Read with me: Half Irish by Peter J. S. Waugh

HALF IRISH by Peter J. S. Waugh. Published by The White Signature in June 2015

About Half Irish 

Follow 17 year-old Tyler from the busy streets of Manhattan to the empty beaches of Ireland. From gigging in coffee shops in Tribeca to standing on the Cliffs of Moher, busking in Belfast to late night drives with his beautiful summer girlfriend Tabitha, Half Irish takes you on a journey as you rediscover what it means to fall in love all over again and again and again. Thanks to the wistful hope-filled thoughts and a driving narrative Half Irish, the debut novel from Peter J. S. Waugh, is one of the best debuts to come out of Belfast in decades. This heart-warming coming of age love story will make you laugh until you cry, and cry until you begin to dream again.

Prologue

I usually dislike prologues, because they're so confusing, or at best I'm indifferent. This time however, I love the prologue! It begins with poetry or rather, a poem, I guess you could call it and it's so inviting! The prologue is a letter from Tyler about him and that's so clever! We get to know him a bit before we get into the story and I love that! I feel close to our narrator already.
Also, I love the writing style and I can hear Tyler speak clearly in my mind!

Chapter 1

Well, I love the relationship Tyler has with his parents! AND impromptu 'dance party'! That reminds me of Fangirl which is near and dear to my heart - definitely A+ from here!

Page 9

Thank god for a mature main character instead of a brat! Tyler's parents want Tyler to pay for his trip to Ireland by himself - so he needs to get a job - and they're not going with him. Instead of acting like a child he realizes that he has been taking his parents for granted! He's scared since it's his first trip alone and I love him for that! He's true to himself and more characters should have that trait. 

Page 24

I'm definitely a fan of using different 'formats' in books and of course Waugh does so - I think he's read my mind to be honest! So far Half Irish is everything I want in a book! There are lists - different types actually - and you know I love my lists! And Tyler writes some sort of limerick - which I adore him for and probably like more than I should. I just love all the effort!
These different formats make the story so much better because it adds a little something different - also it's more fun and I'm definitely having a good time here!

Page 28

A whole chapter dedicated to his parents, mainly his mom! And even though it's quite a short chapter I love that! I love how close we get to the characters - even if it's only Tyler and his mom and dad so far. I like that we get their lovestory! Tyler is definitely a good guy who loves his parents.
The only problem I have so far is that during this chapter he called his mother 'Esther' instead of mom while telling their story and I don't like that shift in narration - he couldn't have known all those details either. I really like Tyler's way of narrating though.

Page 38

Another poem! I'm not one for poetry but it's quite good to be honest - maybe I do like poetry after all.

Page 57

So, so far we have lists, poetry, a song and a tweet. I'm not sure I'm totally on board with all the #'s from Tyler's side - but we'll see. I'm still enjoying it a lot though.

Page 65

And now a RAP! Tyler is on fire! I didn't realize how into music he is in the beginning but now I know! A singer-songwriter even.
I was actually very much into music in 'my younger years' and I still sing in our local church choir so I can definitely relate to Tyler - also, we're very close in age. And go him for getting so many gigs! Performing is a great way to find yourself!
I'm also surprised that there is so many, or two so far, who are religious. It's not a problem yet but I hope it doesn't become too prominent - cause even though I sing in a church doesn't mean I like to read about religion.

POEM FROM THE PROLOGUE WHICH I ABSOLUTELY LOVE

Page 82

I quite like how 'realistic' Tyler's way of narrating is. When you tell a story you usually, or always, forget some vital part and have to go back and tell it - or you get ahead of yourself and skip to the best part and then have to go back and tell the entire thing. And that's what Tyler does! It feels realistic and he makes me laugh quite often.

Page 101

Texts! Totally forgot to mention them!
Also I'm quite excited because Tyler makes to do lists and his packing list is actually in the book! I love my lists and I always make a packing list! I especially love when characters make lists - it makes me feel like less of a dork.

