Athlone-born writer John Broderick was an astringent commentator on the rapidly shifting mores of Ireland from the 1950s to the 1980s. Better known for his novels, he was also a prolific reviewer and essayist. This new collection brings together a fascinating and eclectic selection of his book reviews and other journalism, as well as some previously unpublished short fiction.

Between 1956 and 1988 Broderick produced over three hundred review columns on a wide range of books and topics. A carefully chosen selection of these include his thoughts on Francis Stuart, Lee Dunne, Padraic Fallon, Oscar Wilde, Kate O’Brien and Liam O’Flaherty, among others. His journalism also gave him space to reflect on other preoccupations, such as Athlone, Irish society, the Church, books, writers and human nature. It allowed him freedom to write humorously, seriously, sometimes pessimistically, even savagely. His writings are of increasing relevance and interest in today’s Ireland.

‘Reading these pages of Broderick’s journalism and his unpublished stories is a very moving experience.’ – Colm Tóibín

‘John Broderick explores frustrated life, soured ideals and the pattern of dark religious and anti-religious stupidity in an Irish town…he throws a light of truth and understanding into very dark holes in the Irish spirit… he is one determined and melancholy kind of realist.’ – Kate O’Brien

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

John Broderick (1924-89) was born in Athlone, County Westmeath, and died in Bath, England. He worked as a journalist and was author of numerous works including The Pilgrimage (1961), An Apology for Roses (1973), The Pride of Summer (1976), London Irish (1979) and The Trial of Father Dillingham (1982). Read more here.

Madeline Kingston was born in County Fermanagh and graduated from Trinity College, Dublin in 1967. She is the author of Something in the Head: The Life and Work of John Broderick, published by The Lilliput Press in 2004.