Book · 2020 · True Crime
Say Nothing
A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland
Why people recommend it
Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe is a deeply reported and gripping non-fiction book that explores the turbulent history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, focusing on the abduction and murder of Jean McConville and the broader political violence of the era. The book has garnered high praise from multiple cultural commentators across different podcasts. On an episode of Modern Wisdom, Vittorio Angelone discussed the title with Chris Williamson, urging his interlocutor to pick up the volume because he would thoroughly enjoy it. Later, on The Ezra Klein Show, Rob Malley brought up the book as his second reading suggestion during a conversation about conflict and diplomacy. Malley explained that although the book might initially seem unrelated to contemporary geopolitical discussions, it actually sheds profound light on the dilemmas of political struggle, justice, and the heavy costs associated with what individuals choose to kill and die for. Through these recommendations, the work is highlighted not just as a historical account of a specific regional conflict, but as a universal exploration of human morality, sacrifice, and the enduring shadows cast by civil strife in modern history.
Who recommended it
- Vittorio Angelone Recommended
- Rob Malley Recommended
Vittorio Angelone — 1 mention
“I was reading London Falling, Patrick Granf's new book. Um, you know Patrick Granke, he wrote Say Nothing. Um, you should read Say Say Say Nothing. I think you'd really like it.”
Rob Malley — 1 mention
“A second book that doesn't appear to have much to do with our discussion, but actually really does. It's about Northern Ireland, the dilemmas of struggle and justice and what one kills and dies for. And that's, uh, Say Nothing by Patrick Rat and Keefe.”