Page 103

His friend, Rodriguez, has made a hand made guide book for Ireland for Tyler! What a friend! I wish I'd had my own hand made guidebook when I went to Ireland!

Page 114

Tyler, I like you more and more for every page I turn! Instead of ignoring the old guy, Chris, on the plane he's very friendly and takes an interest in Chris! I definitely like that about Tyler!
I also love how Waugh has chosen to deal with descriptions of characters: (brown/messy hair/stubbly beard/grey hoody/etc). It's quick and to the point - and I can actually visualize the characters opposed to her eyes where the color of some beautiful weather phenomenon - yes, it sounds beautiful, but I can't really use it.

Random thought

 I seriously wish I had some apple cider right now! We drank apple cider - or we chose to call it apple beer because in Ireland they don't have 'sweet' apple cider like here in Denmark with 1. something % alcohol. No, it contains as much alcohol as beer and is quite strong! But I always think of Ireland when I drink apple cider! 

Page 116

I need to confess something. I don't really travel. I've only ever visited Dublin, Ireland and a few cities in Netherlands - and trips to Germany. Which means I usually have a hard time visualizing how a place looks - I know it's never accurate and I hate that. However, this time I can see everything perfectly. I can smell and taste the BBQ pulled pork and fries Tyler eats - because that's something I got when I was in Dublin. I can also see the Temple Bar area clearly and it's such a different experience to be able to see the scenes happening and so on! It definitely takes me back!

THE BEAUTIFUL THING ABOUT LOVE IS THAT IT CAN STRIKE THE HEART WITCH MORE POWER THAN A HURRICANE, YET FEEL AS SOFT AS A SUMMER'S BREEZE

Page 128

Major in English Literature!? I could love you Tyler! I also love the fact that he writes a little something in his notebook everyday, or at least tries to. It was definitely a beautiful entry he wrote just now!

Page 151

I like the small history lessons Tyler gives us! Some of it I know and some are new to me. I don't know if I'd enjoy it in another book or this is a special case because it's Ireland... But I like it!

Page 173

Turns out Patrick, Tyler's cousin, is quite funny and makes me laugh out loud #doesourbromancemeannothingtoyou. Maybe I do like the #'s just a bit.
Also, we're getting to the good stuff now! Tyler is such a sweetheart with Tabitha.

Page 175

GOD I love the family relationships in this book! Tyler just got home from his first date and they end up having an impromptu family meeting talking about dates; the awkward, the horrible, the romantic etc. I especially love that his aunt says she's going to put a kettle on and his uncle immediately declares 'family meeting in 5'. It's such a lovely atmosphere and I wish more books included family in this manner.

Page 190

So we've known that something was going on with Patrick for a while - we just haven't known what. I've been thinking a variety of things but his sudden revelation actually surprised me - and I'm not often surprised when it comes to characters and secrets. More often than not it's so easy to guess what's wrong but Waugh - you fooled me.

Page 216

You know when you come across words you don't know and the author, or publisher, has made a footnote explaining said word - just to be kind. Well, Waugh has technically done that too, but instead of a footnote the explanation is on the last page in that particular chapter and it's quite a hassle having to find the last page of said chapter to get an explanation. I don't really know how I feel about it entirely.

Page 226

I'm glad it's not 'all about Tabitha'! Too many YA books become centered around 'the love' and forgets 'the family' and 'the friends' and other important stuff.
Also, props to Tyler for acting like a man and texting Tabitha after their fight. Even though she should apologize to him! Another plus for you in my book Tyler!

Page 314

Again, Tyler, you're such a sweetheart! Taking your grandma out for afternoon tea and pampering her definitely wins you some points! Also, you've grown and I love your and Pat's bromance. It's the best.

Page 350

Even though the entire book is full of life lessons, the letter Tyler receives from his Granda is jammed to the brim with life lessons. It's poetic, hauntingly beautiful and something to treasure. I'll definitely follow his advice.

THE BEAUTIFUL BACK! LOVE THE QUOTE AT THE TOP

The end

I really think Half Irish was a great read even though I had some problems with it. Definitely a solid 4 star read!

