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37 pages 1 hour read

The Spinning Heart

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Donal Ryan

The Spinning Heart

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 2000s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Spinning Heart by Donal Ryan, set in a small Irish village during an economic downturn, explores the repercussions of the collapse on the community, particularly after the disappearance of Pokey Burke, the once-thriving construction boss. Through 21 different viewpoints, the novel delves into themes of unemployment, grief, familial struggles, and societal disconnects, all interwoven around Bobby, a central figure seen variously as a moral pillar and a subject of controversy.

Gritty

Melancholic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

11,666 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Donal Ryan’s The Spinning Heart earns acclaim for its poignant exploration of post-Celtic Tiger Ireland, with a compelling, polyphonic narrative that gives voice to varied, believable characters. Critics praise its lyrical prose and emotional depth, though some note its fragmented structure can be disorienting. Overall, it's a powerful depiction of contemporary Irish struggles.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Spinning Heart?

The ideal reader for Donal Ryan's The Spinning Heart appreciates character-driven narratives set against contemporary issues. They would enjoy the multifaceted perspectives seen in works like Colum McCann's Let the Great World Spin and Roddy Doyle's The Commitments, valuing profound emotional and social exploration.

4.0

11,666 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Bobby Mahon

The central character, formerly a foreman for Pokey Burke, who is perceived by many in town as moral and decent; he is committed to repairing unfinished projects and deeply values his marriage to Triona.

Bobby’s loyal and exceptionally beautiful wife, who sees beneath his exterior and stands by him unwaveringly, with deep faith in his integrity.

A complex character perceived as flirtatious by the townspeople, dealing with personal grief and longing, while her desires for Bobby remain unreciprocated.

Bobby’s childhood friend and Dylan’s father, known as a charming playboy in the village who struggles with depression and desires meaningful connections.

Bobby’s father, known in town as a harsh and critical curmudgeon, whose difficult relationship with Bobby stems from his own unresolved childhood trauma.

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ireland • 2000s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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