This evocative opening takes us back instantly to the endless days of childhood, when friendships are forged that last a lifetime. We follow the three boys' adventures as they outwit the Ringers, climb Dalkey quarry, hero worship Tarzan, the lifeguard, observe a German submarine from a trawler in Dublin bay, and are rescued from drowning.

As the boys grow up their interests change - girls enter the scene, jobs and careers must be given attention and Lofty, now a doctor, emigrates to South Africa.

But the links are unbroken and the yarns and meetings continue, often now on walks down the west pier in Dun Laoghaire, or in the Eagle House, sheltered from the bitter east wind.

Remembering Seapoint, with its unsentimental view of life and its vicissitudes, is warm, funny and highly readable.