Sebastian Barry

Sebastian Barry is an acclaimed Irish novelist, playwright, and poet. He is known for his rich storytelling and has received numerous awards for his work, including the Costa Book of the Year award.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Days Without End

    Cover of 'Days Without End' by Sebastian Barry

    "Days Without End" is a historical fiction novel that follows the life of an Irish immigrant who enlists in the U.S. Army in the 1850s. The protagonist's experiences include fighting in the Indian Wars and the Civil War, as well as falling in love with a fellow soldier. The novel explores themes of identity, love, and survival in a brutal and unforgiving era of American history.

    The 4475th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. A Long Long Way

    Cover of 'A Long Long Way' by Sebastian Barry

    This novel vividly captures the harrowing experiences of a young Irish soldier caught in the brutal trenches of World War I. As he navigates the horrors of war, he also grapples with the complex political tensions of his homeland, torn between loyalty to the British forces and the rising call for Irish independence. Through his journey, the protagonist confronts the brutal realities of conflict, the bonds of camaraderie, and the personal quest for identity amidst the chaos of war and the shifting landscapes of early 20th-century Ireland. The narrative combines historical detail with profound emotional depth, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the devastating impact of war on the human spirit.

    The 7870th Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. The Secret Scripture

    Cover of 'The Secret Scripture' by Sebastian Barry

    "The Secret Scripture" is a deeply moving tale of Roseanne McNulty, a centenarian who has spent most of her life in a mental institution in Ireland. As the institution is about to be demolished, her psychiatrist Dr. Grene must determine whether she's fit to be released. As he delves into her past, Roseanne reveals her life story through a secret memoir she's been writing. The narrative alternates between Roseanne's recollections and Dr. Grene's observations, revealing a tragic and complex history of Ireland's social and political changes, while also exploring themes of memory, identity, and sanity.

    The 8767th Greatest Book of All Time

  4. 4. Temps Immemorials

    Cover of 'Temps Immemorials' by Sebastian Barry

    The novel is a poignant exploration of memory, identity, and the passage of time, centered around the life of an elderly woman named Lilly. As she navigates the complexities of her past and present, Lilly reflects on her experiences of love, loss, and resilience, revealing the intricate tapestry of her life. Through her introspective journey, the narrative delves into themes of family, history, and the enduring impact of personal and collective memories, offering a deeply moving portrayal of the human condition.