will not be reading any more of this author's books.
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent book. True story, a tear-jerker at times, that will pull at your heartstrings...and will also bring laughter. The reality of poverty in Ireland.
Helpful Score: 1
i loved this story, much more than the follow up 'TIS. This story stays with you and brings his childhood to life. well written, and very moving.
Helpful Score: 1
A beautiful memoir of a childhood,---living in poverty in Ireland. Written with love and even humor. A story of survival and growth, beyond all odds. A story you will never forget! Winner of the Pulitzer Prize.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is a really well written memoir. It's gripping and poignant throughout!
McCourt's memoir is sad, but with hysterical views told from the eyes of a child. I loved this book.
My husband and I âread' Angela's Ashes together with me as the reader. I have heard of the movie, but never seen it and didn't really know what the book was about. As I was reading, my husband kept saying, âit is just telling stuff about someone's life' and he kept wondering when it would get better. Apparently, he was hoping for lots of action. I, on the other hand like all types of literature so a story about someone's life was fine with me. It seems impossible to imagine growing up in such poverty with all the struggles they went through, along with the alcoholic father and all the different dynamics of the family and characters in the author's life. I certainly learned quite a few new words, whether they were curses or daily language of people in Ireland at the time. At the end of the book, we learned there is a sequel and I am going to be looking for that; I like to know, what happened next. Yes, I'll read it aloud to my husband, too. ð Personally, due to some of the content, the book is for adults and not younger readers.
The story is tragic and emotionally draining but it just may make you appreciate your own childhood. The author's writing style is much like reading over journal entries and the thoughts can be a bit "choppy" but as the book progresses, it is easier to appreciate.
a childhood memoir both funny and forgiving.
This is a sad yet intriguing story. One of those books that you can't put down. The sequel to this book is not as good. This is one of my very favorite books.
An incredible book about growing up as a poor little boy in Ireland. So good, I had to immediately purchase its sequel.
I absolutely love this book. It is so well written and it pulls you into it the story.
A story of an Irish Catholic family. It's a coming-of-age story that made me laugh out loud, but at moments found my heart breaking. It's a very educational book.
This true story keeps you on the edge of your seat. I first read the book then saw the movie. The movie was good but the book of course goes into much more detail. Well worth reading.
loved this so much I has to get the next one.
REALLY LIKED IT, VERY SAD
This is one of those books I couldn't put down. I read it through the night, into next day. Couldn't stop. I recommend it. It's powerfully dark at times, but wow.
This is a very difficult book to read. Few of us have experienced such poverty and to read and know this is not fiction but the true life accounting of the author caused me to feel extreme discomfort. But, like watching a car wreck, you cannot help but continue on through accounts of hunger, pain, and hurtful family relationships. In fact, I ordered the follow-on book of Frank McCourt's life so that I might understand where he landed and how he saved himself from the utter despair of his childhood. Great book.
This was a thrill for me since I am Irish and my brother-in-law is from the setting of the book.
At times extremely funny and at times very sad.
At times extremely funny and at times very sad.
A great read. Although Frank McCourt's childhood was rough he was able to write about it with some humor. Made me want to find his second novel ASAP!
This is one of those books that you can't put down. Mainly because you begin to wonder if things will EVER look up for Frank! The descriptions of that particular place (Limerick) and that particular time (pre and just post WWII) will stick with me forever.
Great book. Another perspective on the Holocaust. This from a young Jewish boy.
A very good writer, but too self-indulgent for me (this is only one of his autobiographies).
If you haven't read this you should, I think.
I read this book because I loved "Ireland" so much. I really enjoyed most of it, but felt let down at the end. I feel that the whole feeling of the book is brought down by the end. Of course it is a memoir, so I guess there was no choice?
This is a tale of Frank McCourt's childhood.
I got it for a college course I took and later found out Frank McCourt was my friend's high school English teacher in Brooklyn!
I got it for a college course I took and later found out Frank McCourt was my friend's high school English teacher in Brooklyn!
Frank McCourt's vivid and compelling account of his childhood in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Horrifying and bleak, humourous and compassionate...sometimes all at once. McCourt's memoir is also an amazing account of story-telling and the redemptive role that it played in his family's life. Deeply moving, beautifully written. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize. If you love memoir, you must read this book!
Pulitzer Prize winner
Angela's Ashes was humorous and heart-wrenching at the same time. The intricate details Mr. McCourt writes about really puts the reader in war torn Ireland (Secretly wishing for a Guiness- but that's just me...)
