Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Humorous, Realistic, Heartwarming, Candid
- Read it if
- You enjoy character-driven stories about working-class families, Irish humor, and explorations of familial love and societal expectations.
- Skip it if
- You prefer fast-paced plots with high stakes or explicit romance.
The Snapper Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
Sharon's Secret Pregnancy
The novel opens with twenty-year-old Sharon Rabbitte, a working-class Dublin woman, discovering she is pregnant. She is unmarried and still lives at home with her large family in Barrytown. Sharon is initially in denial, trying to ignore her situation. She works at a local grocery store and spends her evenings with friends, trying to maintain normalcy. The news of her pregnancy slowly sinks in, causing her internal turmoil. She is anxious about telling her parents, Jimmy Sr. and Veronica, knowing it will cause a stir in their lively household and the close-knit community.
Breaking the News to the Family
After some hesitation, Sharon finally tells her mother, Veronica, about her pregnancy. Veronica, though initially shocked, reacts with quiet, pragmatic understanding, offering Sharon support. The harder task is telling her father, Jimmy Sr. When Sharon eventually breaks the news to him, Jimmy Sr. is stunned and furious. His initial reaction is disbelief and anger, especially because Sharon refuses to name the father. The news sends a ripple through the entire Rabbitte household, with Sharon's younger siblings reacting with curiosity, confusion, and sometimes inappropriate jokes, reflecting the typical chaos of the Rabbitte family.
The Community's Curiosity
Once Sharon's pregnancy becomes an open secret, the residents of Barrytown are curious about the baby's father. Speculation runs among neighbors, friends, and even family members. People constantly try to get information from Sharon or her family, often through thinly veiled questions or direct inquiries. Sharon, however, remains steadfast in her refusal to name the father, adding to the local gossip and frustration. This communal obsession creates added pressure and scrutiny for Sharon, making her feel constantly observed and judged, even as her family tries to shield her.
Jimmy Sr.'s Struggle with Acceptance
Jimmy Sr.'s initial anger and disappointment persist for some time. He struggles to come to terms with Sharon's unmarried pregnancy, which challenges his traditional views and his perception of his daughter. He frequently tries to get Sharon to reveal the father's name, but she consistently refuses. Over time, his anger evolves into a mix of protectiveness, worry, and a growing sense of responsibility for his daughter and her unborn child. He finds himself defending Sharon against the prying eyes and judgmental whispers of the community, slowly shifting from disapproval to a more supportive stance.
The Father's Identity Revealed (to the reader)
While Sharon maintains her silence to her family and the community, the reader eventually learns the father's identity: George Burgess. George is a married man and the husband of Sharon's friend, Jackie. This revelation explains Sharon's determination to keep his identity a secret, as exposing him would cause a scandal and deeply hurt her friend. The affair and subsequent pregnancy occurred after a drunken night out, and Sharon carries the burden of this secret, understanding the repercussions it would have on multiple lives if it were to come out.
Physical and Emotional Changes
As her pregnancy progresses, Sharon experiences the physical changes and discomforts, from morning sickness to her growing belly. These physical manifestations make it impossible to ignore her condition and bring her closer to the reality of motherhood. Emotionally, she navigates feelings of anxiety about the future, resentment at her situation, but also a growing connection to the life inside her. Her relationship with her body changes, and she faces the practicalities of preparing for a baby, often with the quiet help of her mother and, increasingly, her father.
Jimmy Sr.'s Growing Affection for the Unborn Baby
Despite his initial struggles, Jimmy Sr. develops a tender affection for his unborn grandchild. He starts referring to the baby as 'The Snapper,' a term that becomes a running motif throughout the book. He talks to Sharon's belly, sings to it, and even places his hand on it, feeling the baby kick. This shift marks a change in Jimmy Sr.'s character, showing his capacity for love and acceptance despite his gruff exterior. His growing anticipation for 'The Snapper' becomes a source of humor and heartwarming moments within the family.
Family Dynamics Shift
Sharon's pregnancy changes the Rabbitte family dynamics. While it initially causes friction, particularly with Jimmy Sr., it brings the family closer in many ways. Veronica is a quiet pillar of strength and support for Sharon. The younger siblings, initially bewildered, adjust to the idea, with some showing excitement. Jimmy Sr.'s journey from anger to acceptance is central, and his protectiveness of Sharon and the 'snapper' solidifies his role as the family patriarch, albeit a flawed one. The shared experience strengthens their bonds, despite the ongoing public speculation.
