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Owl Song at Dawn
As featured on Radio 4's Woman's Hour Shortlisted for the Amazon Rising Star Award Longlisted for the Guardian Not the Booker prize 2016 Hive Rising Writer for 2016 '[A] quirky, moving novel' -- The Daily Mail 'Fresh, poignant and unlike anything else' -- Jill Dawson, Whitbread and Orange Prize-shortlisted author 'Tender and unflinching, a beautifully observed novel' -- Carys Bray, Costa Prize-shortlisted author 'It crept under my skin and will stay there for a long time' -- Emma Henderson, Orange Prize-shortlisted author ' fierce, intelligent, compassionate and deeply moving' -- Edward Hogan, Desmond Elliot Prize-winning author 'Funny, heartbreaking and truly remarkable' -- Susan Barker, New York Times bestselling author Stylist Magazine Top 'Books to Read on a Staycation' ' Owl Song at Dawn is a book that should go straight onto bestseller and prize-winning lists.' -- Byte the Book 'This is a gripping novel by a hugely gifted writer and one that is rich on atmosphere and character study.' -- London Grip 'It's been a long while since a book given me physical goose bumps while reading. This was not as a result of horror, or shocks, but because it was so beautifully written from beginning to end.' -- Little Bookness Lane 'A heartfelt story about love and acceptance' -- Open Letters Monthly 'What a tour de force. Owl Song At Dawn is, quite simply, an outstanding novel.' -- Linda's Book Bag ' Owl Song at Dawn is a truly touching story about family, loss, guilt, friendship and forgiveness, and the charming characters are those that stay with you long beyond the final pages of the book.' -- A View from the Balcony ' Owl Song At Dawn is an original and thought-provoking debut that is readable and engaging whilst packing a punch.' -- One More Page 'Poignant and rich' -- Litro 'an ultimately uplifting and positive book with life lessons for us all' -- Mad House Family Reviews 'Emma Claire Sweeney however has put such a lovely book together that combines grief, loss, love and laughter. I can highly recommend it!' -- Butterflyinthesky ' Owl Song at Dawn is remarkable, tender and heart-warming with realistically flawed characters. This is a beautifully written and uplifting novel that teaches compassion and provides life lessons for us all.' -- Her Nose Stuck in a Book Maeve Maloney is a force to be reckoned with. Despite nearing eighty, she keeps Sea View Lodge just as her parents did during Morecambe's 1950s heyday. But now only her employees and regular guests recognise the tenderness and heartbreak hidden beneath her spikiness. Until, that is, Vincent shows up. Vincent is the last person Maeve wants to see. He is the only man alive to have known her twin sister, Edie. The nightingale to Maeve's crow, the dawn to Maeve's dusk, Edie would have set her sights on the stage all things being equal. But, from birth, things never were. If only Maeve could confront the secret past she shares with Vincent, she might finally see what it means to love and be loved a lesson that her exuberant yet inexplicable twin may have been trying to teach her all along. A powerful and touching debut inspired by the author's autistic sister, perfect for fans of Karen Joy Fowler, Nathan Filer and Maggie O'Farrell.
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 2, 2017
3.5 Maeve is nearing eighty and except for her time in college has never lived anywhere else but in Sea View Lodge. A Lodge that caters to the mentally and physically disadvantage, and where two young people with Downs syndrome live and work. This is now her life now, but she once had a twin sister, Edie, a sister who was born mentally and physically handicapped, a sister she loved very much. A sister her mother and father kept at home despite pressure from the doctors and social services to institutionalize her, a sister whose eventual fate causes her unending grief and guilt. Then a friend from the past arrives and just maybe she can come to terms with her past.
This book was inspired by the Author's own sister and it is a emotional but worthy read. The pressure in the fifties and sixties to sterilize these unfortunate children, to institutionalize them and basically to forget about them and concentrate on their remaining family members, heartbreaking. Maeve's story as she tries to live her own life, while always including her sister, was just full of lobe and hope. Things don't turn out as planned for her but she makes the most of what she has left by catering to and helping others less fortunate. The present story and the past story were equally compelling, something that I very rarely find in books that skip back and forth in time. I enjoyed these characters, and in between we hear from Edie herself, in the special way she thinks and feels. Added a personal touch and insight as well. All in all a very good and heartfelt story.
