Fun And Games by John Patrick McHugh:

John is a seventeen year old, who lives in a small village in the west of Ireland.  His nickname is ‘Tits’, as his mum sexted someone and the picture went viral.  As a result, his parents are separated.  He’s in a loose relationship with Amber, a slightly older girl.  John is still in love with his first girlfriend.  The novel plays out over these events, his sister’s wedding and his games for the local Gaelic football team.  

It’s a timeless tale, so let me tell you it’s set in 2009.  Your shagging playlist on an MP3 is nine songs, an animation of an envelope being folded proves your text is sent.  Its main theme however, is not nostalgia but how men relate to men and how they, in turn relate to women.  

There’s plenty of teenage shagging between John and Amber - hot, sweaty and furtive. The main themes have been done before though, and as a result the action grows a little episodic. Plus, the relationship between John And  Amber takes a turn in the last third and it doesn’t really seem credible and the novel ends on a question mark.  

Viewed with modern eyes, however John can be seen as having ADHD and body dysmorphia. However, this is a dark, solipsistic read but lacks narrative pace.

It’s published by Harper Collins on April 24th and I thank them for a preview copy.  #funandgames