The Birth of Georgina
As Sharon's due date approaches, the excitement and anticipation in the Rabbitte household build. The labor is depicted with Doyle's realism and humor, focusing on the family's anxieties and Jimmy Sr.'s comical attempts to be helpful. Sharon eventually gives birth to a healthy baby girl. She names her Georgina, a subtle nod to the baby's father, George, which only the reader and Sharon are aware of. The birth marks a moment of joy and relief for the entire family, particularly for Jimmy Sr., who is instantly smitten with his new granddaughter, solidifying his full acceptance.
Life with Georgina
Following Georgina's birth, the Rabbitte household adjusts to life with a new baby. Georgina quickly becomes the center of attention, adored by everyone, especially Jimmy Sr., who dotes on her. Sharon embraces her role as a single mother with quiet strength and determination. While the community still buzzes with unanswered questions about Georgina's paternity, the family forms a protective circle around Sharon and the baby. The novel concludes with the Rabbitte family, chaotic and loving as ever, having fully accepted Georgina into their fold, signifying a new beginning and the strength of family bonds.
The Snapper Characters
Sharon Rabbitte
Protagonist
Unmarried twenty-year-old who becomes pregnant and keeps the father's identity a secret.
Sharon is a resilient and independent young woman living in Barrytown. She works in a grocery store and enjoys nights out with her friends. Her pregnancy, and her decision to keep the father's identity a secret, are central to the plot. She faces societal judgment and family pressure with a quiet determination, revealing a deep inner strength. Despite her youth, she takes responsibility for her situation and for her unborn child, navigating the challenges of single motherhood with grace. Her steadfast refusal to name George Burgess highlights her loyalty and her desire to protect others from scandal.
Relationships: Jimmy Sr. Rabbitte (Father, initially angry but becomes protective); Veronica Rabbitte (Mother, quiet and supportive); George Burgess (Father of her baby, married man); Jackie Burgess (Friend, wife of George Burgess)
Jimmy Sr. Rabbitte
Supporting
Sharon's father, who struggles to accept her pregnancy but eventually becomes deeply attached to his unborn grandchild.
Jimmy Sr. is the patriarch of the Rabbitte family, a working-class man with strong opinions and a gruff exterior. His initial reaction to Sharon's pregnancy is one of shock, anger, and disappointment, particularly because she is unmarried and won't name the father. He represents traditional values but possesses a deep, if sometimes awkwardly expressed, love for his family. His journey from disapproval to tender affection for his unborn grandchild, whom he affectionately calls 'The Snapper,' is a central emotional arc of the novel, showcasing his capacity for growth and unconditional love.
Relationships: Sharon Rabbitte (Daughter, initially strained but becomes supportive); Veronica Rabbitte (Wife, stable and understanding partner); Georgina Rabbitte (Granddaughter, doting and protective)
Veronica Rabbitte
Supporting
Sharon's mother, a quiet but steadfast source of support and wisdom.
Veronica is the calm, pragmatic matriarch of the Rabbitte family. In contrast to Jimmy Sr.'s explosive reactions, Veronica approaches Sharon's pregnancy with quiet understanding and unwavering support. She is the anchor of the family, often mediating between her husband and children. Her strength lies in her understated resilience and her practical approach to problems. She provides Sharon with emotional comfort and practical advice throughout her pregnancy, embodying unconditional maternal love without fanfare. Her presence is a stabilizing force amidst the family's chaos and the community's gossip.
Relationships: Sharon Rabbitte (Daughter, supportive and understanding); Jimmy Sr. Rabbitte (Husband, often balances his temper); Georgina Rabbitte (Granddaughter)
George Burgess
Mentioned
The married father of Sharon's baby, whose identity remains a secret to the community.
George Burgess is the unseen but significant figure in Sharon's pregnancy. He is a married man and the husband of Sharon's friend, Jackie. His identity as the baby's father is known only to Sharon and the reader, driving Sharon's determination to keep it a secret to avoid scandal and protect Jackie. The circumstances of the conception, a drunken one-night stand, highlight the complexity and moral ambiguity of the situation. He represents the hidden consequences of actions and the societal pressures that lead Sharon to make difficult choices.
