BOOK BRIEF

That They May Face the Rising Sun

John McGahern
Guide cover placeholder

That They May Face the Rising Sun

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2002

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
John McGahern

That They May Face the Rising Sun

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rural Ireland • Contemporary

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In That They May Face the Rising Sun, individuals living in rural Ireland navigate daily life, community ties, and personal relationships. The narrative captures the rhythms of country life, focusing on themes of belonging, connection, and the passage of time within a close-knit community.

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Melancholic

Serene

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

3,188 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

John McGahern's That They May Face the Rising Sun is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of rural Irish life. Its subtle, meditative narrative captures the rhythm of daily existence, though some find the plot too slow-paced. Characters are richly developed, enhancing the intimate community portrayal. The novel's reflective style may not suit those preferring action-driven stories.

Who should read this

Who Should Read That They May Face the Rising Sun?

A reader who enjoys That They May Face the Rising Sun by John McGahern likely appreciates reflective rural narratives and deep character studies. Fans of Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë and Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy would find similar thematic richness and atmospheric settings engaging.

4.0

3,188 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Rural Ireland • Contemporary

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!