Oranges from Spain

by David Park

ORANGES FROM SPAIN is a collection of stories about of the trials of growing up in a community where tension, confusion and violence hold sway. Here, among other tales, a youthful seaside romance crosses the religious divide, a gang take turns at the wheel of a stolen car, and an exceptional student stirs the resentment of her troubled teacher. Set in Northern Ireland against the background of the troubles, these vignettes capture the spirit of adolescence in difficult times.

Genres: Short Stories, Fiction

190 pages, Hardcover

First published October 27, 1992

Reviews

[Libby Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

David Park has become one of my favourite authors. His writing style is almost painfully beautiful. Park’s work can also help anyone who may want to begin to understand the puzzle that is Northern Ireland.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Park's detail for the ordinary moments makes him an extraordinary writer. The ability to turn his narrative with ease, and flawlessly, from the sublime to the unexpected.

[Carolyn Cahalane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brave and haunting. As usual, Park's language seems chosen for communicating a feeling, image or sound that is important and never feels like showing off. Themes such as masculinity and parent-child relationships are explored convincingly.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a compelling book of short stories. Many of them are so beautifully evocative that they bring a tear to the eye......especially given the subject matter of 'The Troubles'. These stories bring home the human cost of conflict and sectarianism in a very real and relatable way.

[Anne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Short stories about young people growing up in Belfast, I wasnt particularly impressed by these.

[Jenn · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried a few times to get into this one as it seemed like an interesting premise. Eventually, I just gave up and BookCrossed it somewhere. (Alas, it has yet to be picked up/journaled!)

[a. · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn't hold my attention. Interesting idea, just for me it wasn't a rich enough story.