BOOK REVIEW
Small Things Like These
Author: Claire Keegan
This is a simple, fairly short story, set in Ireland, a novella really, but captivating.
Bill Furlong’s mother gave birth to him at age sixteen while employed as a domestic servant in the protestant home of Mrs. Wilson. He never knew who his father was.
When he was twelve years old Bill’s mother died suddenly and Mrs Wilson, who was childless, took him under her wing.
Bill didn’t have the easiest of childhoods but he did attend
Technical College and later married Eileen and had five daughters.
Bill was a timber merchant and his work involved making deliveries from the yard and it was during one of his regular deliveries to the local convent that he suspected something was ‘not quite right’.
The convent housed young girls and their illegitimate babies and Bill’s suspicions were confirmed when he was confronted by an extremely concerning situation.
This story is so beautifully written, full of meaning and honesty at a time in Ireland where social issues were at the forefront.
The simplicity and warmth of Claire Keegan’s characters make it a truly memorable read.
ROSALIE HOWARTH
Author: Claire Keegan
This is a simple, fairly short story, set in Ireland, a novella really, but captivating.
Bill Furlong’s mother gave birth to him at age sixteen while employed as a domestic servant in the protestant home of Mrs. Wilson. He never knew who his father was.
When he was twelve years old Bill’s mother died suddenly and Mrs Wilson, who was childless, took him under her wing.
Bill didn’t have the easiest of childhoods but he did attend
Technical College and later married Eileen and had five daughters.
Bill was a timber merchant and his work involved making deliveries from the yard and it was during one of his regular deliveries to the local convent that he suspected something was ‘not quite right’.
The convent housed young girls and their illegitimate babies and Bill’s suspicions were confirmed when he was confronted by an extremely concerning situation.
This story is so beautifully written, full of meaning and honesty at a time in Ireland where social issues were at the forefront.
The simplicity and warmth of Claire Keegan’s characters make it a truly memorable read.
ROSALIE HOWARTH