ARC from Netgalley.
This book was inspired by the Author's own sister and it is a emotional but worthy read. The pressure in the fifties and sixties to sterilize these unfortunate children, to institutionalize them and basically to forget about them and concentrate on their remaining family members, heartbreaking. Maeve's story as she tries to live her own life, while always including her sister, was just full of lobe and hope. Things don't turn out as planned for her but she makes the most of what she has left by catering to and helping others less fortunate. The present story and the past story were equally compelling, something that I very rarely find in books that skip back and forth in time. I enjoyed these characters, and in between we hear from Edie herself, in the special way she thinks and feels. Added a personal touch and insight as well. All in all a very good and heartfelt story.
ARC from Netgalley.
July 20, 2016
4★
A book full of heart, warmth, and uncomfortable truths. The author explains in an afterword that this was inspired by one of her own sisters, a twin who has cerebral palsy and autism, and by her parents who did not take their doctor’s advice to institutionalise her and concentrate instead on the author and the other twin. It seems obvious to me that Sweeney knows whereof she writes!
Edie Maloney is the similarly afflicted twin while Maeve is the ‘normal’ one who dotes on her, as do her parents and their friends. Nobody knows if the girls were identical except for the extra chromosome. Edie is clumsy, loud, delightful, difficult, and child-like. She can sing and shouts out verses and phrases.
“Edith Maloney sings like a star!”
and
“What noise does a horse make? Home, James, and don’t spare the horses. Edith Mary Maloney, Sea View Lodge, 31 Marine Road West.”
Nearly 80 now, Maeve reminisces, conversing with Edie in her head. She goes back and forth between today and their youth, when their parents ran a holiday boarding house, Sea View Lodge.
“ ‘Don’t you and Maeve both look snazzy,' Dad tells you. ‘My beautiful waifs and strays.’”
and
“My waifs and strays are the cleverest and most beautiful twins in the seven seas.”
Maeve now runs the lodge, a favourite of disabled visitors, and some of the staff have disabilities. A singer from "Aspy Fella A Capella” greets a startled guest, while Steph manages the front desk and check-ins. Maeve remembers:
“Steph could almost be mistaken for one of those poor Chinese cockle-pickers who perished on our sands. But, not long after her birth, her mum and dad had been on the verge of tears when I’d called Steph a Mongoloid. I’d taken care never again to say it out loud although I still found it a lovely word—full of horses journeying across the steppes. I couldn’t think why the likes of Trish and Dave preferred to lumber their child with a syndrome; why they preferred to honour Doctor Down, who shut people away in an asylum.”
Maeve has admirers, and they accept and include Edie, but eventually government services begin to intervene to consider appropriate care. A doctor assesses Edie.
“As he examines you, I see him register your crooked teeth, your wonky toes and unshaven armpits. He does not seem to notice the length of your coppery eyelashes; your perfect earlobes, soft as rabbit-down; the arch of your eyebrows; your fulsome lips. He does not see my twin. The girl who laughs and jokes and sings; a girl who is stubborn and fearsome and strong.”
Jump to “today”, and we find elderly Maeve dealing with the government regarding Steph and Len, another Downs Syndrome son of friends, who does gardening at the Sea View Lodge and is sweet on Steph. Well, they’re sweet on each other, which has begun raising eyebrows and questions.
The back and forth, the comparison between then and now and the various personalities, parents, and carers is sensitively handled. We can see Maeve’s blindness to the truth of her situation long before she does, and for me, the discussion of her young love-life and its repercussions into her old age seemed repetitive and unnecessarily long. It got a bit schmaltzy, if I can use that old term, but it was real. Her pain was her pain, and we do feel for her.
The fear of government support services and institutions is also very real, and many young people with disabilities are still just lumped together with anyone needing care, no matter what age or level of mental capacity.
I’d like to think that we’ll get better at it one day. Thanks to NetGalley and Legend Press for an advanced copy from which I’ve quoted, so some quotations may have changed. And thanks to the author for a lovely book which I hope opens some government eyes.
