Read this back in 2005. I was interested in it b/c I'm currently living in Ireland where DH is from. What a sad and terrible childhood the author had. In some ways things haven't changed. On the outside it looks like a prosperous modern country - but if you need any type of medical treatment or therapy you are out of luck.

This story tugs at your heart. Mr. McCourt's early life was far from ideal, yet he imbues his story with wit and hope - not an easy task when describing such grim circumstances. He is a true optimist.

A classic... but really depressing. Made me never want to be poor.
I couldn't help but hate the father and to a lesser extent, the mother too. It seems like it was almost an act of will to stay so poor for so long. Good on McCourt for getting out.

This book is a favorite of mine. It was a great read, I couldn't put it down. Details of McCourt's childhood are very raw. He writes simply, yet it is captivating. There are many humorous parts and many things that I learned through reading this book. Reading this book made me appreciate what my ancestors in IReland may have went through.

I was foruntaly able to pick this up at a garage sale before it was released in paperback in the u.s. Thank goodness because I absultely love it!