Review: Complex and Rewarding Read
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 11 2, 2013
Complex and rewarding work from a true storyteller. A real gem of a novel, this book celebrates the human spirit's ability to triumph through belief and creativity. Fionn is a charismatic character that I related to a lot. The author captures the daydreamy quality of childhood very well.  He lives in Dublin with his mother and sister and was abandoned by his father. The complex way we see his grandfather --through Fionn's loving eyes is only part of the story, but an important one, because the way his grandfather believes in Fionne is life-defining and a real reminder that we can positively impact others by having faith in them.Fionn's life in Ireland is harrowing in many ways, and the visceral impact of that is well told. Having President Kennedy enter the story was a brilliant and captivating premise. As the personification of the better aspects of the American Dream coming back to visit his ancestral homeland, by focusing on President Kennedy Fionn is able to do the same in a sense...tap into and reclaim inspiration and the best aspects of his family as he find his way to his own internal homecoming by chasing after Kennedy. It's a coming of age story plus a lot more.Fantastic plot, themes and characters mark this novel, and I'd highly recommend it as a good read that will leave you feeling like you understand yourself, your childhood and how to connect with others a little better.