A book full of heart, warmth, and uncomfortable truths. The author explains in an afterword that this was inspired by one of her own sisters, a twin who has cerebral palsy and autism, and by her parents who did not take their doctor’s advice to institutionalise her and concentrate instead on the author and the other twin. It seems obvious to me that Sweeney knows whereof she writes!
Edie Maloney is the similarly afflicted twin while Maeve is the ‘normal’ one who dotes on her, as do her parents and their friends. Nobody knows if the girls were identical except for the extra chromosome. Edie is clumsy, loud, delightful, difficult, and child-like. She can sing and shouts out verses and phrases.
“Edith Maloney sings like a star!”
and
“What noise does a horse make? Home, James, and don’t spare the horses. Edith Mary Maloney, Sea View Lodge, 31 Marine Road West.”
Nearly 80 now, Maeve reminisces, conversing with Edie in her head. She goes back and forth between today and their youth, when their parents ran a holiday boarding house, Sea View Lodge.
“ ‘Don’t you and Maeve both look snazzy,' Dad tells you. ‘My beautiful waifs and strays.’”
and
“My waifs and strays are the cleverest and most beautiful twins in the seven seas.”
Maeve now runs the lodge, a favourite of disabled visitors, and some of the staff have disabilities. A singer from "Aspy Fella A Capella” greets a startled guest, while Steph manages the front desk and check-ins. Maeve remembers:
“Steph could almost be mistaken for one of those poor Chinese cockle-pickers who perished on our sands. But, not long after her birth, her mum and dad had been on the verge of tears when I’d called Steph a Mongoloid. I’d taken care never again to say it out loud although I still found it a lovely word—full of horses journeying across the steppes. I couldn’t think why the likes of Trish and Dave preferred to lumber their child with a syndrome; why they preferred to honour Doctor Down, who shut people away in an asylum.”
Maeve has admirers, and they accept and include Edie, but eventually government services begin to intervene to consider appropriate care. A doctor assesses Edie.
“As he examines you, I see him register your crooked teeth, your wonky toes and unshaven armpits. He does not seem to notice the length of your coppery eyelashes; your perfect earlobes, soft as rabbit-down; the arch of your eyebrows; your fulsome lips. He does not see my twin. The girl who laughs and jokes and sings; a girl who is stubborn and fearsome and strong.”
Jump to “today”, and we find elderly Maeve dealing with the government regarding Steph and Len, another Downs Syndrome son of friends, who does gardening at the Sea View Lodge and is sweet on Steph. Well, they’re sweet on each other, which has begun raising eyebrows and questions.
The back and forth, the comparison between then and now and the various personalities, parents, and carers is sensitively handled. We can see Maeve’s blindness to the truth of her situation long before she does, and for me, the discussion of her young love-life and its repercussions into her old age seemed repetitive and unnecessarily long. It got a bit schmaltzy, if I can use that old term, but it was real. Her pain was her pain, and we do feel for her.
The fear of government support services and institutions is also very real, and many young people with disabilities are still just lumped together with anyone needing care, no matter what age or level of mental capacity.
I’d like to think that we’ll get better at it one day. Thanks to NetGalley and Legend Press for an advanced copy from which I’ve quoted, so some quotations may have changed. And thanks to the author for a lovely book which I hope opens some government eyes.
August 13, 2016
I still yearn to read you, Edie, to understand what was going on in your mind.
3.5 stars. Owl Song at Dawn was inspired by the author's sister, who has autism - and I think this is probably why it feels so very real. Unlike most of the novels that focus on children with disabilities, this tells the story of two teenage sisters, one born with Downs Syndrome and severe learning difficulties. Maeve is such a strong character, we meet her when she is already in her seventies - she is wise, compassionate, but also bitter and stubborn - and through flashback chapters we get to see what events has made her into who she is today. There were a lot of things I loved about this book: the fact that every chapter ends with Edie's version of what happened, in her own "language". The fact that we get to see how perceptions on disabilities has changed over time. The unsentimental, yet touching writing. The amazing cast of characters: especially the girls dad, Len and Dot. The story itself focuses on loss, regret and loneliness, but also on different types of love, acceptance and hope.
