Dead Man Talking by Roddy DoyleMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Pat had been best friends with Joe Murphy since they were kids. But years ago they had a fight. A big one, and they haven’t spoken since --- till the day before Joe’s funeral.
What? On the day before his funeral Joe would be dead, wouldn’t he?
Yes, he would…
Roddy Doyle’s first book for the Quick Reads programme to support adult literacy is fast, funny and just a tiny bit spooky.
This has been published as part of Quick Reads programme. These are a series of short books from a range of different authors to encourage literacy love among adults. Personally I love the time of year they pop up, I have found many authors I would never have considered before through the programme and they are perfect if you don't have a lot of 'me' time. Personally I read the book in one sitting.
I have never read a book by Doyle so had no idea what to expect. From reading the blurb it really made me intrigued and I couldn't wait to start it. This short story was very easy to read, it had incredibly short chapters, perfect for when you need to pop the kettle on or break off another square of Galaxy.
It is written in the first person and completely through narrative, the pace is very good and there is little opportunity for a new reader to become fed up or lost in the text.
The story is about Pat, he has discovered his best friend Joe has died and he has been invited to the funeral, this seems a little odd to Pat as he had a big falling out a few years ago and have not spoken since. Pat decides to go to the funeral and the wake with his wife. This brings up a lot of emotions for Pat and brings back unhappier times. Pat is not sure how to cope with everything he is discovering that day.
Although the story is very short, so much happens in it. As the reader I felt unsure at times what was going on and it was only when I was very near the end did I begin to suss out what was happening. It was a good short read, however one that took me out of my comfort zone. I have never read a book like this and actually had mixed feeling about it. I was very unsure when reading it and since I have finished I am still not quite sure what I feel about this book.
This is only on a personal note and I have heard that this short story has the Doyle trademarks and that it is another great story by him, so I am sure if you like Doyle's previous works this will also be one that you enjoy.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
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