Elizabeth Ann Tierney

So entertaining and indeed gripping! I read this as an e-book and could not put it down. Unusual for me as I have a short attention-span. Takes you back to the times/places most informatively, especially but not only for someone who knows the area well. The authors take an Insightful approach throughout, concerning the behaviours of Joe's kindred, his peers, neighbours and the wider community. Joe is excellently portrayed as a one-off, special person with an unusual upbringing, who overcame the difficulties that beset him and made good against considerable odds. There is sadness in some chapters - no spoilers - and one is forgiven a tear or two along the way; but the fact that the authors balance humour and poignancy so astutely makes this book an excellent must-read.