Relationships: Sharon Rabbitte (Mother of his child); Jackie Burgess (Wife); Georgina Rabbitte (Daughter)
Jackie Burgess
Supporting
Sharon's friend and the wife of George Burgess.
Jackie is Sharon's friend, and unknowingly, the wife of the father of Sharon's baby. She represents the potential collateral damage of Sharon's secret. Her friendship with Sharon adds a layer of emotional complexity and ethical dilemma to Sharon's decision to keep silent. Jackie is depicted as a typical young woman in the community, unaware of the profound connection between her husband and her friend. Her presence underscores the personal stakes involved in revealing the truth, making Sharon's silence both a burden and an act of protection.
Relationships: Sharon Rabbitte (Friend); George Burgess (Husband)
Darren Rabbitte
Supporting
One of Sharon's younger brothers, often making inappropriate but humorous remarks.
Darren is one of Sharon's many younger brothers. He is a typical mischievous and outspoken teenager, often making blunt and sometimes insensitive comments about Sharon's pregnancy. His remarks, while often crude, provide much of the book's comedic relief and reflect the unvarnished reality of a large, working-class family. Despite his bluntness, he is part of the family unit that eventually rallies around Sharon, showcasing the rough-and-tumble affection that defines the Rabbittes. He is representative of the younger generation's less constrained views.
Relationships: Sharon Rabbitte (Sister); Jimmy Sr. Rabbitte (Father); Veronica Rabbitte (Mother)
Georgina Rabbitte
Supporting
Sharon's baby girl, who brings joy and a new dynamic to the Rabbitte family.
Georgina is Sharon's baby, the 'snapper' around whom the entire plot revolves. She is the innocent catalyst for the family's transformation and the community's gossip. Her arrival is met with overwhelming joy and acceptance, particularly by Jimmy Sr., who becomes utterly besotted with her. Georgina represents hope, new beginnings, and the power of unconditional family love. Her presence solidifies Sharon's identity as a mother and unites the Rabbitte family in their shared affection and protection of her.
Relationships: Sharon Rabbitte (Mother); Jimmy Sr. Rabbitte (Grandfather, doting); Veronica Rabbitte (Grandmother); George Burgess (Father (unacknowledged))
Bertie
Supporting
A local pub regular and friend of Jimmy Sr., who frequently speculates about the baby's father.
Bertie is one of Jimmy Sr.'s drinking buddies and a fixture in the local pub. He embodies the collective curiosity and gossip of the Barrytown community. Bertie constantly tries to extract information about the father's identity from Jimmy Sr., often through leading questions or playful teasing. His persistent questioning highlights the social pressure Sharon and her family face. Despite his nosiness, Bertie is not malicious, but rather a representation of the tight-knit, gossipy nature of the community, where everyone knows everyone's business.
Relationships: Jimmy Sr. Rabbitte (Friend and drinking companion)
The Snapper Themes
Family and Community Bonds
The novel explores the chaotic bonds within a large working-class Irish family and their close-knit community. Despite initial shock and public gossip surrounding Sharon's unmarried pregnancy, the Rabbitte family ultimately rallies around her, showing fierce loyalty and unconditional love. Jimmy Sr.'s transformation from anger to doting grandfather exemplifies the strength of these family ties. The community, while gossipy, also provides a backdrop of shared experience and a sense of belonging, showing both its pressures and its comforts.
“'Family. It's not a word. It's a sentence.”
Acceptance and Forgiveness
A central theme is the journey towards acceptance, particularly for Jimmy Sr., who grapples with his daughter's unconventional pregnancy. His initial disapproval slowly gives way to a love for his unborn grandchild, symbolizing the family's ultimate acceptance of Sharon's situation without judgment of her choices. Sharon's own journey involves accepting her new reality as a single mother. The quiet forgiveness and unwavering support from Veronica also show this theme, how love can overcome societal expectations and personal disappointments.
“'He'd get used to it. He'd have to. It was family.”
Secrecy and Public Scrutiny
Sharon's decision to keep the father's identity a secret is a major driving force of the plot, creating tension and generating public scrutiny within the small Barrytown community. The constant speculation from neighbors and Jimmy Sr.'s friends shows the invasive nature of gossip in a close-knit environment. Sharon's silence is an act of both self-preservation and protection for others, showing the burden and power of holding a secret, and the societal pressures that lead individuals to do so, even at personal cost.
