That They May Face the Rising Sun
That They May Face the Rising Sun
Book Brief
Beta304
Novel • Fiction
Rural Ireland • Contemporary
2002
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In That They May Face the Rising Sun, individuals living in rural Ireland navigate daily life, community ties, and personal relationships. The narrative captures the rhythms of country life, focusing on themes of belonging, connection, and the passage of time within a close-knit community.
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Melancholic
Serene
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
3,188 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John McGahern's That They May Face the Rising Sun is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of rural Irish life. Its subtle, meditative narrative captures the rhythm of daily existence, though some find the plot too slow-paced. Characters are richly developed, enhancing the intimate community portrayal. The novel's reflective style may not suit those preferring action-driven stories.
Who Should Read That They May Face the Rising Sun?
A reader who enjoys That They May Face the Rising Sun by John McGahern likely appreciates reflective rural narratives and deep character studies. Fans of Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë and Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy would find similar thematic richness and atmospheric settings engaging.
3,188 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
That They May Face the Rising Sun was published in 2002 and is written by the celebrated Irish author John McGahern, who is known for his evocative portrayal of rural Irish life.
The novel was published under the title By the Lake in the United States, reflecting its serene setting by a lakeside community in Ireland.
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John McGahern, often referred to as one of the greatest Irish novelists of the 20th century, received widespread critical acclaim for his ability to capture the intricacies of everyday life, and this book is particularly noted for its poetic and detailed depiction of the rhythms of a year in rural Ireland.
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304
Novel • Fiction
Rural Ireland • Contemporary
2002
Adult
18+ years
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