Reading allows the young boy to escape to other worlds. Through books, Frank develops
his survival skills and a sense of hope for a better future. This strengthens his determination to
earn enough money to return to America one day. McCourt's ability to illustrate the humor in his
tragic childhood is very inspirational, albeit bittersweet.

This book should be required reading
for all teenagers. The McCourt saga continues in the sequal 'Tis.

Well, it did and the recognition was well-deserved.

Yes, it's about desperate
poverty, alcoholism, consumption, death, you name it - just one damnable thing after the other that
confronts Frankie McCourt, his brothers Malachy and Alphie, and mother Angela.

But the beauty of
this book is its voice, the voice of the very young and very Irish Frank McCourt. It sings, it
dances, it laughs at fear and despair, it's a melody of innocence in the midst of a
purgatory-on-earth.

Angela's Ashes is timeless, a treasure that is sure to stake its claim as a
classic.

I have also learned about writing from reading this book. His organization is
superb and his writing style is very engaging. Even the saddest parts are written with wit and a
sharpness that transcends beyond the emotions to get to the human truth. I cannot praise this book
enough. If nothing else, read it and step into a great person's shoes for a while.