39 pages • 1 hour read
A Star Called Henry
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Dublin, Ireland • 1910s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Star Called Henry by Roddy Doyle follows the tumultuous life of Henry Smart, a boy from the working-class slums of Dublin born around the turn of the 20th century. The novel charts Henry's experiences through significant events in Irish history, particularly focusing on the 1916 Easter Rising and the fight for Irish independence, intertwining fictional narrative with real historical figures and events. The book features themes of violence, exploitation, and class struggle.
Gritty
Dark
Bittersweet
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
10,607 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Roddy Doyle’s A Star Called Henry receives praise for its vivid portrayal of early 20th-century Ireland and its compelling protagonist, Henry Smart. Reviews commend Doyle’s energetic writing and historical detail. However, some critics note occasional plot pacing issues and a lack of emotional depth in character development. Overall, it is an ambitious and engaging read.
Who Should Read A Star Called Henry?
Fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories, especially those who appreciate gritty, vivid narratives like Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt or Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha by Roddy Doyle, will enjoy A Star Called Henry. This novel immerses readers in early 20th-century Dublin through the eyes of its young, resilient protagonist.
10,607 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
400
Novel • Fiction
Dublin, Ireland • 1910s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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