I originally read Angela’s Ashes more than 10 years ago. I think it was around 1997, or thereabouts. I only remember that I could hardly put it down. If you are unfamiliar with the story, it is a memoir by Frank McCourt. It tells the story of his childhood in Limerick, Ireland. Although Mr. McCourt was born in the United States, his parents moved back to Ireland when he was just a baby. I just finished listening to it on the audio CD. It is just spellbinding, made even more so, because it is read by the author. The story itself is at turns heart-breaking, funny and inspiring. I cannot begin to tell you how sad it truly is, but, the way he puts things, it is also so inspiring. That someone could come out of that kind of adversity, and not only live to tell about it, but become a huge success, boggles the mind.
I was fortunate enough to see Frank McCourt at Laxson Auditorium in 2000. He was such a wonderful storyteller and speaker. He passed away in 2009 but he left a rich legacy in his stories. After Angela’s Ashes his story continues, first in ‘Tis and then ending with Teacher Man. I would highly recommend all his books, but Angela’s Ashes [for me] is by far the best. Do yourself a favor and let this master storyteller take you away to another place and time..You will most certainly count your many blessings after that!
posted by, Estel