Edwin O'Connor (1918–1968)

I have seen and enjoyed the movie starring Spencer Tracy a number of times before I read this book. Spencer Tracy was an excellent Frank Skeffington. I enjoyed the book though there were times when it moved a bit too slowly for me. In a sense, seeing the movie before reading the book may have taken something away from my enjoyment as I was able to anticipate the arc of the story and the ending.

Frank Skeffington is the mayor of a city (obviously Boston) who is running for re-election. He eschews using media in favor of personal politics with campaign stops at neighborhoods, funeral services and work places. He is surrounded buy an eclectic group of friends, allies and sycophants, who depend upon him for jobs and their business.

Depending on your point of view, one can view Frank Skeffington as a sympathetic man worthy of praise and emulation or a crass politician from the “big boss” era taking advantage of the taxpayers and constituents.

A very good story on big city politics whose time has come and gone…… (meer)

I had found this in a box of books someone gave me, while sorting them to give to the library bookstore. I held this one out, as it sounded interesting, even though I usually am not interested in political stuff.

The Kinsella family are close, well connected, powerful and monies.

The story is told by Jack Kinsella, a mystery writer, and nephew of Jimmy Kinsella — the head of the family. Jimmy has three sons: Charles, James and Phil. Jimmy is brash, outspoken and has done exceedingly well financially.

The story tells of Charles' rise in the government from mayor to governor, with Phil as campaign manager. The two brothers fulfilling their father's dreams. James chooses the ecumenical path and also rises through the ranks, becoming well known in the international area of his religious world. This is not what his father had planned or hoped for.

The tie between Jack and his cousins developed from the time he lived with them after his mother and younger brother died. They formed a tight and strong bond that lasted for many years...until things started to fray. Until there was the possibility of a major scandal that could bring everything down.

I read this book in small portions. I felt I needed to think about what was going on in the story and how the characters where handling the situations. The dynamics between the characters are interesting. Jimmy as the patriarch, wanting to have control and build dynasty. The four boys, who also develop strong wills, wanting to please Jimmy yet needing to live their own lives.

I know O'Connor was recognized for his writing and I can see why. His storytelling style made me want to read the book, even though it is not my usual read.… (meer)