Father Frank

I really loved this book. Frank starts out as a young man who really doesn't know what to do with himself when his school career finishes. On the advice of a guidance counsellor, he enrols in Oxford to study Theology, with his marks that is the only course he can get into anyway -theology not being such a popular subject and people to fill places in the course hard to find. Surprisingly, Frank turns out to be rather good at it, depite the fact that he doesn't believe in God, or even a higher power. He then goes on to become a Priest. In order to meet people and raise some funds for his church, he drives a cab in his spare time, which is completely charitable, you can donate whatever you wish and he will take you wherever you wish in London. One day a beautiful girl hops in, and in spite of himself he finds his feelings for her grow. She even starts calling his cab on vague pretexts. The most lovable thing about Franks character is that he really is a good man, and never compromises himself. There is quite a lot of drama with the church, trying to get the hall renovated and people interested in going there again. A really fun read with a happy ending, but beautifully written and funny too. Highly recommended.

The previous review outlined the plot. All I will say is that this book is the most humourous and rivetting read I have experienced in over 30 years. Then once you have finished the book the thought provoking issues behind the story come though. This author is a genius and very very funny.

I read Father Frank on the advice of a friend earlier this year. We were camping and I needed a new book to read. I was expecting a simple, funny beach read and I got that, but it is also much more than that. Francis Dempsey, a lapsed Irish Catholic, gets into Oxford to study theology and eventually becomes a priest, despite his total lack of belief in a higher power. The book, pleasant and enjoyable to read, manages to tackle subjects like faith, sex and the role of religion in every day life without preaching and author Paul Burke does a surprisingly good job of it. The seemingly silly, unbelievable plotline works brilliantly thanks to Burke's impressive comedic talent. This is a purely fun read, and one that will, amazingly enough, leave you pondering faith. Outraegeously funny, sometimes heartbreaking, 'Father Frank' should be required reading for everyone who ever questioned God, and love.