“'Whose is it?' 'None of your business,' Sharon had said. And that was that. Or should have been.”
Irish Working-Class Life
Roddy Doyle portrays the realities of working-class life in Dublin, particularly Barrytown. The novel is rich with authentic dialogue, humor, and details of domestic life, from crowded family homes to local pubs. It captures the resilience, humor, and strong sense of community that characterize this demographic. The struggles and joys of the Rabbitte family, their language, and their interactions are rooted in this specific cultural and social context, making the setting an almost palpable character in itself.
“'The Rabbitte house was never quiet. Never. There was always a telly, or a radio, or a kid, or all three.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Unnamed Father
The withheld identity of the baby's father as a central mystery and source of tension.
The identity of Sharon's baby's father is kept a secret from the Rabbitte family and the community throughout the majority of the novel. While the reader eventually learns it is George Burgess, Sharon's steadfast refusal to name him creates the primary external conflict and a sustained mystery. This device highlights Sharon's agency, her loyalty to her friend Jackie, and the intense social pressure surrounding her pregnancy. It also fuels the community's gossip and Jimmy Sr.'s frustration, driving much of the narrative's humor and tension.
'The Snapper' as a Symbol
Jimmy Sr.'s affectionate nickname for his unborn grandchild, symbolizing acceptance and love.
The term 'The Snapper' is Jimmy Sr.'s nickname for Sharon's unborn baby. Initially, it's a somewhat gruff, almost dismissive term, but as the pregnancy progresses, it transforms into a deeply affectionate and tender moniker. This device symbolizes Jimmy Sr.'s evolving acceptance and love for his grandchild, serving as a barometer for his emotional journey. The repeated use of the term also adds a touch of quirky humor and warmth, underscoring the unique bond forming within the family and the baby's integration into the Rabbitte clan even before birth.
Dialogue-Driven Narrative
Extensive use of authentic, colloquial Irish dialogue to reveal character and advance plot.
Roddy Doyle employs a highly dialogue-driven narrative, capturing the distinctive rhythms, humor, and slang of working-class Dublin speech. The conversations are often rapid-fire, overlapping, and filled with bluntness and wit, reflecting the boisterous and informal communication style of the Rabbitte family. This device not only makes the characters feel incredibly real and relatable but also serves to advance the plot, reveal character personalities, and convey emotions more directly than extensive narration. The dialogue is key to establishing the novel's authentic tone and humor.
Limited Omniscient Point of View (focused on Jimmy Sr.)
The narrative often filters events and emotions through Jimmy Sr.'s perspective.
While the story centers on Sharon, a significant portion of the narrative, particularly the emotional arc, is filtered through Jimmy Sr.'s limited omniscient point of view. The reader gains deep insight into his thoughts, struggles, and eventual acceptance of Sharon's pregnancy. This choice allows for a nuanced exploration of a father's evolving emotions and prejudices, making his transformation particularly poignant. By focusing on Jimmy Sr.'s internal world, Doyle explores themes of masculinity, tradition, and unconditional love from a unique angle, adding depth to the family drama.
The Snapper Quotes
“It was a girl. She was definitely a girl. He was sure of it.”
“They were all looking at her stomach. She knew they were.”
“She wasn't going to tell anyone. She'd keep it a secret. For ever.”
“They were all great, her family. She loved them. Even when they were doing her head in.”
“A baby. A fecking baby. Where did they come from anyway?”
“He didn't care who the father was. It was his grandchild. That was all that mattered.”
“She was a snapper. A Dublin snapper. That's what she was.”
“It was like a competition. Who could say the most shocking thing.”
“She felt like a balloon, getting bigger and bigger, and everyone was watching her inflate.”
“He knew it wasn't his, but he felt like it was. It felt like his.”
“He just wanted to hit someone. Anyone. To make them stop looking at her.”
“The baby was coming. No going back now. It was happening.”
“She was a Rabbitte. A proper Rabbitte. Through and through.”
“It was a good thing. A good thing, despite everything.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is Sharon Rabbitte's marital status when she discovers she is pregnant?
- Married
- Engaged
- Unmarried
- Divorced
Show answer
C. Unmarried The book description explicitly states that Sharon is 'unmarried' when she becomes pregnant, which is a central point of conflict for her and her family.
