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4.14 AVERAGE
4.14 AVERAGE
I've read this countless time over the last 25 years. Still a thundering read.
This is a book from my childhood that I absolutely fell in love with, and it still resonates with me today. Being Irish, the story deeply connects to my heritage, beautifully capturing the experiences during the Great Famine.
Following the journey of three siblings—Eily, Michael, and Peg—through such a harrowing time is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. McKenna portrays their struggles with authenticity, highlighting their resilience and the unbreakable bond they share. I found myself rooting for them every step of the way as they navigated the harsh realities of their world.
The vivid imagery of the Irish landscape, paired with the intense hardships faced by the characters, makes you feel like you’re right there with them. McKenna brings history to life in a personal and poignant way, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Overall, Under the Hawthorn Tree is a powerful story that has lingered in my heart since childhood. It’s a beautiful exploration of family, love, and resilience.
Following the journey of three siblings—Eily, Michael, and Peg—through such a harrowing time is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. McKenna portrays their struggles with authenticity, highlighting their resilience and the unbreakable bond they share. I found myself rooting for them every step of the way as they navigated the harsh realities of their world.
The vivid imagery of the Irish landscape, paired with the intense hardships faced by the characters, makes you feel like you’re right there with them. McKenna brings history to life in a personal and poignant way, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Overall, Under the Hawthorn Tree is a powerful story that has lingered in my heart since childhood. It’s a beautiful exploration of family, love, and resilience.
emotional
informative
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
A sad but powerful story about the harsh reality of the Irish Famine 🇮🇪. Told through the eyes of three brave siblings—Eily, Michael, and Peggy—this book shows how the famine affected everyone, especially children.
Their journey is heartbreaking at times, but somehow, against all odds, there’s a spark of hope that carries you through. The ending left me emotional in the best way possible. It’s a quick read, but one that definitely sticks with you!
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
challenging
emotional
sad
medium-paced
I read this and then reread this a thousand times when I was younger, along with its two sequels. This book taught me about a tragic time in Irish history before school ever did, and I loved the O'Driscoll children more than half my friends!
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
An absorbing read about the Irish Potato Famine and how it affected a poor family. Read in a single sitting.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No