From Library Journal
This excellent biography of Irish novelist Jim Farrell (1935-79) was first published in the U.K. in 1999. The defining moment of the book is Farrell's tragic drowning, while fishing, at the age of 44. Greacen (Chink) received full cooperation from Farrell's family, including access to Farrell's private papers, resulting in this absorbing, fleshed-out account of his rich life. Best known for his novels about British colonialism The Singapore Grip, 1978, and the Booker Prize-winning The Siege of Krishapur, 1973 Farrell was unique among his contemporaries because he saw "events through the eyes of the colonized...where the submerged life of the Chinese community is viewed sympathetically." By all accounts, Farrell was temperamental and impatient, but he nevertheless formed many meaningful personal relationships throughout his life and was especially popular among women. With luck, this superb portrait will generate renewed interest in Farrell's novels. Highly recommended. Diane Gardner Premo, Rochester P.L., NY Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

THE TIMES
"This biography ... is so sympathetic to [Farrell's] character and his writing that it's nearly as good as having him back."

Book Description
The first biography of J.G. Farrell, author of The Singapore Grip and the Booker Prize-winning The Siege of Krishnapur.

SYNOPSIS

The first biography of J.G. Farrell, author of The Singapore Grip and the Booker Prize-winning The Siege of Krishnapur.

FROM THE CRITICS

Times

This biography ... is so sympathetic to [Farrell's] character and his writing that it's nearly as good as having him back.

Library Journal