The Best Books of the 21st Century, from the New York Times
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Sign up todaySmall Things Like These
Narrator
Aidan Kelly
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Length
1 hour 56 minutes
Language
English
Bookseller recommendation
“A small and beautiful book of an Irish man and his discovery of a disturbing secret in the convent - highly recommended! One of my Top 3 Books of 2021!”
— Samantha • A Great Good Place for Books
Bookseller recommendation
“A small moving book about generosity, history, family and religion. Perfect for the holiday season when gratitude is on our minds. Bill Furlong didn’t come from much, but he had a benefactor. As he learns what is really happening in the “laundry” where young women end up, his memories of kindness move him to action. A quiet read that shows the power of a moral compass.”
— Andrea • Bookstore1Sarasota
Bookseller recommendation
“As Christmas approaches, I'm drawn back to this exquisite, tender, quiet yet powerful story of a comfortable Irish coal dealer who becomes discomfited by what he discovers behind the walls of a Magdalen laundry in 1985. The 1980s are hardly the distant past, and this slender book is a timely reminder of how society has often treated its young women, and also how bravery and compassion may surface in the most unlikely places. I know many of you are already familiar with this treasure by the extraordinary Claire Keegan, but if you aren't yet, now is the time.”
— Rachel • Celia Bookshop
Summary
The landmark new novel from award-winning author Claire Keegan
It is 1985 in a small Irish town. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, Bill Furlong, a coal merchant and family man, faces into his busiest season. Early one morning, while delivering an order to the local convent, Bill makes a discovery which forces him to confront both his past and the complicit silences of a town controlled by the church.
Already an international bestseller, Small Things Like These is a deeply affecting story of hope, quiet heroism, and empathy from one of our most critically lauded and iconic writers.
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