Question 2
What is the primary reason Sharon keeps the father's identity a secret?
- She is unsure who the father is.
- The father is a married man from the neighborhood.
- The father is a close family friend, making the situation highly sensitive.
- She wants to raise the child on her own without interference.
Show answer
C. The father is a close family friend, making the situation highly sensitive. While not explicitly stated in the provided blurb, a key plot point of 'The Snapper' is that the father is a close family friend, which adds a layer of scandal and difficulty to Sharon's situation, hence her desire to keep it secret.
Question 3
What is Jimmy Sr.'s initial reaction to Sharon's pregnancy news?
- Calm acceptance
- Shock
- Anger
- Indifference
Show answer
B. Shock The blurb states, 'Her own father, Jimmy Sr., is shocked by the news,' highlighting his immediate emotional response to his unmarried daughter's pregnancy.
Question 4
What is the colloquial term used by friends and neighbors for Sharon's unborn baby?
- The 'bun in the oven'
- The 'snapper'
- The 'little one'
- The 'surprise'
Show answer
B. The 'snapper' The title of the book, 'The Snapper,' refers to the colloquial term used by the community for Sharon's baby, as also mentioned in the blurb: 'Her friends and neighbors all want to know whose 'snapper' Sharon is carrying.'
Question 5
How does Sharon's mother generally react to the news of the pregnancy?
- She offers strong opinions and advice.
- She is visibly upset and tearful.
- She says very little.
- She immediately supports Sharon without question.
Show answer
C. She says very little. The description notes, 'Her mother says very little,' indicating a more reserved or perhaps internal reaction compared to Jimmy Sr.'s shock.
Question 6
What is Sharon's occupation at the beginning of the novel?
- Teacher
- Grocery store worker
- Factory worker
- Unemployed
Show answer
B. Grocery store worker The blurb states Sharon is 'working in a grocery store,' providing a detail about her everyday life and circumstances.
Question 7
Which aspect of the Rabbitte family is highlighted as being significantly impacted by Sharon's pregnancy?
- The younger children's school performance
- Sharon's relationship with her siblings
- Jimmy Sr.'s perspective and role
- The family's financial stability
Show answer
C. Jimmy Sr.'s perspective and role The blurb emphasizes the impact 'especially on Jimmy Sr.,' suggesting his character arc and reaction are central to the family's journey through Sharon's pregnancy.
Question 8
What literary qualities are attributed to Roddy Doyle's observation of the family's situation in 'The Snapper'?
- Melancholy, historical, and ironic
- Sarcastic, detached, and critical
- Wit, candor, and surprising authenticity
- Poetic, philosophical, and allegorical
Show answer
C. Wit, candor, and surprising authenticity The description praises Doyle's approach with 'wit, candor, and surprising authenticity,' indicating the tone and style of the novel.
Question 9
How does the community's interest in Sharon's pregnancy primarily manifest?
- They offer unsolicited medical advice.
- They provide financial support to Sharon.
- They are curious about the father's identity.
- They organize a baby shower for her.
Show answer
C. They are curious about the father's identity. The blurb explicitly states, 'Her friends and neighbors all want to know whose 'snapper' Sharon is carrying,' highlighting their focus on the paternity of the child.
Question 10
Which previous novel by Roddy Doyle is mentioned as 'The Snapper' being a follow-up to?
- Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha
- The Woman Who Walked Into Doors
- The Commitments
- A Star Called Henry
Show answer
C. The Commitments The introductory text states, 'the follow up to his acclaimed debut novel The Commitments,' placing 'The Snapper' in context within Doyle's literary career.
The Snapper FAQ
What is 'The Snapper' about?
'The Snapper' is about twenty-year-old Sharon Rabbitte, who becomes pregnant out of wedlock and lives at home with her large, working-class Dublin family. The novel follows her pregnancy, her decision to keep the father's identity a secret, and the varied reactions of her family, particularly her father Jimmy Sr., as they grapple with the societal implications and personal adjustments.
Why should I read 'The Snapper'?
You should read 'The Snapper' for its authentic portrayal of a working-class Irish family, its sharp wit, and its candid exploration of family dynamics and societal judgment surrounding an unexpected pregnancy. Roddy Doyle masterfully balances humor with genuine emotional depth, making for a highly engaging and relatable story.
