Book Review: ‘The Bee Sting,’ by Paul Murray

Paul Murray’s latest novel, “The Bee Sting,” tells the story of the Barnes family – a down-on-their-luck family who are facing a multitude of troubles. The story is set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crash, which has hit the Barneses hard. Dickie Barnes, the patriarch of the family, struggles to run the car dealership and garage franchise started by his father. To make matters worse, he has a knack for talking customers out of buying cars rather than selling them one. The Barneses also have to deal with a rogue mechanic who is damaging their reputation.

As the family faces dire straits, Dickie is forced to close one of his garages, and his wife, Imelda, begins selling their possessions to make ends meet. Their children, Cass and PJ, each have their own struggles to deal with. Cass is drinking her way through her finals, while PJ spends his days texting a stranger and planning to run away. Underneath these surface troubles, however, lurk inner demons that each family member must confront.

Imelda, through her stream-of-consciousness chapters, reveals the poverty and violence she experienced while growing up. She also recounts her love for Frank, Dickie’s brother, and the tragic circumstances of his death. Dickie, on the other hand, reflects on his secrets from his days as a Trinity College student, which are now coming back to haunt him. Cass grapples with her identity and future at Trinity, while PJ becomes the target of bullies.

Despite the bleakness of their circumstances, Murray’s writing is filled with joy, insight, and humor. He explores the contradictions of humanity and the complexity of life, revealing both the brutal and beautiful aspects of it. Through the Barneses’ struggles, Murray highlights the potential for change and the enduring power of hope.

In conclusion, “The Bee Sting” is an epic tale that delves into the challenges faced by the Barnes family. Murray’s writing is engaging and offers a mix of humor and profound observations. The novel invites readers to reflect on the contradictions of life and the potential for transformation.