The Big Fellow

The Big Fellow is a distinctive 1937 biography of Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins by Frank O'Connor, covering the period from the 1916 Easter Rising to Collins's death in 1922. The author bases his account on extensive interviews with Collins's associates, particularly his secretary Joe O'Reilly. O'Connor focuses on Collins's personal character and human qualities rather than solely documenting his political achievements. The narrative provides an intimate view of Collins during the turbulent years of Ireland's struggle for independence and the subsequent civil war. The biography carries special significance as O'Connor himself fought on the opposing Anti-Treaty side during the Irish Civil War. His portrayal of Collins explores the complex relationships and internal conflicts that characterized this pivotal period in Irish history.

Readers consistently point to the intimate, human portrayal of Michael Collins rather than focusing solely on his public persona. The book provides details about his relationships, habits, and personality traits that make him relatable. Readers appreciated: - The blend of history and personal anecdotes - O'Connor's firsthand knowledge from having met Collins - Rich details about daily life during the period - Clear, accessible writing style Common criticisms: - Assumes too much prior knowledge of Irish history - Can be difficult to follow the timeline of events - Some found the narrative structure fragmented - Limited coverage of certain key historical moments Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (127 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (18 ratings) Notable reader quote: "O'Connor makes you feel like you're right there with Collins, seeing both the leader and the man behind the legend." - Goodreads reviewer

The Autobiography of Michael Collins by Tim Pat Coogan A first-hand account of the Irish revolutionary period through the life of Michael Collins, offering details of the same historical events from a different perspective.

The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton This memoir chronicles an Irish-American's journey through personal transformation during a time of social upheaval in the early 20th century.

Guerrilla Days in Ireland by Tom Barry A memoir from an IRA commander that provides parallel accounts of the Irish War of Independence from a military perspective.

On Another Man's Wound by Ernie O'Malley The author recounts his experiences as an IRA leader during the Irish War of Independence and Civil War, covering the same timeline as The Big Fellow.

My Fight for Irish Freedom by Dan Breen A participant's account of the Irish independence struggle that presents events from the perspective of a rebel fighter who worked alongside Collins.

🔷 Frank O'Connor served under Terence MacSwiney during the Irish War of Independence, and later fought against Michael Collins's Free State forces - making him one of the few biographers who personally experienced both sides of the conflict. 🔷 The book's title "The Big Fellow" comes from Collins's widely-used nickname, given to him due to his commanding presence despite being only 5'11" tall. 🔷 The biography was first published in 1937, just 15 years after Collins's death, when many of his contemporaries were still alive to provide fresh, firsthand accounts. 🔷 Joe O'Reilly, Collins's personal secretary who provided crucial information for the book, was present when Collins was ambushed and killed at Béal na Bláth in 1922. 🔷 The work became so definitive that it influenced multiple dramatic adaptations, including Neil Jordan's 1996 film "Michael Collins," where Liam Neeson studied the book extensively to capture Collins's personality.