Sebastian Barry's compelling novel challenges concepts of memory and
recollection.
In preparation for the closure the psychiatric hospital, Dr Grene is assessing the last remaining patients, including Roseanne McNualty who
is approaching her 100th birthday. A review of her case file with letters from the parish priest dating to the time of her admittance is at variance to
her own recollection of her early life.
Much of the story is set during that troubled period of Irish history, the Civil
War which divided families and friends.
Barry writes with great insight and lyricism but I didn't like the ending of the book.