Disappointing. There is a lot of drinking in this. A lot. Something that I have a tough time relating to, the drinking itself and the bragging about it. Or admitting to it, but to keep doing it. It's okay, but his other book, Death Need Not Be Fatal (I believe that's right) is so much better. ( )

Hm. I SO wanted to LOVE this book. I love Malachy's style, wit and way with words. He's a talented writer, obviously intelligent and witty. I enjoyed some parts...when they story wasn't heavily bogged down with alcohol/drunken focus. I get the point that he was in deep as an alcoholic. I got it over and over. At first it was part of the story but after a bit it seemed to take over all his stories. Maybe that is the point. That someday he'd travel while sober. Someday he'd make a life that wasn't drowned in his favored alcoholic beverages, or whatever he could get his hands on if that wasn't available. I'd rather read about the someday. Or at least that his memory had more to it than the drink. I do have to give him credit for opening my eyes to a couple historical atrocities that were not on my radar...and I will read his other book if it crosses my path, if for nothing more than his style with words. ( )

rabck from dvg; I didn't realize Frank McCourt had a brother until I read this book. Engaging humorous book about some US years of Malachy's life. He was appearing on the tonight show before my time, so I don't remember ever seeing him. ( )

one grows to like McCourt for his honesty and to sympathize with him for the struggle he wages with a mind that he describes as "leaping about like a caged and vicious rodent" whenever he wakes up after a night of drink. ( )

The memoir of struggling actor, effortless drunk, and endless traveler to spectacular ports for often unsavory purposes should probably read as one of the most depressing and unreadable books of its kind. It would if McCourt were not so honest, self-effacing, and unnaturally funny. He is able to transform a downward spiral into a continuous barrage of laughter-inducing anecdotes that still do not shy from truth or lessons along the way. If you want a readable memoir that is not a feast of self pity nor a lightweight read and can offer a good laugh, this is the book. ( )