The Boy in The Boat
The Origins of Character and Calling
Growing up in his parent’s hotel in Blackpool, Brian never knew why his family fled Ireland, but he learnt early to escape his father’s demonic rages by slipping away from the Alexandra Hotel to the beach and the Kathleen R, the fishing boat that was to become his refuge and his sanctuary. Later, forced to flee the law in England, Brian arrives in Australia seeking to overcome his dependency on alcohol and the damage he is wreaking on the lives of those he loves.
In a style that is both raw and compelling, The Boy in the Boat tells the riveting story of Brian’s childhood, his triumph over alcoholism, his inspirational journey towards recovery, and ultimately to the awakening that he was shaped and prepared during his childhood years for the meaning and purpose of his life.
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© 2009 Brian O'Raleigh. All Right Reserved.
Press Reviews
“O’Raleigh is a convincing writer and this book is good enough to deserve ranking with ‘Angela’s Ashes’. He mixes dialogue, narrative and reflection in a memoir that is always engrossing, often scary and sometimes funny. He is searingly honest and if this work can bring help to other tortured souls, he deserves great credit.”
— The Australian Irish Echo
“From raw and compelling prose, a moving portrait emerges of Brian. From cowed child to fierce rebel and finally to an adult battling with his own inner demons. This is a finely crafted memoir.”
— Australian Woman’s Day
“Brian is no angel. He’s an infuriating drunk and irresponsible brute - which is why this story of ultimate redemption is so powerful. It has its lighter moments too, where innocent humor offers respite from the cynical and wistful mood.”
— Australian New Idea
“In this searingly honest memoir O’Raleigh chronicles the abuse that would leave him scarred for life. The fact that he can now write about his tumultuous origins, given over to crime, drugs and alcohol, must mean that he has at last conquered his own inner demons. This is an engrossing read.”
— Ballarat Courier Australia