July 11, 2016
This is a haunting read following Maeve who runs a boarding house that caters for disabled guests and their carers- even though she is now in her 80’s. Her parents ran Sea View Lodge in Morecambe and she grew up there with her disabled twin- Edie.
I have twins, one of whom has autism- so the premise of the book really called out to me and themes throughout the book really spoke volumes. The twins in the book were born at 35 weeks like mine and one had the delayed development- so this brought back many memories, some quite painful.
It dealt with how disabilities were treated in the 50’s and earlier- when disabled children could normally expect a life in care- but just what can be achieved to make their life happy and that they feel the centre of a loving family. But also how those same disabilities have a far reaching effect on all those round them. Although you love them unconditionally- the course of your life is changed forever alongside theirs. You have other worries to consider, maybe other people’s prejudices to overcome. But the rewards that come from loving someone with a disability can outweigh all the downsides- you get to see life differently and also celebrate the tiny things others can overlook.
I found the book mesmerising and the characters really well drawn. I got the sense of loss despite the overwhelming love, how tragedies were overcome and how Seaview provided a lovely safe haven for a wonderful group of people. How ordinary lives can be changed forever- but you can find a new path through.
I was really drawn in and the writing just wrapped itself around me. I really want to visit Morecambe now- to see the places described.
With many thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book- I will definitely look out for her next book.
I have twins, one of whom has autism- so the premise of the book really called out to me and themes throughout the book really spoke volumes. The twins in the book were born at 35 weeks like mine and one had the delayed development- so this brought back many memories, some quite painful.
It dealt with how disabilities were treated in the 50’s and earlier- when disabled children could normally expect a life in care- but just what can be achieved to make their life happy and that they feel the centre of a loving family. But also how those same disabilities have a far reaching effect on all those round them. Although you love them unconditionally- the course of your life is changed forever alongside theirs. You have other worries to consider, maybe other people’s prejudices to overcome. But the rewards that come from loving someone with a disability can outweigh all the downsides- you get to see life differently and also celebrate the tiny things others can overlook.
I found the book mesmerising and the characters really well drawn. I got the sense of loss despite the overwhelming love, how tragedies were overcome and how Seaview provided a lovely safe haven for a wonderful group of people. How ordinary lives can be changed forever- but you can find a new path through.
I was really drawn in and the writing just wrapped itself around me. I really want to visit Morecambe now- to see the places described.
With many thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book- I will definitely look out for her next book.
July 23, 2016
'Owl Song at Dawn' by Emma Claire Sweeney
3 stars
This is Emma Claire Sweeney's first published novel.
I read this book, because I was interested in its subject matter. I also know Morecambe, where most of it is based, and was interested to see how the town was portrayed.
The story is told in the first person, and concerns Maeve Maloney, a woman in her seventies. She is still living in the home where she grew up. She is haunted by her childhood and young adult years with her twin sister, Edie, and the impact that this still has on her life.
The book has an interesting structure, going backwards and forwards in time, and includes the use of letters/other documents to add to the narrative. I initially found the time switches difficult to follow, but I got used to them.
I was impressed by the characterisation of the main character, Maeve, who was the narrator. Using her own voice, she is developed as a well rounded character, with both flaws and strengths.
The various aspects of the historical and current attitudes to, and treatment of, children and adults with special needs, were well depicted, and may come as a surprise to many readers.
There are several 'bit players' in this novel (eg. the neighbours and the members of the band) who, for the purposes of this book, needed only to be lightly developed, but appear interesting. Perhaps Emma Claire Sweeney could use some of these characters as the basis for her next novel?
Thank you to Legend Press and to NetGalley for an ARC.
3 stars
This is Emma Claire Sweeney's first published novel.
I read this book, because I was interested in its subject matter. I also know Morecambe, where most of it is based, and was interested to see how the town was portrayed.
The story is told in the first person, and concerns Maeve Maloney, a woman in her seventies. She is still living in the home where she grew up. She is haunted by her childhood and young adult years with her twin sister, Edie, and the impact that this still has on her life.
