The Ferryman
The Ferryman
Book Brief
Beta161
Play • Fiction
Northern Ireland • 1980s
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Ferryman by Jez Butterworth is a play set in rural Northern Ireland during the 1980s. It follows a family preparing for the annual harvest when past secrets emerge, intertwining with political tensions and personal struggles. The story captures the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of historical events on individual lives.
Gritty
Suspenseful
Dark
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
1,734 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Ferryman by Jez Butterworth has been widely praised for its gripping narrative and richly developed characters set during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Critics commend its emotional depth and complex family dynamics. However, some note its lengthy duration as a potential drawback. Overall, it's celebrated for its powerful storytelling and intense atmosphere.
Who Should Read The Ferryman?
Readers who appreciate The Ferryman by Jez Butterworth are drawn to intricate family sagas, historical tension, and strong emotional narratives. This play resonates with fans of Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt and Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, offering a vivid depiction of conflict and resilience.
1,734 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Ferryman premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in London in 2017 and achieved critical acclaim, making it one of the fastest West End transfers in recent years.
Jez Butterworth's inspiration for The Ferryman stemmed partly from a story told to him by his future wife, actress Laura Donnelly, whose own family experiences during the Troubles in Northern Ireland mirror aspects depicted in the play.
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The play won the 2019 Tony Award for Best Play, and its original West End production also garnered several Olivier Awards, highlighting its recognition on both sides of the Atlantic.
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161
Play • Fiction
Northern Ireland • 1980s
2017
Adult
18+ years
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