Danny Boy

My Weekly Books of 2023 choice 'A terrific, edge-of-the-seat story' Maggie Gee 'As evocative as Graham Green's iconic Brighton Rock' Amazon reviewer 'Fantastic storytelling' Amazon reviewer 'Gripping story - engaging, entertaining, and moving. A terrific read' Amazon reviewer
On a council estate in Pimlico, Danny Byrne has grown up. He is pursuing A-levels and university, while his friends are concentrating on girls, trading banter, and putting their friendships to the test. When things turn sinister, Danny must confront his conscience and be pushed to his breaking point. He must figure out what is important to become the kind of man he wants to be.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 05 January 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Danny Boy is a heartwarming and nostalgic novel that has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Set on a sprawling council estate in Pimlico, the story follows the lives of four young boys: Danny, Dodds, Crockett, and Nobby. Growing up together, they navigate the challenges of adolescence, focusing on girls, trading banter, and testing the strength of their friendships. As the long summer unfolds, the boys engage in various adventures and experiences, from romantic pursuits to confrontations with the darker aspects of life.

Danny, the protagonist, is a bright and aspirational young man who dreams of a better future. He is determined to pursue his education and escape the cycle of poverty that surrounds him. However, his path is not without obstacles, as he faces challenges both at home and at school. Danny must confront his own demons and make difficult choices that will shape his future.

Dodds, Danny's best friend, is a loyal and supportive character who follows in his father's footsteps and enters the family butchers business. Dodds is passionate about his work and takes pride in providing for his family. However, he struggles with the expectations of his family and the pressure to live up to their legacy.

Crockett, another friend, is a free-spirited and adventurous soul who is always seeking new opportunities. He is a natural sailor and dreams of traveling the world. Crockett's determination and resilience make him a valuable member of the group, but his impulsive nature sometimes leads him into trouble.

Nobby, on the other hand, is a troubled young man who is flirting with drugs and disaster. He is drawn to the darker side of life and struggles to find his place in the world. Nobby's journey is filled with pain and self-destruction, but he ultimately finds hope and redemption.

The novel beautifully captures the essence of childhood and the complexities of growing up. Barry Walsh's writing is filled with vivid descriptions and heartfelt moments that bring the characters to life. The story is filled with humor, tragedy, and moments of pure joy, making it a truly engaging and unforgettable read.

Praise for Danny Boy:

My Weekly Books of 2023 choice:
"A terrific, edge-of-the-seat story ... whose ending had me in the right kind of tears."
- Maggie Gee, author of "The Water Dancer"

As evocative as Graham Green's iconic Brighton Rock.
- Amazon reviewer

Fantastic storytelling.
- Amazon reviewer

A terrific read.
- Amazon reviewer

Barry Walsh is a talented writer who has mastered the art of evoking nostalgia and capturing the essence of childhood. His novels are known for their heartfelt characters and engaging storytelling, and Danny Boy is no exception.

The novel is set in the 1980s, a time of change and transition in British society. The council estate where the boys live is a vibrant and diverse community, filled with different cultures and backgrounds. The boys' friendships are tested as they navigate the challenges of adolescence and the pressures of adulthood.

One of the strengths of Danny Boy is its portrayal of the characters. Each character is fully realized and relatable, with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The boys' relationships are complex and nuanced, with moments of tenderness and moments of conflict. The reader can truly empathize with their struggles and triumphs.

The writing style of Barry Walsh is elegant and evocative, with a keen eye for detail. The novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the council estate, the characters' homes, and the surrounding environment. The reader is transported back to the 1980s and feels a sense of nostalgia for a time that is long gone.

Another notable aspect of Danny Boy is its exploration of themes of love, friendship, and family. The boys' relationships with their parents, siblings, and romantic interests are intricately woven into the story, and the reader is left with a sense of hope and optimism for their future.

In conclusion, Danny Boy is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story and appreciates the power of nostalgia. Barry Walsh's writing is masterful, and the characters are unforgettable. The novel is a beautiful portrayal of childhood and the challenges of growing up, and it will leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 130 x 196 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008518615