The book has an interesting structure, going backwards and forwards in time, and includes the use of letters/other documents to add to the narrative. I initially found the time switches difficult to follow, but I got used to them.
I was impressed by the characterisation of the main character, Maeve, who was the narrator. Using her own voice, she is developed as a well rounded character, with both flaws and strengths.
The various aspects of the historical and current attitudes to, and treatment of, children and adults with special needs, were well depicted, and may come as a surprise to many readers.
There are several 'bit players' in this novel (eg. the neighbours and the members of the band) who, for the purposes of this book, needed only to be lightly developed, but appear interesting. Perhaps Emma Claire Sweeney could use some of these characters as the basis for her next novel?
Thank you to Legend Press and to NetGalley for an ARC.
July 6, 2016
This is a remarkable book, original, intelligent, heart-breaking, funny at times, acerbic at others, compassionate and tender; reviewing it tends to lead to a list of adjectives – all of them positive. It’s the story of Maeve Maloney, proprietor of a rather unusual boarding house, Sea View Lodge, where she specialises in offering hospitality to mentally disabled guests. Even two of her staff are disabled. She’s a woman of compassion and empathy whose own experience of disability through her much loved sister makes her determined to give a voice to the voiceless. When an old flame turns up, Maeve is forced to look back and think again about the lost opportunities and wasted chances, the mistakes and regrets of her long life. It’s a haunting read, but nevertheless a life-affirming one. There’s nothing sentimental about the writing, or the plot. Expertly paced, with beautifully delineated characters and a sometime nail-biting plot, the book is a case study of how to write about a difficult subject and make it real and relevant. The author has a keen eye for the telling detail, and her observation of social services and the way they work is spot on. Maeve is an unforgettable character, witty, wise and never daunted by her losses and griefs, and always ready to do battle for those who need her. The reader longs for a well-deserved happy ending for everyone in the book. Legend Press have done it again – this is a book I can’t recommend highly enough.
July 3, 2016
Absolutely loved this!
July 13, 2016
It’s been a long while since a book given me physical goose bumps while reading. This was not as a result of horror, or shocks, but because it was so beautifully written from beginning to end. People who know me well we understand that whilst I’m not unsympathetic, it does take quite a major event to bring a tear to my eye. Almost immediately I knew this would be a treasure chest of emotion where I would discover hoard of lump in the throat gem like moments within.
It contains a mountainous abundance of love, its strength more ferocious than many challenging stormy days ahead in this story of Maeve and Edie. Twins born in the 1930’s, both an equally special addition to their parents’ lives, their personalities shining through, and yet the only difference to them apart was Edie’s Down’s Syndrome and the full time care her condition demanded as a result.
What is clear is that the twin’s parents were fiercely protective of both of their daughters, irrespective of people’s blatant disregard of their feelings concerning the methods of care they lavished on both regardless of their differing personalities. They fought disagreeable medical intervention and suffered disapproval as a result, while tolerating narrow minded public opinion of the time as they gave their children every opportunity that was financially possible.
The disruptions Edie caused as the family participated in their daily routines caused ‘scenes’ at inopportune moments. While accepted by the supportive majority, others couldn’t bring themselves to make eye contact, astonishingly embarrassed by just how big her heart was. Maeve and Edie’s parents’ attitude could easily be mistaken as bravery for the complications they had to endure, but they simply had so much love to share. Oh my, I’m welling up again. This book has left me quite choked (in a good way). *composes oneself*
By the time she tells this story Maeve is a well presented, active octogenarian. Although her knees are creaking a little more than usual she works tirelessly to provide a service to her guests at her family home and B & B catering for clients with special needs. Or should I say some truly special individuals, who experience differing needs to the usual holiday makers (not unlike her sister, who would have remarked Maeve was quite ‘exhausticated’ with so much work and little play).
The B & B is a haven for those who return year after year to experience Maeve’s unique brand of hospitality, not the dated décor. All the guests and staff have the most marvellous character; honest, persistent, loyal, with aspirations most of us take for granted. These provide a painful reminder for this bachelor lady who, despite being surrounded by lively guests, experiences excruciating bouts of loneliness and grief.