Even though Half Irish is just over 400 pages long it's a quick and easy read - perfect for summer! Well, an Irish (or Danish) summer..  I love the fact that friendship and family took an important role in this book and the love part stayed in the background. I will definitely read more of Peter J. S. Waugh's work (if he writes more) because I love his way of writing. It's youthful yet beautiful and a joy to read. 

Buy the book
Amazon UK ⎜Amazon US ⎜Petewaugh.com

Top Ten Tuesday: Love stories

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the lovely ladies at The Broke and the Bookish. Every Tuesday we create a list inspired by a particular topic! This week is a V-day freebie so I've chosen to talk about love stories! There's also a few quite here and there. 

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

I couldn't make a list of love stories without including Pride and Prejudice! I love Lizzy and Darcy and I really hope more people would give it a go - even though it's a classic. It's a classic for a reason and I just love it! 

“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”


Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
As you can probably tell from the header I have a good amount of Rowell's books on my list this week. She writes cute contemporary romances and all of her books (or the 4 I've read so far) has practically become instant favorites - except Eleanor & Park, it's a cute story but not as good as her other books. 
A nerdy romance - what's not to love?

“Happily ever after, or even just together ever after, is not cheesy,” Wren said. “It’s the noblest, like, the most courageous thing two people can shoot for.” 


Landline by Rainbow Rowell
Well again, Rowell. Landline is my most recent read by her - which was way back in 2014! And I definitely have a lot of cute and romantic quotes from that book! I absolutely love that this is about a couple who are already married - I love the memories and I love the old love! I definitely think this is a must read - even if you're uncertain about the magical realism part (I know I was)

“I love you more than I hate everything else.” 


The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I was actually quite hesitant to read The Night Circus, I'd put it on my TBR so many times before and then suddenly it was a book club pick (for tomorrow's book club actually) so I 'had' to read it. To make myself want to read it more I bought myself a copy for my Christmas money and I definitely enjoyed it! 
Even though it's about this game of magic there's also a love story in it - both behind the scenes and in the forefront. I didn't expect to love it as much as I did but I did! I am quite amazed by the love story in the story since it's both prominent and hidden at the same time. It's quite cute actually. 

“I have been surrounded by love letters you two have built each other for years, encased in tents.” 


A Little Something Different by Sandy Hall
I read this back in December 2014 and absolutely loved it! I love how it's a lovestory told from 14 different point of views, including a bench and a squirrel, but not from the 'couple' itself. It's all seen from the outside and that makes it wonderfully different! 

“She is a picture of a girl falling in love. There;s no way they're not getting together now.” 


Attachments by Rainbow Rowell
Fine, the last book by Rowell! Attachments were actually my first read from Rowell! I picked the title from a TBR jar and with a quite hesitant step, I found the book and started reading - I might have finished it on the same day but who knows? I absolutely love this book! It's so cute and even though it has some creepy aspect (come on, he reads her emails. *cough* Joe Goldberg, You *cough*) it's also quite cute! 

“I’d know you in the dark,” he said. “From a thousand miles away. There’s nothing you could become that I haven’t already fallen in love with.” 


How to Love by Katie Cotugno
If you're uncertain whether to read this because you've read 99 Days by her, then read this - it's sooo much better! And again, if you're unsure which one to start of those two books - only read How to Love that is my final advice! 
How to Love quickly reserved a spot on my 'best of 2014' list. It's such a deep and emotional book and I just loved it. Even though it's about teen pregnancy and well, bad breakups, it quickly redeems itself and become oh so good! 
Is it ironic that it's on my list even though it says 'not a love story' on the back?

“Kissing him feels familiar but also new, a song they haven’t played on the radio in a really long time.” 


Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë 
Jane Eyre is actually my current read and I'm only 70 pages in. I'm correct in assuming it's a love story, right? It's definitely not indicating anything yet since she's only 10 years old but I remember something about a Heathcliff... Or am I completely wrong? Please don't spoil anything for me! 


