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O Now!
Not yet published
Expected 10 Nov 26From novelist Niall Williams, bestselling author of Time of the Child and This Is Happiness, a new story set in the small Irish town of Faha, exploring love, loss, and the "why" of life
Mossie Crowe, known as "Ganga," is that rare man who is beloved by everyone who knows him and is particularly cherished by his best friend, Bat. On one ordinary October day, Bat interrupts their usual evening tea to ask Ganga why God created the earth. But when Ganga passes away that night, Bat finds himself at a loss, without his friend and without an answer to his question. Over the next days, as all of Faha comes to care for and honor the body of the man they loved, Bat begins a new journey towards understanding life, death, and love.
A tender exploration of life's many meanings, O Now! is a perfect gift for readers who loved Niall Williams' previous Faha novels and features an all-new essay from Niall exploring Faha's creation and legacy.
Mossie Crowe, known as "Ganga," is that rare man who is beloved by everyone who knows him and is particularly cherished by his best friend, Bat. On one ordinary October day, Bat interrupts their usual evening tea to ask Ganga why God created the earth. But when Ganga passes away that night, Bat finds himself at a loss, without his friend and without an answer to his question. Over the next days, as all of Faha comes to care for and honor the body of the man they loved, Bat begins a new journey towards understanding life, death, and love.
A tender exploration of life's many meanings, O Now! is a perfect gift for readers who loved Niall Williams' previous Faha novels and features an all-new essay from Niall exploring Faha's creation and legacy.
96 pages, Hardcover
First published October 8, 2026
About the author
Niall Williams
31 books2,343 followersNiall Williams studied English and French Literature at University College Dublin and graduated with a MA in Modern American Literature. He moved to New York in 1980 where he married Christine Breen. His first job in New York was opening boxes of books in Fox and Sutherland's Bookshop in Mount Kisco. He later worked as a copywriter for Avon Books in New York City before leaving America with Chris in 1985 to attempt to make a life as a writer in Ireland. They moved on April 1st to the cottage in west Clare that Chris's grandfather had left eighty years before to find his life in America.
His first four books were co-written with Chris and tell of their life together in Co Clare.
In 1991 Niall's first play THE MURPHY INITIATIVE was staged at The Abbey Theatre in Dublin. His second play, A LITTLE LIKE PARADISE was produced on the Peacock stage of The Abbey Theatre in 1995. His third play, THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT, was produced by Galway's Druid Theatre Company in 1999.
Niall's first novel was FOUR LETTERS OF LOVE. Published in 1997, it went on to become an international bestseller and has been published in over twenty countries. His second novel, AS IT IS IN HEAVEN was published in 1999 and short-listed for the Irish Times Literature Prize. Further novels include THE FALL OF LIGHT, ONLY SAY THE WORD, BOY IN THE WORLD and its sequel, BOY AND MAN.
In 2008 Bloomsbury published Niall's fictional account of the last year in the life of the apostle, JOHN.
His new novel, HISTORY OF THE RAIN, will be published by Bloomsbury in the UK/Ireland and in the USA Spring 2014. (Spanish and Turkish rights have also been sold.)
Niall has recently written several screenplays. Two have been optioned by film companies.
His first four books were co-written with Chris and tell of their life together in Co Clare.
In 1991 Niall's first play THE MURPHY INITIATIVE was staged at The Abbey Theatre in Dublin. His second play, A LITTLE LIKE PARADISE was produced on the Peacock stage of The Abbey Theatre in 1995. His third play, THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT, was produced by Galway's Druid Theatre Company in 1999.
Niall's first novel was FOUR LETTERS OF LOVE. Published in 1997, it went on to become an international bestseller and has been published in over twenty countries. His second novel, AS IT IS IN HEAVEN was published in 1999 and short-listed for the Irish Times Literature Prize. Further novels include THE FALL OF LIGHT, ONLY SAY THE WORD, BOY IN THE WORLD and its sequel, BOY AND MAN.
In 2008 Bloomsbury published Niall's fictional account of the last year in the life of the apostle, JOHN.
