Patrick McCabe’s The Butcher Boy tells the story of a boy from an impoverished background in rural Ireland. Francie Brady’s troubled home life has a devastating impact on him and he seeks revenge upon those he blames for his misfortunes. The writer shows the frightening deterioration of a young mind and the disastrous consequences of this. The style of writing is difficult to adjust to as it imitates the flow of speech, with little punctuation. Although the central character is clearly troubled, it is difficult to sympathise with him as he focuses all his hatred onto an member of the community. McCabe’s view of ‘gossiping’ rural communities is condemning and not entirely realistic. However, The Butcher Boy is an enjoyable, if distressing, read and Francie is a fictional character who will stay with you even after you have finished the book.

Reviewed by a member of Nenagh Library Book Club