It was one of those endearing books that made me want to read every other book he has written.....In fact, I immediately started 'Tis as soon as I put this one down.
It was one of those endearing books that made me want to read every other book he has written.....In fact, I immediately started 'Tis as soon as I put this one down.
Sad story. Feel lucky to be living in America with plentiful food and roof over my head.
It was an interesting read, and informative about Catholics and Irish upbringing and the poor conditions. Not my normal read and am questioning whether I want to read more of this author.
I love it so much, I ordered part 2. Makes you grateful for what you have, and you cannot believe someone had to grow up that hard and still survived!
I really enjoyed reading this book, so much so that I read his subsequent books about his life. It's another unforgettable story of surviving a dysfunctional childhood and is worth reading.
Simply, one of the best reads ever. Funny and heartbreaking and you don't have to be Catholic to enjoy it.
One of the most enchanting life stories I have read.
I could not put this book down. This autobiography absolutely moved me from tears, to out loud laughter, to disbelief. It will give you such a perspective of life. A must read!!!
Excellent account with a great sense of humor about growing up destitute in Ireland during wwII.
WOW! Take your guts and wrench them out. All you want to do is go and pick little "Frank" up and say, I'll fix it honey, don't you worry", but you can't. He's grown up and telling you the story, but you still wish you could at least give him a hug.
I really loved this book! I couldn't put it down. It is one of the best I have read in a long time. When I finished reading it, I was sorry I was done!
Abosully loved this book. Even began speaking in Irish dialect "not really" but, I felt like I was in Ireland or atleast surrounded by Irish. Excellant book
This is another case of a well-written book that has a compelling story that I so wish I could share with my teenagers. But the vulgar parts are just too much, which is really a shame because this is a tale that the kids of today should learn.
I found this story very depressing, and in fact, did not finish the book. I figured if it was on the best seller list, it had to be good, right? Wrong.
It was a little to raw for me to enjoy reading - disturbing actually. The writing itself is great, the subject matter was just rather dismal.
It was a little to raw for me to enjoy reading - disturbing actually. The writing itself is great, the subject matter was just rather dismal.
I read this book and really enjoyed listening to it on tape. It is a special treat to have the author reading it. I couldn't wait to resume driving in my car so that I could continue to hear the story. Very, very good read and even better "listen".
Great book about growing up poor in Ireland.
This is a true story of the author's terrible childhood in 1930s Ireland.
He suffered through the negative effects of a severe and unthinking Irish Catholic upbringing, coupled with his parents alcoholism and irresponsibility. You won't soon forget his story, which will make you thankful for your own dull and boring upbringing by average middle class parents.
He suffered through the negative effects of a severe and unthinking Irish Catholic upbringing, coupled with his parents alcoholism and irresponsibility. You won't soon forget his story, which will make you thankful for your own dull and boring upbringing by average middle class parents.
I loved this book
AWESOME BOOK! I LOVE IT!
A classic of a memoir that lets you see inmto his soul
Depressing, but inspiring story of someone who didn't let his life situation get in the way of being a good person.
This is such a wonderful book. A very good read, so memorable.
a wonderful book i loved reading it because i couldnt put it down very moving
A wonderfully written memoir. I read this book when I was 12 and enjoyed it, then reread it again when I was older and understood so much more of it. A good read about the life of an Irish boy, definitely recommended
A tear your heart out book.
An amazing story of an Irish family dealing with alcoholism, poverty. Later made into a movie.
a wonderful story filled with humor and abject poverty.after reading this i wondered if i could have survived this time in Ireland's history
a really good read
a really good read
an amazing book about a miserable Irish Catholic childhood
Very quick read on an interesting childhood.
A few slightly humorous descriptions of events in the early part of the author's life, but for the most part a very sad, depressing tale of poverty and hunger in Irland in the early 20th Century.
I loved this book, a great story about life, love, pverty and family
growing up in Ireland...
Frank McCourt is a great story teller
growing up in Ireland...
Frank McCourt is a great story teller
Frank McCourt is a super author. It is so easy to imagine these little boys throughout the whole story.
Very well written and very moving.
Soooooooooo Funny yet sad
Growing up in Ireland in the first half of the 20th century
Yikes! I wanted to avert my eyes and not gawk at this "traffic accident on the side of the road" but morbid curiosity won out and I'm ultimately glad it did.
Really an excellent memoir by a fine writer. Will evoke all the horrors of the slums of New York and Limerick. Follow this with 'Tis.
Memoir of Frank McCourt who grew up in an Irish slum.
Both funny and heart-wrenching.
