In "The Wake of Yer Man," I aim to delve into Ireland's religious and political landscape during the 1990s, bringing to life the deep family connections and vibrant community of my upbringing in the Midlands. Through the narratives, my goal is to highlight significant historical and socio-political contexts, including characters like Mick McCabe, who at 96, lived in the bogland, and Auntie Pauline in "Betty’s Town," whose insights resonate with the Northern Ireland peace process and the evolving role of women in the Church, politics and community 1990’s Ireland. 

I carefully explore themes such as Ireland's economic conditions, the lives of peatland workers, and the resilient spirit of large families within the community. These stories aim to capture everyday life: from the communal support during harsh winters to the whimsical reign of Mutt Fennelly and vibrant personalities like Frank the barber.

Within these narratives are reflective moments that convey the innocent yet perceptive perspectives of a young girl. Central to the themes is the poignant tragedy of a mother raising nine children alone after the father's untimely death, celebrating the enduring strength and spirit of Ireland's people. All stories are conveyed through the eyes of this young girl, striving to bring authenticity and depth to every tale.

Step into the world of 1980s rural Ireland with No. 56, the captivating collection of short stories where the wake of yer man won hearts at the prestigious Jersey Festival of Words 2023. Delve into the essence of a bygone era,where community spirit thrived amidst the trials and triumphs of everyday life.

The stories journey through Mullingar and the quaint Derrygreenagh Park in Westmeath, where a ring of a hundredhouses pulsates with stories waiting to be told. At the heart of it all lies No. 56, the very house that sheltered myfamily and inspired this anthology. In each tale, experience the tapestry of human emotions woven with threads of tragedy, joy, poverty, and laughter. These stories transcend time, reminding us to find wonder in the ordinary and magic in the mundane. Let No. 56 be your time capsule that gleams with the everlasting spirit of a community that refuses to fade. Discover the extraordinary in the ordinary, one story at a time. Welcome to No. 56.