His new novel, HISTORY OF THE RAIN, will be published by Bloomsbury in the UK/Ireland and in the USA Spring 2014. (Spanish and Turkish rights have also been sold.)
Niall has recently written several screenplays. Two have been optioned by film companies.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
July 30, 2026
I made a journey back to Niall Williams’ Irish town of Faha in a heartfelt story of friendship, compassion, community and love. I’m a such a fan of the author’s beautiful writing and this short novella is just one more illustration of it. For fans of Williams, this is a must read. If you loved Faha and the people there in his previous novels, you will love them even more .
Bat in one of his frequent visits with Ganga, the only friend he ever had asks “Why did God create the world?”. If that’s too religious for you, perhaps you could look at this philosophically questioning what is this life we lead all about. Bat says they should make a pact and whoever goes first could come back and answer the question. Such a moving moment when the question is answered.
I find it difficult to write reviews about short fiction for fear of giving too much of the story away. So I’m going to just say that this is a beautifully written story that touched my heart. I absolutely loved the essay at the end where Williams gives us a lovely look at how his Faha came to be and the personal inspiration for History of the Rain, as well as This Is Happiness, and Time of the Child. One of my very favorite things to find at the end of a story ! It’s as beautifully written as his fiction. All of this reminds me that I really should read his books that I haven’t yet read . Will be in the running for my favorite of the year .
I received a copy of this book from Macmillan through Edelweiss.
Bat in one of his frequent visits with Ganga, the only friend he ever had asks “Why did God create the world?”. If that’s too religious for you, perhaps you could look at this philosophically questioning what is this life we lead all about. Bat says they should make a pact and whoever goes first could come back and answer the question. Such a moving moment when the question is answered.
I find it difficult to write reviews about short fiction for fear of giving too much of the story away. So I’m going to just say that this is a beautifully written story that touched my heart. I absolutely loved the essay at the end where Williams gives us a lovely look at how his Faha came to be and the personal inspiration for History of the Rain, as well as This Is Happiness, and Time of the Child. One of my very favorite things to find at the end of a story ! It’s as beautifully written as his fiction. All of this reminds me that I really should read his books that I haven’t yet read . Will be in the running for my favorite of the year .
I received a copy of this book from Macmillan through Edelweiss.
September 10, 2026
The author is a remarkable writer. I love his books for the way he examines life's complexities without bogging down the reader. This novella focuses on the friendship of Ganga and Bat two old men in Faha who meet regularly at Ganga's home. Their conversations are sparse, yet there is an agreement that who ever dies first should answer the question "Why did God create the world?"
When Ganga dies his friend waits for the answer. There is a lovely ending and the answer unfolds. Ganga"s dog Joe is a sweet addition.
There is a bonus at the end, an autobiographical essay by the author...beautiful.
Thank you to Netgalley for an a copy to read and review
When Ganga dies his friend waits for the answer. There is a lovely ending and the answer unfolds. Ganga"s dog Joe is a sweet addition.
There is a bonus at the end, an autobiographical essay by the author...beautiful.
Thank you to Netgalley for an a copy to read and review
Review of advance copy
I listened to a version of this novel which was commissioned from Niall Williams for a BBC radio 4 podcast. When published the novel may possibly differ slightly. I really enjoyed listening to the excellent narration by Dermot Crowley but I prefer reading Niall Williams on the page as his language is so beautiful that it deserves to be dwelt upon.
This novel is set in Faha, the location of previous Williams novels. Ganga Crowe, last seen in This is Happiness is now living alone in his farmhouse with his faithful sheepdog Joe. His main company is his neighbour Bat Considine who visits him for dinner several evenings a week. Bat is fascinated by the question of whether the spirit is real and what becomes of us after death. He makes an agreement with Ganga that whoever goes first shall come back and give the other a sign if there is anything beyond the grave.
I won't give away any spoilers but I found it to be a beautiful and uplifting story which examines the puzzles we all face.
This novel is set in Faha, the location of previous Williams novels. Ganga Crowe, last seen in This is Happiness is now living alone in his farmhouse with his faithful sheepdog Joe. His main company is his neighbour Bat Considine who visits him for dinner several evenings a week. Bat is fascinated by the question of whether the spirit is real and what becomes of us after death. He makes an agreement with Ganga that whoever goes first shall come back and give the other a sign if there is anything beyond the grave.