Both funny and heart-wrenching.
thoroughly enjoyed this book. very interesting memoir of the childhood of Frank McCourt, very insightful.
I love his writing & wish his books were even longer.
I read this book after seeing the movie and enjoyed the book much better. It was a little slow at the start but was a good read.
One of the best books I have ever read
Good story, but sad.
A most excellent biography. Worthy of all the praise.
AN EXCELLENT BOOK I DON'T USUALLY LIKE BIOGRAPHIES BUT THIS AN WAS GREAT
What an amazing look into this man's life, growing up in Ireland poor. Simply an excellent read. Now I need to look for his other books!!!
One of the best books I have ever read!!!
This is a great book, very moving and really puts you into the story. I loved the book.
Don't understand how this book became a bestseller.
Every once in while, a lucky reader comes across a book that makes an indelible impression, a book you immediately want to share with everyone around you.l..Frank McCourt's life, and his searing telling of it revelas all we need to know about being human. Linnea Lannon, Detroit Free Press.
I loved this book. It is funny and sad all at the same time. I can't wait to read part 2, "Tis".
Have never forgotten how the author described the way people were treated with "casual cruelty" - sad sad sad.
I loved this story! If you're even a wee-bit Irish you'll love it too!
Enjoyable reading.
What a great story! This is a must read!
I want more! An amazing story of survival written beautifully. You can almost hear a melodious Irish voice. I will now go for the audiobook to really hear his voice!
wow. This is one of our favorite books. This is a must read
i really liked this book. It is Worth reading.What a life Frank Mccourt had.I loved reading all about his life.It makes you count your blessings.
This is literally my favorite book ever. Yes, it is very sad, but it is extremely touching and very inspirational. McCourt succeeds in seeing beyond the awful events of his childhood and tells his stories in a humorous and light-hearted way, in spite of the content. I've read this memoir multiple times and I never cease to enjoy it.
Excellent story told by a preteen boy in a poor town in Ireland. He talks about his poor family, how they live and get food, he talks about the church and the presence they have in Ireland, he talks about his odd jobs. It is an honest memoir of a young boy who is lost and trying to figure out life and what to do with his. I liked learning about the reality of the culture of a small Ireland town. This book is definately worth reading.
Excellent book. I would recommend this to anyone.
interesting story about a childhood in poverty in pre-WWII Ireland.
A classic. So well written. His best. What a story. Don't miss.
Frank McCourt is an awesome writer! He holds your interest w/ every page. I highly recommend all of his books!
Great read, pretty detailed and may disturb some.
A spellbinding memoir of childhood that includes aching sadness and desperate humor.
Wonderful book. I loved the author's writing style.
Memoir of Frank McCourt's family life while growing up in Ireland. Tragic, sad but uplifting.
Poignant, moving, wonderful. You must read this book.
This was an incredible book, absolutely incredible. I refused to read it for years as I was afraid it would just be way too depressing....well, I got brave & am so grateful I didn't continue denying this book. It is unfathomably sad in parts yet never despairing & what I loved the most was just when I thought I couldn't take anymore nor cry any harder -- the next instant I'm laughing so hard that I'm still crying.
Angela's Ashes is very well written and is a perfect balance of all the good and bad traits found in the human being.
Angela's Ashes is very well written and is a perfect balance of all the good and bad traits found in the human being.
This was written as a child thinks so was a very interesting read!!!
very good, very sad,very memorable.
Great book. Funny and forgiving.
This book is excellent and a National Bestseller. I just finished McCourt's newest, Teacherman and loved it too.
Excellent autobiography of the author, Frank McCourt and his family and their struggles living in poverty in Ireland during the 1930'a and early 40's. This book won the Pulitzer Prize. Published 1996 and 1999.
It started off a little slow, but the initial struggle is worth it. McCourt does a wonderful job describing his life in the 1930s. His descriptive passages make you feel like you are there, experiencing life with him.
This is a very thought-provoking book about growing up in an Irish family in extreme poverty. Being a child of Irish immigrants myself, it was quite an eye opener.
Very good book. Draws you right into the story.
Frank McCourt's storytelling abilities are superb. I was caught up in his life--felt his pain, his frustration, his joy, and enjoyed his humor.
This was a good book about a time in life where things were so different from what we know now. I really enjoyed this book.
It's amazing that McCourt survived the childhood described in this book. He is a wonderful storyteller...
The book that started McCourt's rise to fame.
This is the only book by this author that I found gripping. I rushed out to get the sequel ('Tis) but it fell flat for me. This one, however, was captivating. I couldn't stop reading it. It was so fantastic. All the "hype" was on-target.
