Fanatic Heart: 'A grand master of historical fiction.' Mail on Sunday

In Fanatic Heart, Thomas Keneally explores the conflicts at the center of Irish independence, following the controversial figure of John Mitchel. Through his journey to America, Mitchel faces a terrible paradox as he fights to save lives while betraying the very people he is trying to protect.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2023
Publisher: Faber & Faber

In the summer of 1847, as the people of Ireland grappled with the devastating effects of famine, John Mitchel, a lawyer, journalist, activist, and politician, found himself deeply compelled to act. The sight of countless hollowed faces and the silence of the once-liquid Irish tongues haunted him. Driven by a fierce sense of disgust at the injustice, Mitchel dedicated himself to fighting for the destitute, the starving, and the forgotten. His journey took him across the Atlantic to America, a land of promise, where he hoped to find a solution to the crisis. However, his odyssey would lead him into a terrible paradox. As he worked tirelessly to save lives, he began to question whether his actions would betray the very people he sought to protect.

In his novel "Fanatic Heart," Booker Prize winner Thomas Keneally delves into the life and legacy of John Mitchel, exploring the complex conflicts at the heart of his remarkable story. Keneally, known for his exceptional writing skills, brings to life the characters in vivid detail, capturing the tenderness and pathos of their experiences. Through his masterful storytelling, he succeeds in bringing to life a period in history that has often been overlooked or misunderstood.

Mitchel's journey was marked by a fierce determination to overcome the obstacles he faced. He became a vocal advocate for Irish independence, using his platform as a journalist and politician to raise awareness about the plight of his countrymen. His writings and speeches were filled with passion and eloquence, as he called for justice and equality for the Irish people.

However, Mitchel's activism also led him into conflict with the British authorities. He was arrested and imprisoned multiple times for his political activities, and his life was constantly threatened. Despite these challenges, Mitchel remained unwavering in his commitment to his cause.

In "Fanatic Heart," Keneally explores the paradoxical nature of Mitchel's legacy. On the one hand, he is revered as a hero for his selfless dedication to the cause of Irish independence. On the other hand, he is criticized for his willingness to compromise with the British government, which some saw as betraying the principles of his cause.

Keneally's portrayal of Mitchel is nuanced and complex, showing him as a man driven by a deep sense of empathy and compassion for his fellow man. He is flawed, but his intentions are always pure, and he believes that his actions can make a difference in the lives of those he serves.

Through the character of Mitchel, Keneally raises important questions about the nature of sacrifice and the price of freedom. He explores the complexities of political activism and the challenges faced by those who seek to change the world. "Fanatic Heart" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on a significant period in Irish history and the enduring legacy of John Mitchel.

In conclusion, Thomas Keneally's "Fanatic Heart" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, and the human spirit. Through his masterful storytelling, Keneally brings to life the complex and controversial figure of John Mitchel, exploring the conflicts at the heart of his remarkable legacy. The novel raises important questions about sacrifice, freedom, and the price of political activism, and it serves as a reminder of the power of one person's determination to make a difference in the world.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571387953
Edition number: Main