Seamus O' Kelly is an acknowledged great of the short story form, and this collection of seven stories merits every commendation. His expertise was in the recreation of atmosphere and movement, and in this collection, his versatility in showing his Irish characters in various circumstances and aspects of Irish life is a dominant feature. The casual rhythm of his canal barge trilogy, with the unconsummated and distant love of Michael and Mary and the humorous touch in The Man with the Gift transposes the reader in thought to scenes which were familiar to the author...' Free Press