It was decades ago that life threw Maeve an unexpected curveball yet she never recovered truly recovered from tragic events of the past that affected the family and her own personal life in different ways and her heart never healed completely to allow her the happiness she deserved. What becomes clear is that she could learn a thing or two from her guests, who aren’t restrained by what is thought to be acceptable, or even possible. To be honest, I think we all could.
Owl Song at Dawn a reflective journey of ‘what ifs’ and the emotional torment we reap from situations often outside out control. No matter how late the hour you can still discover what truly matters in life. It’s the most wonderful, soul-reaching read, which embraced me wholeheartedly, and in turn I wholeheartedly recommend it.
(I received a copy of this book from the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review.)
It contains a mountainous abundance of love, its strength more ferocious than many challenging stormy days ahead in this story of Maeve and Edie. Twins born in the 1930’s, both an equally special addition to their parents’ lives, their personalities shining through, and yet the only difference to them apart was Edie’s Down’s Syndrome and the full time care her condition demanded as a result.
What is clear is that the twin’s parents were fiercely protective of both of their daughters, irrespective of people’s blatant disregard of their feelings concerning the methods of care they lavished on both regardless of their differing personalities. They fought disagreeable medical intervention and suffered disapproval as a result, while tolerating narrow minded public opinion of the time as they gave their children every opportunity that was financially possible.
The disruptions Edie caused as the family participated in their daily routines caused ‘scenes’ at inopportune moments. While accepted by the supportive majority, others couldn’t bring themselves to make eye contact, astonishingly embarrassed by just how big her heart was. Maeve and Edie’s parents’ attitude could easily be mistaken as bravery for the complications they had to endure, but they simply had so much love to share. Oh my, I’m welling up again. This book has left me quite choked (in a good way). *composes oneself*
By the time she tells this story Maeve is a well presented, active octogenarian. Although her knees are creaking a little more than usual she works tirelessly to provide a service to her guests at her family home and B & B catering for clients with special needs. Or should I say some truly special individuals, who experience differing needs to the usual holiday makers (not unlike her sister, who would have remarked Maeve was quite ‘exhausticated’ with so much work and little play).
The B & B is a haven for those who return year after year to experience Maeve’s unique brand of hospitality, not the dated décor. All the guests and staff have the most marvellous character; honest, persistent, loyal, with aspirations most of us take for granted. These provide a painful reminder for this bachelor lady who, despite being surrounded by lively guests, experiences excruciating bouts of loneliness and grief.
It was decades ago that life threw Maeve an unexpected curveball yet she never recovered truly recovered from tragic events of the past that affected the family and her own personal life in different ways and her heart never healed completely to allow her the happiness she deserved. What becomes clear is that she could learn a thing or two from her guests, who aren’t restrained by what is thought to be acceptable, or even possible. To be honest, I think we all could.
Owl Song at Dawn a reflective journey of ‘what ifs’ and the emotional torment we reap from situations often outside out control. No matter how late the hour you can still discover what truly matters in life. It’s the most wonderful, soul-reaching read, which embraced me wholeheartedly, and in turn I wholeheartedly recommend it.
(I received a copy of this book from the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review.)
June 25, 2016
Owl Song at Dawn is a beautifully told debut novel as atmospheric as its title and cover suggest. It’s produced by Independent publisher Legend Press who sent me a pre-publication copy for an honest review. So I’m very pleased that I loved it.
As you get older it’s natural to look back on your life’s pleasures and regrets. Maeve Maloney the 80 year old protagonist of ‘Owl Song at Dawn’ is no exception. The book opens when the arrival of an unexpected visitor to Maeve’s Morecambe guest house reignites memories long buried but not forgotten. The story is about loss, grief and paths not taken and the tender love of a family united by the presence of their severely disabled twin daughter. Maeve remembers her childhood from the nineteen fifty’s as she battles through present day challenges to keep the family guest house open and provide a safe haven for the two young people with learning difficulties she has taken under her wing. The scene is quickly set and the story draws you into the world of a teenage girl coping with the rewards and frustrations of living with a twin in a society that fails to understand disability and difference.
