This book presents to us a very difficult time in Ireland's history. The story takes place during the Great Famine that began in 1845 in a place called Skibbereen. Skibbereen was one of the places that was hardest hit by Ireland's potato famine. A large percentage of its population starved to death and many people also migrated.

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The writing of the book is excellent. The author pulls her readers into the plight of the Irish people and shows it from several perspectives. Reading the book one feels like they understand the suffering the people went through and why they decided to leave their native land on mass. We also come a long way towards understanding why the Irish conflict with England became violent in the years following the famine.

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The various characters of the book are presented lovingly and there are many genuine heroes to admire in the story. The harshness of that time is described in an engaging way. The story telling focuses on people, which makes it very humane. At the same time it raises significant political and socio-economic questions. The books leaves you wanting to know more about the great Irish famine, Ireland's people, and its modern history (so deeply altered by these years of famine). It is a book that will make you love the Irish.

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This is a powerful book that will change the way you see Ireland. It is also interesting, and artfully written. However it is too poignant for reader younger than 17.