Quotes
I have two quotes from The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell and Tiger Lily by Jodi Lynn Anderson

My parents met in a library. After college my mother was a librarian. My father came in to borrow some books, saw my mother, and fell in love. They were married six months later. 

- The Carrie Diaries, Chapter 10

"You love me," she said. "That's enough. We love each other."
"Yes. Yes, that's true." He smiled. "We are a love story."

- Tiger Lily, Chapter 5

The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald

Series: N/A, Standalone

Publication date: January 1, 2016
Publisher: Sourcebook Landmark
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Women's fiction
Format: eArc
Source: The publisher through netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Pages: 398
Rating: ★★★★★/5

Goodreads ⎜Amazon ⎜Book Depository

Once you let a book into your life, the most unexpected things can happen...

Broken Wheel, Iowa, has never seen anyone like Sara, who traveled all the way from Sweden just to meet her pen pal, Amy. When she arrives, however, she finds that Amy's funeral has just ended. Luckily, the townspeople are happy to look after their bewildered tourist—even if they don't understand her peculiar need for books. Marooned in a farm town that's almost beyond repair, Sara starts a bookstore in honor of her friend's memory. All she wants is to share the books she loves with the citizens of Broken Wheel and to convince them that reading is one of the great joys of life. But she makes some unconventional choices that could force a lot of secrets into the open and change things for everyone in town. Reminiscent of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, this is a warm, witty book about friendship, stories, and love.

I heard about this readalong going on in the beginning of the year where a bunch of people, here in Denmark, read the Danish translation of The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend and now, after having read it, I'm quite sad that I didn't join them. It would be so nice to be able to share my feelings and thoughts with while I was reading it - because I absolutely loved it!

Going in to this book I only knew that it was about a girl who opened a book shop - and that it was a book about books. What more can you ask for really?

Sara has a pen pal in America called Amy, they exchange books and letters for two years and then Amy invites Sara to America. Sara leaves Sweden for a couple of months to finally meet Amy and ends up falling in love with Broken Wheel, Iowa. The beginning definitely made me laugh - her long time friend invites her to America only to wind up dead when she arrives.
I loved Sara! She always has a book with her, she's honest, loves to read, kind, funny and the kind of person I would love to know in real life. I think Sara might be one of, if not the, best characters I've ever come across. She's so real and so likeable! Sara definitely understands other readers and by the time I was done reading it I had two whole pages (Word pages) full of quotes from the book and a bunch of recommendations!

The other characters are definitely also likable, I loved Andy and Carl - the homosexual couple who runs the bar in town, I think Tom, Amy's nephew, is a fantastic character - he has so many different sides and his personality is right up my alley!. The rest of the characters are nice, but these are definitely some of my favorites!

Broken Wheel is a different sort of town; it's quite small but yet filled with people - at least it feels that way. Together with Sara I fell in love with the town, it became so idyllic, everyone was so friendly, everybody knew everybody and people helps each other. It was such a nice setting and it definitely brought something to the book. The small town setting might be one of my favorite things about the book.
The bookshop! I can't write this review without mentioning it! It's definitely my idyllic bookshop. It's not divided by genre, it's divided into Sara's very own categories and when she started making the categories I began laughing - when she was done I was mind blown: I will probably never categorize my books after the 'normal' genres anymore. I will follow Sara's example! The shop itself is so idyllic - it's homey and it's full of books. What more can you want? I just wanted to go to Broken Wheel myself, find a book and read in one of those big comfy chairs. If only.

Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend definitely surprised me, I had expected a light book about books and what I got was a fantastic, lovely, phenomenal and wonderful book. It was light but at the same time not fluffy - if that makes sense. I related so much to Sara, I laughed with the characters and I just wanted to go to Broken Wheel myself.
I think every lover of books should read this, it has probably made me love reading, and books in general, even more. It is so passionate about books and reading that you can't help being it too. It was so nice to read a book that really understands this passion we have of reading - not many people do and Katarina Bivald definitely do!
I have to admit, when I finished it I was ready to start over again, just to go back to Broken Wheel. That's how good this book is.