Headline: 72-Year-Old Author Releases Heartfelt Memoir of Irish Boyhood
At the remarkable age of 72, Eamon O’Leary has launched his first book, I’m A Big Boy Now, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the playful Irish boyhood of the late 1950s and 1960s. This engaging memoir chronicles a simpler time filled with adventure, camaraderie, and the occasional mischief, inviting readers to relive a world untouched by the distractions of modern technology.
A Journey Back to Innocence
In I’m A Big Boy Now, O’Leary vividly captures the essence of growing up in Ireland during a less frantic, more adventurous era. His book brings to life the joys of skinned knees and home-made go-karts, as well as the memories of snow-dusted Christmases, long summer days, and friendships that felt eternal. As a regular contributor to RTÉ Radio 1, O’Leary’s storytelling prowess shines through in his written work, further engaging audiences with tales drawn from his own boyhood experiences.
The reception of his memoir has been overwhelmingly positive, with reviews highlighting its charm. One reviewer on Goodreads noted, "This book is better than a tonic," while another exclaimed, "I haven’t laughed out loud like this for years."
Inside the Pages
The book is structured into four thematic parts: The Dubs, Heading West, The Kingdom, and The Real Capital. Each section unpacks unique stories and life lessons gained during O’Leary’s journey across Ireland—from Dublin to Kerry and Roscommon to Cork. He reflects on a time when children would gather for unstructured play, ride bikes for hours, and find adventure in everyday life.
O’Leary emphasizes, “It was a time of cowboys, hopscotch, and playing football on the road, and all the lessons that go into becoming a Big Boy.” He also recounts humorous anecdotes, like the childhood mishap of setting the house on fire—an incident he recalls as merely a mistake rather than a catastrophe.
From Retirement to Author
The inspiration for I’m A Big Boy Now arose after O’Leary retired, as he found himself seeking a creative outlet. Reflecting on school days when he dismissed the importance of English, he humorously admitted, “I was one of those geniuses who thought being able to speak the language was sufficient!” Despite initial challenges, including a painfully slow typing technique, his dedication to storytelling has paid off.
The writing process is meticulous for O’Leary. He notes, “When finished, I close the file and let it hibernate for at least three months.” Observing changes upon revisiting his work has helped him hone his craft, leading to a philosophy of "edit, edit, and then edit again."
A Shared Experience
O’Leary’s book is not merely a personal account; it’s a reflection on the collective experiences of many who grew up in a pre-digital age. He draws upon his family background, particularly his father’s career with Córas Iompair Éireann, which led the family to traverse Ireland, providing endless material for storytelling.
“This book is a reader’s passport to an Irish boyhood in a less frantic, more adventurous age,” O’Leary shared. He hopes that his memoir resonates with not just locals but anyone nostalgic for simpler times.
Where to Buy
For those eager to experience O’Leary’s heartfelt narration, I’m A Big Boy Now is available for purchase on Amazon and in local bookstores such as Carrigaline Bookshop, Kinsale Books, Kenmare Books, and Vibes and Scribes in Cork City. O’Leary encourages readers to support local booksellers rather than relying solely on online giants.
The Road Ahead
Looking to the future, O’Leary remains humble about his literary journey. “I’ll be happy to take four copies, put a little note in each, and put them away for my grandchildren," he stated. "And who knows, when they grow up and read it, maybe one of them might proudly say—‘My Granda wrote this.’”
Not one to rest solely on literary laurels, he laughingly added, "Yeah, I’m still playing terrible golf."
In a world increasingly dominated by screens and devices, I’m A Big Boy Now serves as a reminder of the value of storytelling and the beauty of childhood memories. For readers seeking a light-hearted but poignant read, this memoir promises to delight and inspire.
Eamon O’Leary’s journey into authorship at 72 serves as a testament that it’s never too late to follow a passion. How has nostalgia influenced your own creative endeavors? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
