Customer Reviews

Celtic Childhood

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I was first recommended this book by a friend. Having already read Frank McCourt's 'Angela's Ashes' I was wary of what I assumed to be something of a similar subject matter. However I was pleasantly surprised. Rather than attempting to invoke a feeling of guilty depression upon the reader, Watkins book celebrates both the joys of growing up (many of us share the memory of a childhood that was poor AND happy)and the tenacious nature of the Celtic spirit without falling into the repetitive downward spiralling plot of AA. The overall mood is a positive one that involves the reader through rich descriptions and even a glossary to help with the cosmopolitan use of language. It is certainly a book that you can go back to and as a good book of this type should do, it leads the reader to fresh ground. I found myself wanting to know more of the historical and mythical characters alluded to in the text. If this is to be the first work of a trilogy I can only hope the best is yet to come!

Given the timing and subject matter of Bill Watkins' "A Celtic Childhood," comparisons to Frank McCourt's "Angela's Ashes" and "'Tis" are inevitable.While the similarities are evident, Watkins' and McCourt's styles are far from identical.

While McCourt's stories are humorous, they focus on the hardships of growing up poor in Ireland, seemingly from the point of view of an adult looking back on the past. Watkins, on the other hand, tells humorous stories that mention the hardships of his youth matter-of-factly, and is able to take on the point of view of the child describing the present.

Watkins' vivid imagination and gift for language are quite apparent in this memoir. The fantasies he created for himself as a child (and often acted out) are wonderful, whether he be Biggles the World War I aviator or the leader of a pack of American gangsters.

What stands out for me in this book is the relationship Watkins, as an only child, had with his parents (and other adult relatives). His mother is a woman of great creativity and salty language, while his father is a bit of a tosspot and ne'er-do-well who loves his son and imparts great knowledge of things scientific, philospohical and historical.

Watkins has the eye of the keen observer, always alert, missing nothing, and the ability to describe what he has observed with very creative uses of language.

I recommend this book strongly to fans of humor, memoir, and all things Irish. Watkins reportedly plans a trilogy, of which this is the first volume. (The second will allegedly be called "Scotland is Not for the Squeamish.") I can't wait to read it!

Bill puts a smile on your face every time you meet him. A Celtic childhood is an example of his exceptional wit and charisma ! Its a joy to have this book being Irish, I'm from Co. Limerick - what a great christmas present for the folks back home. Keep um coming Bill !

Bill Watkins' work is as thoroughly absorbing as it is entertaining. A laugh out loud journey from the beginnings of childhood to adolescence with a style of writing that leaps from the page grabbing your attention and tickling the funny bone! The use of language, embellished with song and poetry lends itself well to bringing the many characters to life. A worthy addition to the Christmas reading list.

Writer Watkins autobiography is a lyrical and humorous collection of true growing up stories told in the best tradition.Wheras the English hoard words like misers the author spends them like a sailor.Watkins brings an intelligence and culture to Celtic life that is sorely lacking in other recent Irish literature.

Bill Watkins' humorous and fascinating memories of his childhood in Ireland and England make this one of those books that you just can't seem to stop reading. I kept telling myself, "Just ONE more chapter, then I'll put it down and go to sleep." Even the hard times are told with wit and good humor and with a real love for the people, surroundings, and music that influenced him so much. Am looking forward eagerly to the next one!

I was given a loan of this book while I was working my way through Frank McCourt's 'Angela's Ashes', which I found quite dour, on the other hand I found this book to be one of the most entertaining books I have read in many years, I virtually read the whole book in one sitting. As a Scotsman living in Dublin, there is a strong resonance of Celtic familiarity which made the book very endearing to me. Bill Watkins gift of the gab, sharp wit and his ability to make the reader feel that they are right along with him during his story telling makes for a grand rip-roaring adventure. An essential book for the new Millenium!

This wonderfully written book truely is one that should be on everyone's must read list. It's worth it's weight in gold! It is every bit as colorful as Bill Watkins is. While I read it, I almost felt like Bill was with me, telling me the tales,singing the songs and showing me around Ireland. Despite the hardships he faced,he manages to evoke much happiness in the reader. After reading this book,I can hardley wait for another. The book has shown me how Bill became the man he is today; he seems to find joy in any situation!

Bill Watkin's book is a charismatic blend of personal history, Celtic spirituality, and humor. While it resonates with the almost mythical beauty (and hardships) of growing up in post-war Ireland, it avoids the mistake of becoming maudlin. Watkin's coming-of-age tales are lessons for us all in the "joy of life." It's use of Galic history provides a strong base for a brilliant book. What a good read!

I was caught up in this first book by Bill immediately because of his warmth, humor, and the amazing way that his unsurpassed storytelling skills vividly draw you into the events of his childhood as though you were right there. A Celtic Childhood reveals the humor and heart and goodnatured view on life that Bill exudes today, in spite of any troubles and hard times. His perspective on life is very refreshing, and not at all bogged down by any self-pity or guilt as others have unfortunately exhibited in memoirs.

It's very difficult to put this book down. There are adventures around every corner which all turn out inevitably funny no matter how disastrous. These are told at an exciting and rapid pace similar to a child's energy and intake of experience. In particular, I love the language and the rhythm -- the ways that Bill questions in his early years the meanings behind common phrases, sayings, and words. His view of the adult lives around him are hysterical and apt!

His inclusion of a glossary and tune lyrics, as well as injection of many insights and facts of Celtic history, lore, and culture all serve to make this memoir an incredibly rich and vital read, that will leave an indelible imprint upon the heart and mind of all who read it.

Rarely have I read a book with such heart, and phenomenal wit and way with words. Bill's a grand storyteller, and a wonderful, generous and multi-talented human being. Looking very forward to reading "Scotland is Not for the Squeamish", and the 3rd book in this trilogy when it comes out next year!