One of the most depressing novels I've ever read. I enjoyed it, if you could use that word on such a downer of a book, but I had to take a break every so often to make sure I didn't get too morose and not want to finish.
This is my second copy of this book. The first, I wore out lending to friends and family. A must read!
One of the most powerful books I have read. Its amazing to think that despite his horrible childhood Frank McCourt not only survived but accomplished all he has! This is even better to listen to on audio because Frank narrates it himself and listening to him is mesmerizing!
I didn't like the book at all. It was really a disappointment.
Excellent but sad. I was very moved.
People raved about this book. I found it very depressing. I didn't see the humor in people's suffering. Portions of the book were entertaining but I found myself looking forward to the end.
Angela's Ashes is an epic memoir of poverty, sadness and determination.
Gripping, heart-wrenching true story!
Charming, tender, heartwarming. Loved every word!
A beautiful memoir.
Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood," writes Frank McCourt in Angela's Ashes. "Worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood." Welcome, then, to the pinnacle of the miserable Irish Catholic childhood. Born in Brooklyn in 1930 to recent Irish immigrants Malachy and Angela McCourt, Frank grew up in Limerick after his parents returned to Ireland because of poor prospects in America. It turns out that prospects weren't so great back in the old country either--not with Malachy for a father. A chronically unemployed and nearly unemployable alcoholic, he appears to be the model on which many of our more insulting cliches about drunken Irish manhood are based. Mix in abject poverty and frequent death and illness and you have all the makings of a truly difficult early life. Fortunately, in McCourt's able hands it also has all the makings for a compelling memoir.
Interesting look at how the poorest people of Ireland lived. Personal narrative, a little depressing.
This book was great. The prose is simple yet powerful. I devoured this book!
If you get the chance listen to Frank McCourt read this, his own story. The combination of this beautiful, funny and sad story all told in his own voice is one of the BEST audio "reads" ever!
This book was recommended to me from my English Professor. It is really sad the conditions these people have to live in, but a very good book.
I enjoyed this book very much. A quick read as the writer keeps you wanting to find out what happens next in his up and down life as a young boy.
Really give you a chance to appreciate the things in life that we take for granted like, flush toilets, and apples.
Really give you a chance to appreciate the things in life that we take for granted like, flush toilets, and apples.
Great book! Much better than the movie, so I'd recommend reading it. Story about growing up in Ireland and being poor.
I loved this book. Dreadfully sad, and yet McCourt's humor sustains you throughout. What an amazing life he led.
"When I look back on my childhood I wonder how I managed to survive at all. It was, of course, a miserable childhood: the happy childhood is hardly worth your while. Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood, and worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood."
So begins the luminous memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy-- exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling-- does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.
Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors--yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.
Angela's Ashes, imbued on every page with Frank McCourt's astounding humor and compassion, is a glorious book that bears all the marks of a classic.
So begins the luminous memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy-- exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling-- does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.
Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors--yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.
Angela's Ashes, imbued on every page with Frank McCourt's astounding humor and compassion, is a glorious book that bears all the marks of a classic.
Great Book! The motion picture was quite faithful to the book, but not as entertaining. You will laugh, and cry, and love the McCourt family.
This was a wonderful book, so moving and sad. I really enjoyed!!
Wonderful writing about a boyhood in impoverished Ireland. Had me so enthralled, I even dreamt about it.
Super read. Abject poverty of an Irish family and yet at least one member of the family rises above it, using it as a vehicle to attain reputation as an author!
Loved this memoir of a poor Irish family growing up in Ireland with an alcoholic father.
I have this book too. And after I read it I didn't want to give it up either. It would definitely be the book to reread. Frank McCourt is an amazing writer. I also read his other two books. Won't give them up either.
Frank MC Court was born in NY from an Irish Immigrant. He tell a story of how the grow up poor during the Great Depression Era. He talks about his struggle in school, religion, how they didn't have money for food and clothes. His father is a alcoholic. He lost a sister and twin brothers. He share his humor of his life with singing and poetic.
This book was good but had some sad parts.
Tearjerker, slice of history
World famous story of a courageous little girl who wins the hearts of many everyday. Hopes dreams and ambitions are never lost for Angela; they all live on because of this book about Angela and her struggles while living a confined life of damnation.
Creative story telling of a true story about a little Irish girl who's boundless zeal for life, despite terrible tragedies and against all odds,
will make an indelible impression on your heart as it has everyone whose lucky enough to read this memoir.
