In this novella, Claire Keegan tells the story of a young girl sent to live with foster parents, John and Edna Kinsella, on a farm in rural Ireland in the summer of 1981. The girl, who is unused to home comforts, finds affection and warmth in the Kinsellas' care and begins to blossom. However, the story is marked by an underlying tension and the eventual revelation of a secret that threatens her newfound happiness. The narrative explores themes of family, belonging, and the profound impact of kindness on a child's life. The book is praised for its sparse yet elegant prose and its ability to evoke powerful emotions through subtle storytelling.
Claire Keegan's "Small Things Like These" is a poignant novella set in rural Ireland during the 1980s. It centers on Bill Furlong, a hardworking coal merchant, who discovers a disturbing secret that forces him to confront the injustices of his community. The story unfolds with understated power, exploring themes of compassion, morality, and the enduring impact of the past. Keegan's prose is both spare and deeply affecting, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The novel's quiet intensity leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection on the choices we make and the consequences that follow.
This book offers a multifaceted narrative of Antarctica, weaving together its fascinating history, cutting-edge science, and the experiences of those who live and work there. It highlights the continent's unique wildlife, its role in understanding Earth's climate history, and the challenges posed by global warming. Walker's account is both a personal journey and a scientific exploration, capturing the essence of this mysterious continent.
The bestselling Irish author grew up on a farm set on “50 acres on the side of a hill”. Growing up, she witnessed a harsh, misogynistic country that convinced her she would never marry. Claire shares what she has learned about writing from a litter of newborn piglets.
Her works Small Things Like These and Foster have both been made into movies.
Claire's stories often take place in the landscape where she grew up — the farms and small towns of Wexford in Southeast Ireland.
Claire was the youngest of six children, and when she was born their farmhouse had no running water and few books.
Instead, Claire fell in love with horses.
As a small child she would go to the wood with her brother, who was a lumberjack.
Amongst the chainsaws and workmen, little Claire would drive a harnessed horse from behind, to the roadside, to help clear the heavy trees.
And as she grew older, she developed a fierce determination to live life on her own terms.
This episode was produced by Alice Moldovan. Conversations Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison. Presented by Sarah Kanowski.
This episode of Conversations touches on marriage, Magdalene laundries, contraception, Ireland, Catholicism, big Irish families, horsemanship, starting brumbies, skewbald Connemara pony, New Orleans, writing, literary prizes, farms, personal stories, epic life stories, family dynamics, Cillian Murphy and modern history.
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Listen to Sarah's interview with Queensland horseman, Ken Faulkner.
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