In this analysis of the first five novels of Roddy Doyle -- The Commitments, The Snapper, The Van, Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha, and The Woman Who Walked Into Doors -- Caramine White notes that while Doyle is undoubtedly one of the most popular contemporary novelists, he also needs to be seen as a serious and gifted writer.

She offers an overview of Doyle's work followed by a chapter devoted to the critical analysis of each of the five novels in which White scrutinizes Doyle's innovative use of language; his manipulation of his audience's reaction via comedy and humor; the role, however slight, of religion and politics; and his overall social vision as projected in each book and as part of a complete body of work.

Along with this standard for examination, prominent aspects of each of the individual novels are brought into light, for instance, the function of music in The Commitments; Sharon's character development in The Snapper; the grimness and despair in The Van; the use of double writing in Paddy Clarke; and the way Paula's life may be seen as a metaphor for the abuses women suffer in a patriarchal society in The Woman Who Walked into Doors.

This book includes an extensive interview with Roddy Doyle, a revealing biography of Doyle's life and how it is reflected in his writing, and an overview and brief analysis of Doyle's most recent novel, the critically acclaimed A Star Called Henry.