BREDA'S ISLAND

Answers to long-held mysteries in Breda Moriarity’s family dramatically change her life.

Her mother has never revealed any information about her father, not even his name. Why does Mom remain undocumented after leaving Ireland when she was pregnant, and why has Breda never met Granda? Lonely and angry—her colorfully glamorous mother is absorbed with her new beauty salon—“awkward and mousy,” blue-eyed Breda acts out in unacceptable ways. Mom decides to send her to stay with Granda on his farm near the village of Ballyglass for the summer before eighth grade. Breda is immediately enamored by the beauty of the land, but she is resentful toward and confused by Granda, who can be cold and bitter but surprises her with acts of generosity. He tells stories of banshees from Irish lore and has screaming night terrors. Amid a defiant, forbidden friendship with local girl Nellie Fahey, unexpected confessions, discovered information about Granda’s horrifying childhood, and a terrible accident that threatens his life, Breda finds answers to some pressing mysteries but not without resulting regrets and pain on all sides that leave future relationships uncertain. Foley describes settings and events in beautiful, descriptive language and employs evocative Irish expressions. The third-person narrative is devoted to Breda’s point of view, with italicized asides indicating her own thoughts and opinions, which are wholly in keeping with her age and experiences. Readers will empathize with Breda and wish her well.

Sad, tender, and immensely touching.