What is the background/setting of 'The Snapper'?
The book is set in a working-class suburb of Dublin, Ireland, in the late 1980s. The Rabbitte family lives in a bustling household, and the community is close-knit but also prone to gossip, which significantly impacts Sharon's experience of her pregnancy. The setting emphasizes the traditional values and social pressures of the time and place.
What are the most memorable quotes?
Memorable quotes often revolve around Jimmy Sr.'s exasperated but ultimately loving reactions, such as his repeated use of 'Fuckin' hell, Sharon!' or his internal monologues about his daughter's situation. The dialogue throughout is distinctive for its authentic Irish vernacular, capturing the cadence and humor of the Rabbitte family's interactions.
What writing style does the author use?
Roddy Doyle employs a direct, unpretentious, and highly colloquial writing style, rich with authentic Dublin slang and dialogue. He uses minimal descriptive prose, allowing the characters' voices and interactions to drive the narrative. The humor is often situational and observational, delivered with a dry wit.
What minor details add significant meaning?
The constant chatter and gossip among the neighbors and Jimmy Sr.'s pub mates, though seemingly minor, highlight the intense social scrutiny Sharon faces. Also, details like Sharon's continued work at the grocery store throughout her pregnancy underscore her resilience and independence despite her situation.
What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?
Subtle hints about the father's identity are dropped through Sharon's evasiveness and her specific, almost defensive, reactions when certain male figures are mentioned, particularly when her father, Jimmy Sr., speculates about who it might be. Her discomfort is a quiet indicator of the truth.
What unexpected character connections exist?
The most unexpected connection is that the father of Sharon's baby is George Burgess, a married man and the father of Sharon's friend, Jackie. This revelation is shocking because it involves a breach of trust within their social circle and complicates the family's already challenging situation.
What are unspoken character motivations?
Sharon's unspoken motivation for keeping the father's identity a secret is likely a combination of protecting herself from further judgment, shielding George Burgess from his family's wrath, and perhaps a deep-seated desire to maintain some control over her narrative in a situation where she feels judged and exposed.
What psychological complexities do characters exhibit?
Jimmy Sr. exhibits complex psychological shifts, moving from initial shock and anger to a deep, protective love for Sharon and the unborn child. He struggles with his traditional views versus his unconditional parental love, often expressing his feelings through gruffness and humor rather than overt sentimentality.
What are the major emotional turning points?
A major emotional turning point is when Jimmy Sr. finally fully accepts Sharon's pregnancy and begins to anticipate the baby's arrival, shifting from embarrassment to pride. Another is Sharon's decision to reveal the father's identity to her mother, which deepens their bond and provides Sharon with a much-needed confidante.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
The relationship between Sharon and her father, Jimmy Sr., evolves from one of initial conflict and misunderstanding to profound acceptance and mutual respect. Her relationship with her mother, Veronica, also strengthens as Veronica provides quiet, unwavering support, becoming a pillar for Sharon.
Which parts remain ambiguous or open-ended?
The long-term consequences for George Burgess and his family after the baby's birth remain largely ambiguous, as the novel focuses on the Rabbitte family's internal journey. The exact nature of Sharon's feelings for George, beyond the initial encounter, is also not deeply explored, leaving her motivations somewhat open to interpretation.
What are controversial scenes or decisions?
The most controversial decision is Sharon's choice to sleep with George Burgess, a married man and her friend's father. The revelation of his identity is a significant plot point that sparks debate about responsibility, betrayal, and the moral complexities of the characters involved.
'The Snapper' ending explained: how it ends & what it means
The novel ends with Sharon giving birth to a healthy baby girl, Georgina. Despite the earlier drama, the Rabbitte family embraces the new arrival with joy and love. The ending signifies the triumph of family bonds and unconditional love over societal judgment and initial shock, showing how a challenging situation ultimately strengthens their unit.
About the author
Roddy Doyle is an Irish novelist, dramatist and screenwriter. He is the author of eleven novels for adults, eight books for children, seven plays and screenplays, and dozens of short stories. Several of his books have been made into films, beginning with The Commitments in 1991. Doyle's work is set primarily in Ireland, especially working-class Dublin, and is notable for its heavy use of dialogue written in slang and Irish English dialect. Doyle was awarded the Booker Prize in 1993 for his novel Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha.
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