Paul Murray's deep affection for Zimbabwe, kindled two decades ago, shapes his literary perspective. He dedicates much of his year to exploring the country, a pursuit informed by his role managing a safari camp. This intimate connection with the Zimbabwean landscape and its culture infuses his writing with authenticity and a unique sense of place, offering readers a profound glimpse into the heart of Africa.
The book explores the enduring mission of the Order of Preachers, established by St. Dominic in the thirteenth century to spread the Gospel. It addresses the contemporary challenge of bridging the divide between Christian tradition and secular culture, emphasizing the importance of witnessing God's love in today's world. The call to action is directed not just at Dominicans but at all baptized Christians, urging them to embrace their role in proclaiming faith amidst growing secularism.
WINNER OF IRISH BOOK OF THE YEAR 2023SHORTLISTED FOR THE BOOKER PRIZE 2023SHORTLISTED FOR THE NERO BOOK AWARDS 2023SHORTLISTED FOR THE WRITERS' PRIZE FOR FICTION 2024ONE OF SARAH JESSICA PARKER'S BEST BOOKS OF 2023Book of the Year 2023 according to New York Times, New Yorker, The Sunday Times, The Economist, Observer, Guardian, Washington Post, Lit Hub, TIME magazine, Irish Times, The Oldie, Daily Mail, i Paper, Independent, The Standard, The Times, Kirkus, Daily Express, City A.M. 'A tragicomic triumph. You won't read a sadder, truer, funnier novel this year' GuardianThe Barnes family are in trouble. Until recently they ran the biggest business in town, now they're teetering on the brink of bankruptcy - and that's just the start of their problems. Dickie and Imelda's marriage is hanging by a thread; straight-A student Cass is careening off the rails; PJ is hopelessly in debt to the school bully. Meanwhile the ghosts of old mistakes are rising out of the past to meet them, but everyone's too wrapped up in the present to see the danger looming . . .'Generous, immersive, sharp-witted and devastating; the sort of novel that becomes a friend for life' Financial Times'Paul Murray [is] the undisputed reigning champion of epic Irish tragicomedy' Spectator'An instant classic' Washington Post'[An] astute, remorselessly funny novel' Daily Mirror 'A wagyu steak of a novel . . . A classic in the mode of The Corrections' The Times
The Barnes family is in trouble. Dickie's once-lucrative car business is going under - but rather than face the music, he's spending his days in the woods, building an apocalypse-proof bunker with a renegade handyman. His wife Imelda is selling off her jewellery on eBay while their teenage daughter Cass, formerly top of her class, seems determined to binge-drink her way to her final exams. And twelve-year-old PJ is putting the final touches to his grand plan to run away from home. Where did it all go wrong? A patch of ice on the tarmac, a casual favour to a charming stranger, a bee caught beneath a bridal veil? Can a single moment of bad luck change the direction of a life? And if the story has already been written - is there still time to find a happy ending? 'The finest novel that Murray has yet written . . . will surely be one of the books of 2023' Sunday Independent 'Murray is a natural storyteller . . . Ambitious, expansive, hugely entertaining tragicomic fiction' Irish Times 'It's a thing of beauty, a novel that will fill your heart' Observer 'Generous, immersive, sharp-witted and devastating . . . a triumph' Financial Times 'It's been compared to Jonathan Franzen's The Corrections; I'd argue it's better' Daily Mail
The narrative follows the descendants of Abraham as they finally arrive in Canaan after enduring forty years of wandering in the wilderness. This new generation, steeped in the tales of their ancestors about a promised nation and land, stands on the brink of fulfilling Yahweh's long-awaited promise. The themes of hope, legacy, and divine blessing permeate their journey, highlighting the significance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The narrative chronicles the conquest of Canaan, highlighting its significance as the fulfillment of God's promise to Abram and his descendants. This biblical account emphasizes the importance of the Promised Land, described as a land of milk and honey, showcasing God's gift to His people and their journey to claim it.
The book explores the theme of patience in faith, contrasting society's demand for instant results with the often gradual process of spiritual growth. It reflects on biblical examples of immediate miracles while emphasizing that true maturity in faith and victory over sin usually requires a lifetime of effort. As Israel divides the promised land, each tribe faces the responsibility of fully driving out remaining enemies to secure their inheritance. The narrative encourages readers to understand the importance of perseverance in their spiritual journey.
Series - Meet Messiah: A Simple Man's Commentary on John Part 3, Chapters 13-17
Focusing on the final moments of Jesus' life, this section of John's gospel captures the intimate gathering with His twelve disciples in an upper room before Passover. It highlights the significance of these hours as the culmination of His ministry, emphasizing the absence of public miracles and teachings. This poignant setting allows for deep reflection on the relationships and teachings shared in this critical time, marking a transition from His public life to the events leading to His crucifixion.
Series - Meet Messiah: A Simple Man's Commentary on John Part 4, Chapters 18-21
The narrative explores an epic spiritual conflict that transcends physical battles, focusing on the eternal struggle for the hearts and souls of humanity. It delves into the timeless battle between good and evil, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced throughout history. By examining this profound spiritual warfare, the book invites readers to reflect on the implications of these conflicts in their own lives and the broader human experience.
Series - Meet Messiah: A Simple Man's Commentary on John Part 2, Chapters 5-12
The second part of the four-part series delves into the disciples' journey alongside the Messiah, exploring their experiences from chapters 5 to 12 of the Gospel of John. Titled "Faith or Frustration," this installment focuses on the challenges and growth faced by the disciples as they navigate their faith in the context of Jesus' teachings and actions. This section aims to deepen the understanding of their relationship with the Messiah and the complexities of belief during His ministry.
Series - Meet Messiah: A Simple Man's Commentary on John Part 1, Chapters 1-4
The perspective of John, Jesus's closest friend, offers a distinctive view of Jesus's character in this gospel. Through personal insights and a deep connection, the author presents a unique portrayal that highlights the intimate relationship between them, providing readers with a profound understanding of Jesus's life and teachings.