A small book, a novella, a delight. Set in 1986 in Ireland, Bill Furlong a kind compassionate man with four daughters. The crux of the story is how different his life could have been had his unwed mother not been taken in by the lady at the big house when pregnant - how his and his mothers life would have been blighted by the way that society, church and small town attitude when a child is born out of wedlock. While working a shift near Christmas - delivering coal, Bill comes across a young and pregnant girl,hiding in the outhouse of the local convent. A lot is implied, and some is explained: the difficulty in going against what is expected and accepted is beautifully written.
This book generated a great discussion about the Magdalene Laundries, Ireland and small town attitudes. Realistically written, and so well drawn in time. The tension in the writing is carefully crafted.
Words used to describe it: lyrical, too short, punchy, gut wrenching, hypnotic, finely etched, heart breaking
Marks out of 10: all gave this book either 8 or 9 so highly marked!
Next Book
A Fortunate Woman by Polly Morland (Emma)
Next Meeting
26th April - 36 Lysia St
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