'Tis

By: Frank McCourt

Narrated by: Frank McCourt

Length: 14 hrs and 5 mins

Publisher's summary

The same vulnerable but invincible spirit that captured our hearts in the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir Angela's Ashes comes of age in 'Tis.

Listen as Frank tells in his own inimitable voice his story of how at the age of 19 he traveled from Limerick to New York in pursuit of the American dream. Despite the abundance of unsolicited advice he gets to "join the cops" and "stick to his own kind", Frank knows that he should educate himself and somehow rise above his circumstances.

And though he left school at 14, he talks his way into New York University, falls in love with the quintessential Yankee, long-legged and blond, and tries to live his dream. But it is not until he starts to teach - and to write - that Frank finds his place in the world. And for those of us who are lucky enough to come across his writings - and captivating readings - 'Tis a wonderful thing that he did.

©1999 Frank McCourt, All Rights Reserved (P)1999 Simon & Schuster Inc., All Rights Reserved, AUDIOWORKS Is an Imprint of Simon & Schuster Audio Division, Simon & Schuster Inc.

Wonderful, splendid and stunning example of heart

I want to listen to Mr. McCourt's stories about his life for the rest of my life. His beautiful narration and frank storytelling from his heart has allowed my soul to sing and soar. I love how he has delivered raw and honest thoughts and emotions that as human beings, we all have felt.

From Ireland to America: More from Frank McCourt

Any additional comments?

There is nothing like the audio versions of McCourt's memoirs, all of them read by the author. What could be more enticing than getting an answer to the reader's most compelling question: WHAT HAPPENED NEXT? In 'Tis, McCourt brings his young adult years in New York vividly to life: His struggle to survive working class poverty, loneliness, chronic health problems, and his deep, driving desire to have the education he had always longed for.

If you haven't listened to 'Tis, do yourself a favor and go for it. Also highly recommended are his audio narration of Angela's Ashes and Teacher Man.

Frank McCourt was a wonderful writer and is greatly missed.

Must read Angela's Ashes first!

I've read Angela's Ashes multiple times throughout my life. And this one does not disappoint!

'Tis appreciated Mr. McCourt

Thank you Mr. McCourt. You have left us a story in two books that epitomizes Irish-American dreams and our hope in God and love of life.
We all have a story to tell and in your books we feel your pain, rejoice in your victories, and cry at the death of Angela. We see our lives in your tale and share in your hope of a loving God.
I read that you died in 2009 and I will not be able to write you to tell you how much your books mean to me.
This will have to do.
However, I am Catholic and I will remember to occasionally say 3 Hail Marys for you and for your beloved mother and look forward to sharing a toast in heaven.
Randy

Amazing book.

this is an amazing book that has great insight into Irish Americans trying to make a living in the early days of America.

Another beautiful memoir

Frank McCourt is hilarious, somber, reflective, and extraordinarily entertaining. He reads about the ordinary and extraordinary circumstances of his life with great skill and a unique, straightforward style. I can't imagine this book having had the same charm read by anyone else. I literally chuckled aloud and sprouted tears throughout.

Less Cheerful than Angela's Ashes

Compared to the humorous and positive way of looking at a hard life in Angela's Ashes, 'Tis is much more negative. In fact, negativity runs through the entire book. If you're looking for a warm and loving book to cheer you up, don't touch this. This book will likely make you more depressed if you are already stressed. It is very matter-of-fact, but also a lot of whining and self-pity all the way throughout.

I like the author's direct style of saying things we all think but don't dare to say, and the story of how a lower-class born immigrant made a living starting from the bottom rung of society in New York City to a respectable profession. But the good humor is lost, and you as the reader are free to extract the deeper meaning in the indifference of the sons toward their mother, the failing relationship, the drinking, etc.

One of the best writers of all time

Everyone who is Irish should read this book and Angela’s Ashes. McCourt, may God rest his soul, was one of the last great writers and puts others to shame.

Terrifically moving and funny autobiography of an Irish immigrant in New York

This is one of the best autobiographies of the 20th century, and delightful as an audiobook read by the author.

The Great Story Continues

What did you love best about 'Tis?

It was interesting to see how Frank transitioned from young adult into adulthood. McCourt is a great reader and fun to listen to.

What did you like best about this story?

Each chapter is almost like a short story.There were many different tales and settings.

Which scene was your favorite?

I enjoyed the scenes from his classrooms. I'm anxious to read "Teacher Man."

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The change in attitude about Angela throughout the story in relation to "Angela's Ashes" stirs up emotion.

Any additional comments?

In reading other comments about disappointment in this story over "Angela's Ashes," I would have to disagree. "'Tis" is not "Angela's Ashes," but there is no way it could be. Frank is grown up in "'Tis." The wonder and innocence of childhood is no longer present, so that is something that cannot be found in this book. Certainly, Frank's humor and naivety are present in this book, but they are no longer childlike. They have, however, grown with his personality and have shaped him into an adult. I still laughed and cried. This book is worth the read.