Here, in one volume, are Roddy Doyle's three acclaimed novels about the Rabbitte family from Barrytown, Dublin. In them we follow the rapid rise of Jimmy Rabbitte's soul band, the Commitments, and their equally rapid fall; Sharon Rabbitte's attempts to keep the identity of her unborn child's father a secret, amid intense speculation from her family and friends; and the fortunes of the travelling fish 'n' chips van that Jimmy Rabbitte Sr and his friend Bimbo launch for the good people of Barrytown.
The Commitments
Still one of the freshest and funniest rock 'n' roll novels ever written, Doyle's first book portrays a group of aspiring musicians on a mission: to bring soul to Dublin.
The Snapper
Doyle's sparkling second novel observes the progression of twenty-year-old Sharon's pregnancy and its impact on the Rabbitte family - especially on her father, Jimmy Sr - with with, candor, and surprising authenticity.
The Van
Set during the heady days of Ireland's brief, euphoric triumphs in the 1990 World Cup, this Booker Prize nominee is a tender and hilarious tale of male friendship, midlife crisis, and family life.