I won't give away any spoilers but I found it to be a beautiful and uplifting story which examines the puzzles we all face.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A lovely little gem. Coming out in November. This was my introduction to Niall Williams, an author I've had on my list to try, and I'll be going back for more. A glimpse of a small town in County Clare, Ireland through a deep and beautiful friendship between two elderly men.
October 9, 2026
Short account of Bat and Ganga two Irish gentleman who meet three times a week for companionship. Their friendship goes back years and when Ganga dies , Bat finally understands the truth of Ganga and himself. Some insights into the history of Irish wakes . Gentle read .
October 14, 2026
Gorgeous. I need to wallow now! 🧦
October 17, 2026
It might be a slight addition to Williams’ wonderful world of Faha (in the west of Ireland, as lovingly described in his previous three books), but it is a delightful treat of a book.
Highly recommended for anyone already familiar with Faha. Just sink back in to the melodious rhythms of speech.
In addition to the long short story (56 pages), Williams’ includes a short essay about the genesis of his Faha stories, which is a generous response to readers who often want to know where a story comes from.
I also appreciated the illustrations at the beginning of each chapter.
Highly recommended for anyone already familiar with Faha. Just sink back in to the melodious rhythms of speech.
In addition to the long short story (56 pages), Williams’ includes a short essay about the genesis of his Faha stories, which is a generous response to readers who often want to know where a story comes from.
I also appreciated the illustrations at the beginning of each chapter.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved History of the Rain and This is Happiness. I couldn't quite get into Time of the Child - I think I DNFd it halfway through which is very unusual for me - but this little story makes me want to go back and finish. I love being in Faha.
This little novella is full of humor and sadness, and some incredibly beautiful lines. One in particular stuck out to me - "the vulnerability of another is always a doorway and some part of him went through it".
This little novella is full of humor and sadness, and some incredibly beautiful lines. One in particular stuck out to me - "the vulnerability of another is always a doorway and some part of him went through it".
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Divided into two parts - a short story and then a short essay about Niall Williams philosophy on writing. I liked the short story and loved the essay. The story reminded me of the work of Claire Keegan, very charming and cozy. Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy! O Now! comes out on 11/10.
Review of advance copy
I listened to the audiobook version of this wonderful book on Spotify (UK).
I loved This Is Happiness, I'll recommend it to any who'll listen. Now I'll ensure they certainly pick up O Now! in time, as it is equally beautiful in the way of a gentle, lyrical gem. May Faha live in many hearts. Perfect.
I loved This Is Happiness, I'll recommend it to any who'll listen. Now I'll ensure they certainly pick up O Now! in time, as it is equally beautiful in the way of a gentle, lyrical gem. May Faha live in many hearts. Perfect.
Review of advance copy
Listened to this on radio 4. Niall Williams writing is beautifully descriptive and very moving. Will buy the book later this year to rediscover his use of language. A new author for me so will be looking to read more.
October 14, 2026
“Start from here, take your time and then get lost.” O Now indeed.
I love a simple read about people being people, not in a remarkable way but always peculiar as there is no such thing as normal (p. 68). Going to go read more Niall Williams, see ya there.
I love a simple read about people being people, not in a remarkable way but always peculiar as there is no such thing as normal (p. 68). Going to go read more Niall Williams, see ya there.
Review of advance copy
Audiobook from BBC Sounds
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Should be included in a short story collection. Too short to be included in a special edition (including an essay/commentary).
Want to Read
July 30, 2026Ganga!!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A lovely meditation on life, relationships, and death.
August 27, 2026
Had as an audio on BBC Sounds. 4 chapters of about 20 minutes each. Tale of old age and a rural Irish community reacting to a death. Beautiful light touch writing.
Read
October 13, 2026O Yes!
Another absorbing, heart melting book of joy from my favourite author. The gaps in my book shelves await more Niall Williams.
Another absorbing, heart melting book of joy from my favourite author. The gaps in my book shelves await more Niall Williams.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews