Helpful Score: 1
This book was based on a project wherein Mr. Doyle wrote the sections of each story in 800-word monthly installments "for a multicultural newspaper, Metro Eireann, published in Dublin by two Nigerian journalists". Mind you, Ireland used to produce immigrants, not recruit them. I've heard the Irish referred to by Continental Europeans in the same manner you might here an Texan speak about Mexicans. Mr. Doyle, in his brilliant dialogue that slices through to the truth of the vignette, allows the reader to experience the confusions and partial understanding of the characters. His stories are about relationships or the lack of them, while the setting is left for you to fill in with your own crayons. If you like the shorter, more expressionist style, this book is for you. If you prefer full floral description of details, you will hate this book. It was one of the best books I read last year.
