tani reviewed on
Tynan, now a world-famous Irish tenor, was born with severe deformities of the feet and leg, but went on to defy the doctors and not only walk on his own, but become a champion equestrian. When a motorcycle accident made it necessary for both his legs to be amputated below the knee, he got artificial limbs and kept right on. He intended to become a medical doctor and got a degree from Trinity College, but then won a BBC TV talent contest and turned to studying opera. Four years later he had a recording contract.
I was surprised to learn that he had not set out to be a singer and that his musical career is still so young. Unfortunately, except for telling us in the Epilogue how he sang at Yankee Stadium in New York as part of a memorial for the 9/11 victims, he stopped short of writing about his life after becoming one of "The Irish Tenors." Maybe he is saving that for a sequel.
I won't say that the writing is superb, but the story is moving and inspiring, and anyone who enjoys Tynan's singing or needs a shot of encouragement should read this book. The blurb on the back cover calls it "a heart-warmer, moving, and really courageous," and I would like to add, "humorous," too.
I was surprised to learn that he had not set out to be a singer and that his musical career is still so young. Unfortunately, except for telling us in the Epilogue how he sang at Yankee Stadium in New York as part of a memorial for the 9/11 victims, he stopped short of writing about his life after becoming one of "The Irish Tenors." Maybe he is saving that for a sequel.
I won't say that the writing is superb, but the story is moving and inspiring, and anyone who enjoys Tynan's singing or needs a shot of encouragement should read this book. The blurb on the back cover calls it "a heart-warmer, moving, and really courageous," and I would like to add, "humorous," too.
