RENTON - Fly or You Cry by Thomas P. McBride

This is a book that speaks for itself. The expression: ‘It does what it says on the tin,’ springs to mind. 

Only this time it’s a book, a book that contains a bit of everything. Whether you’re local or not there is much with which to identify.

Although the author describes his book as ‘primarily a work of fiction based on personal memoirs,’ the reader may suspect there is more autobiography than fiction.

 Beginning with the birth of Thomas we then regress somewhat to hear of his antecedents in Ireland and their emigration from Ireland to Scotland, the trials of his parents and their ‘mixed’ marriage, the lows and highs of growing up in Renton, the cruelties of school days, the bullying of Basher Brown and his gang, poverty and disease. 

The characters are brought to life for us. I personally feel empathy for Philly.But we also have descriptions of Thomas’ environs, friendships, loyalties and the influence of the Church. 

This is a story of different times, different mores.T

he author engages with the reader, the book moves on at a steady pace so the reader is soon drawn in. 

It is a pleasure to read such a well-crafted ‘telling’ written in a compelling style and, may I comment, displaying a superb command of the English language, which so many books these days seem to ignore. 

A worthy addition to the archives. 

For anyone interested in firsthand honest accounts of local history then this book is for them.

And if you’re intrigued to know whether Thomas flew or cried -buy his book