The movie made from this now famous literary contribution to literature which continues to serve as a spellbinding example of life's self- perpetuating power and the resiliency of human spirit in children, strikes an aching sadness with equally desperate nerves of humo,as a profound work of lasting beauty. You'll be glad you've invested in reading this story!
Creative story telling of a true story about a little Irish girl who's boundless zeal for life, despite terrible tragedies and against all odds,
will make an indelible impression on your heart as it has everyone whose lucky enough to read this memoir.
The movie made from this now famous literary contribution to literature which continues to serve as a spellbinding example of life's self- perpetuating power and the resiliency of human spirit in children, strikes an aching sadness with equally desperate nerves of humo,as a profound work of lasting beauty. You'll be glad you've invested in reading this story!
FROM THE PUBLISHER
"When I look back on my childhood I wonder how I managed to survive at all. It was, of course, a miserable childhood: the happy childhood is hardly worth your while. Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood, and worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood."
So begins the luminous memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy -- exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling -- does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.
Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors -- yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.
Angela's Ashes, imbued on every page with Frank McCourt's astounding humor and compassion, is a glorious book that bears all the marks of a classic.
"When I look back on my childhood I wonder how I managed to survive at all. It was, of course, a miserable childhood: the happy childhood is hardly worth your while. Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood, and worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood."
So begins the luminous memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy -- exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling -- does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.
Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors -- yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.
Angela's Ashes, imbued on every page with Frank McCourt's astounding humor and compassion, is a glorious book that bears all the marks of a classic.
Excellent story told by a preteen boy in a poor town in Ireland. He talks about his poor family, how they live and get food, he talks about the church and the presence they have in Ireland, he talks about his odd jobs. It is an honest memoir of a young boy who is lost and trying to figure out life and what to do with his. I liked learning about the reality of the culture of a small Ireland town. This book is definately worth reading.
Depressing, but very good read.
Not a review because I never finished, however the first few chapters are so sad that I could not finish. I understand the story and have people explain it to me, but I could not finish because I could not read any more sadness.
Highly readable memoir of Ireland. This book is stunning in its clarity and drama, told by the winner of the Pulitzer Prize. The movie of the same name was based on this book. I found this memoir to be a fantastic read.
I would give it a rating of 10 because it won a Pulitzer, but I haven't read it. It was my wife's book; I believed she enjoyed it. A memoir of a young man growing up in Ireland.
a little slow in the beginning...
Good history. Drags on however, not enough happy ending.
A heartbreaking memoir of an Irish childhood.
WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE "THE POWER OF THIS MEMOIR IS THAT IT MAKES YOU BELIEVE THE CLAIM THAT DESPITE THE RAGS,HUNGER AND PAIN, LOVE AND STRENGTH SO COME OUT OF MISERY,,,,,,,"
Frank McCourts life, and his searing telling of it, reveal all we need to know about human"-Detroit Free Press
Loved this book. Can't wait for the next one ('Tis) to arrive.
Very intense!!
Good book...
Wonderful book. Highly recommended
beginning-excellent story
The New York Times Best Seller and winner of the Pulitzer Prize.
If you like to read how people grow up in other countries this book is a good one. It is about a poor part of ireland and how a child grew up and what his family had to endure.
Almost a classic...such a great book, I just realized I have two copies!
Very moving and captivating story.
" A monument to the self-perpetuation power of the human spirit...An accomplished, authoritative, and shimmering example of the memoririst's art."...The Miami Herald
Horrible. I couldn't get past the first chapter, because the image of the father dropping his son was so awful. I can't get it out of my head and I wish I had never picked this book up.
sad story.
"Every once in a while, a lucky reader comes across a book that makes an indelible impression , a book you immediattely want to share with everyone around you... Frank McCourt's life, and his searing telling of it, reveal all we need to know about being human"
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize
A very good book.
good book recommended by oprah!!
Read my online review at YOUR ARE WHAT YOU READ:
http://youarewhatyouread2.blogspot.com/2006/03/2-angelas-ashes-by-frank-mccourt.html
http://youarewhatyouread2.blogspot.com/2006/03/2-angelas-ashes-by-frank-mccourt.html
Nice story -
"When I look back on my childhood I wonder how I managed to survive at all. It was, of course, a miserable childhood: the happy childhood is hardly worth your while. Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood, and worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood."
So begins the luminous memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy--exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling--does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.
Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors--yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.
So begins the luminous memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy--exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling--does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.
Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors--yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.
Very good and entertaining!
Brilliant
Fabulous book....
This book is a paperback edition
