Do most people remember the circumstances of their first
time reading a book that changed their lives? I read this one on a houseboat vacation
in northern Saskatchewan, and despite the spectacular scenery and astonishing
late-summer weather, I was captivated by this book.
A Star Called Henry is a phenomenally engaging retelling of
recent Irish history, narrated by
one of the most outrageous and compelling characters in modern fiction. I adore
Henry Smart! Absolutely larger than life, he is a prodigious liar, a smashing ladies'
man, a dubious hero, and the owner of an unforgettable narrative style. Once
you've met Henry, you will never forget him — and you may fall in love with him.
Some of my favourite literature endures for me because of
the characters. As they do for many people, memorable characters — like Samuel Hamilton
in East of Eden or Amanda Ziller in Another Roadside Attraction — feel real
to me, like people I've known. Henry Smart is someone I'd likely be terrified
to meet but would love to know. He is surrounded by other quirky and fierce personalities that make him shine all the brighter. And this book has even more: romance, adventure, tragedy, history... It is a rollicking novel that will make you laugh aloud and may move you to tears.
This book changed my life with its reach, its
shimmer, and its point of view. It inspired me to remember my love of reading, writing,
and learning. And perhaps to ride my bicycle more often.
If you enjoy A Star Called Henry, there are two more books
featuring Henry Smart: Oh, Play That Thing! and The Dead Republic (another book
I loved, although it didn't make my five-star list). I hope you'll read them
all.
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