In this collection of twelve dark, unerring and surprising short stories, John Boyne explores the extremities of the human condition in all its brilliance and brutality. The secrets we keep and the ways in which they shape us, the impossibility of shared loss, the lengths we will go to in order to protect our families and the distance we will run to protect ourselves. Drawing on a host of enthralling characters âe" a farmer, a cuckold and a teenager exploring his sexuality; good parents, bad parents, writers and soldiers; a student, a rent boy and a hitman âe" Boyne examines the hopeful and the damaged without prejudice or judgement. This, his first collection of short stories, is some of John Boyneâe(tm)s finest writing to date. It includes âe~Rest Dayâe(tm) which won the 2015 Writing.ie Short Story of the Year award in Ireland.
John Boyne
John Boyne is an Irish author known for his powerful storytelling and compelling characters. His most notable works include "The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas," a poignant novel set during the Holocaust, and "The Heart's Invisible Furies," a sweeping epic following the life of an Irish gay man.
Boyne's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, historical accuracy, and exploration of complex moral themes. He has made significant contributions to literature by shedding light on important historical events and societal issues, while also creating unforgettable characters that resonate with readers.
"The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas" is perhaps Boyne's most famous work, captivating readers with its heartbreaking tale of friendship across enemy lines. This novel has had a profound impact on the literary genre of historical fiction, cementing Boyne's reputation as a master storyteller.