Discover books similar to "A Star Called Henry"

Roddy Doyle

A Star Called Henry

3.83

"A Star Called Henry" by Roddy Doyle is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Henry Smart, a young man growing up in Dublin during the early 20th century. The novel spans a period of significant political and social change in Ireland, including the Easter Rising, the War of Independence, and the Irish Civil War. The novel begins with Henry's birth in the slums of Dublin, where he is quickly orphaned and left to fend for himself on the streets. Through a combination of luck, cunning, and sheer determination, Henry rises through the ranks of the Irish Republican Army and becomes a key player in the fight for Irish independence. Doyle's writing is vivid and engaging, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and smells of Dublin during this turbulent period. The novel is also notable for its complex and nuanced portrayal of Henry, who is at once a hero and a anti-hero. While he is fiercely loyal to the cause of Irish independence, he is also capable of great violence and betrayal. One of the strengths of "A Star Called Henry" is its exploration of the personal and political dimensions of the Irish struggle for independence. Through Henry's experiences, Doyle shows how the fight for freedom is not just a matter of ideology, but also a deeply personal struggle for survival, identity, and belonging. Overall, "A Star Called Henry" is a powerful and moving novel that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on a pivotal moment in Irish history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Irish literature, history, or the human condition...

List of books similar to "A Star Called Henry":

Roddy Doyle

The Commitments

If you enjoyed the Irish setting and witty dialogue in 'A Star Called Henry,', you'll love 'The Commitments' by the same author. This book tells the story of a group of working-class Dubliners who come together to form a soul band, and the trials and tribulations they face along the way. Fans of Doyle's signature humor and realistic characters will not be disappointed.

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Roddy Doyle

Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha

For those who appreciated the coming-of-age elements in 'A Star Called Henry,' 'Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha' is a must-read. This novel follows the daily life of a young boy growing up in Ireland in the 1960s, and the struggles he faces as he navigates the complex world around him. Doyle's vivid descriptions and relatable characters make this a standout choice for fans of 'A Star Called Henry'.

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Anne Enright

The Gathering

If you were moved by the family dynamics in 'A Star Called Henry,' you'll be drawn into 'The Gathering' by Anne Enright. This novel tells the story of a large Irish family gathering for the funeral of one of their own, and the secrets and tensions that arise as they come together. Enright's beautiful prose and deep exploration of family relationships make this a great choice for fans of Doyle's work.

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Sebastian Barry

The Secret Scripture

If you were intrigued by the exploration of identity and memory in 'A Star Called Henry,' 'The Secret Scripture' by Sebastian Barry is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a woman who has spent most of her life in a mental institution, and the secrets she reveals through her memoirs. Barry's beautiful prose and deep exploration of the human psyche make this a standout choice for fans of Doyle's work.

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Roddy Doyle

The Snapper

For those who loved the humor and relatable characters in 'A Star Called Henry,' 'The Snapper' is a great pick. This novel tells the story of a young woman who becomes pregnant out of wedlock in 1980s Dublin, and the challenges she faces as she tries to come to terms with her situation. Doyle's signature wit and humor make this a delightful read for fans of his work.

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John Banville

The Book of Evidence

If you were intrigued by the complex characters and moral dilemmas in 'A Star Called Henry,' 'The Book of Evidence' by John Banville is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a man who has committed a brutal crime, and the psychological journey he goes on as he reflects on his life and the choices he has made. Banville's beautiful prose and deep exploration of the human condition make this a standout choice for fans of Doyle's work.

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Patrick McCabe

The Butcher Boy

If you were intrigued by the darker elements of 'A Star Called Henry,' 'The Butcher Boy' by Patrick McCabe is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a young boy growing up in Ireland in the 1960s, and the descent into madness he experiences as he grapples with the traumas of his past. McCabe's beautiful prose and deep exploration of the human psyche make this a standout choice for fans of Doyle's work.

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James Joyce

The Dead

For those who appreciated the literary style and historical setting of 'A Star Called Henry,' 'The Dead' by James Joyce is a must-read. This short story is set at a party in Dublin in the early 20th century, and explores the themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Joyce's beautiful prose and deep exploration of the human condition make this a standout choice for fans of Doyle's work.

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John Boyne

The Heart's Invisible Furies

If you were moved by the themes of identity and self-discovery in 'A Star Called Henry,' 'The Heart's Invisible Furies' by John Boyne is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a gay man growing up in Ireland in the mid-20th century, and the challenges he faces as he tries to come to terms with his identity and find his place in the world. Boyne's beautiful prose and deep exploration of the human condition make this a standout choice for fans of Doyle's work.

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