From there the novel compels you to read on to find out how Maeve’s hopes for the future were ruined and if there is still time for her to make amends. It is a beautifully written story with a poignant narrative interrupted occasionally with short paragraphs which read like poems of the phrases and words that Maeve’s twin Edie would have used. The characterisation is very believable and the outcome satisfying as past and present collide together. A lovely read which makes you think. It is out on the 1st of July and is strongly recommended.
As you get older it’s natural to look back on your life’s pleasures and regrets. Maeve Maloney the 80 year old protagonist of ‘Owl Song at Dawn’ is no exception. The book opens when the arrival of an unexpected visitor to Maeve’s Morecambe guest house reignites memories long buried but not forgotten. The story is about loss, grief and paths not taken and the tender love of a family united by the presence of their severely disabled twin daughter. Maeve remembers her childhood from the nineteen fifty’s as she battles through present day challenges to keep the family guest house open and provide a safe haven for the two young people with learning difficulties she has taken under her wing. The scene is quickly set and the story draws you into the world of a teenage girl coping with the rewards and frustrations of living with a twin in a society that fails to understand disability and difference.
From there the novel compels you to read on to find out how Maeve’s hopes for the future were ruined and if there is still time for her to make amends. It is a beautifully written story with a poignant narrative interrupted occasionally with short paragraphs which read like poems of the phrases and words that Maeve’s twin Edie would have used. The characterisation is very believable and the outcome satisfying as past and present collide together. A lovely read which makes you think. It is out on the 1st of July and is strongly recommended.
July 3, 2016
Owl song at Dawn follows Maeve, who in her latter years has turned her family home into a boarding house for disabled guests, holiday makers and performers.
Her relationship with Steph and Len, who are under her care through volunteering at Sea View Lodge, helps juxtapose the actual focus of the novel and who the narrative is directed at, Maeve’s twin sister Edith. Here it shows how the world today is more accepting of difference then when Maeve was younger. The treatment Edie suffered echoes in flashbacks, demonstrating it was a reason for the breakdown of their family and has had lasting effects on Maeve.
But another big motif of the novel is about wasted time and wrong decisions. It demonstrates that poor decisions made when you’re younger and/or more immature should not mean that you punish yourself forever. That with time you have to move on as well. The appearance of the character Vince allows Maeve to accept her past and move on in ways she never thought possible.
The constant switching between past and present allows the reader to fully grasp Maeve’s situation and does so with clarity. It also shows how integral how people with disabilities are to society, their outlook on life is something everyone can gain from. The progress is cherished but Edie’s treatment in the 50s shows how acceptance was not always the case.
A moving story that really will change perspectives, a heartwarming piece of work.
Her relationship with Steph and Len, who are under her care through volunteering at Sea View Lodge, helps juxtapose the actual focus of the novel and who the narrative is directed at, Maeve’s twin sister Edith. Here it shows how the world today is more accepting of difference then when Maeve was younger. The treatment Edie suffered echoes in flashbacks, demonstrating it was a reason for the breakdown of their family and has had lasting effects on Maeve.
But another big motif of the novel is about wasted time and wrong decisions. It demonstrates that poor decisions made when you’re younger and/or more immature should not mean that you punish yourself forever. That with time you have to move on as well. The appearance of the character Vince allows Maeve to accept her past and move on in ways she never thought possible.
The constant switching between past and present allows the reader to fully grasp Maeve’s situation and does so with clarity. It also shows how integral how people with disabilities are to society, their outlook on life is something everyone can gain from. The progress is cherished but Edie’s treatment in the 50s shows how acceptance was not always the case.
A moving story that really will change perspectives, a heartwarming piece of work.
July 31, 2020
I read this with interest because of my experience of having a disabled brother. The narrative was historically placed in the past where attitudes to disablement were very different. Being a lot older than the author, whilst she got some of it right, and her account of having a disabled sister was somewhat reflective of my own experience, some of the historical material did not ring true to me. I was also irritated by the repetition of 'ocean-blue dress' and 'peachy silk blouse'.
July 10, 2016
Inspire by the author’s own experience with disability through her autistic sister, Owl Song At Dawn is a fulfilling read that tugs at the heart-strings and provides an outlet that gives insight into the lives of those suffering from disability whilst highlighting the differences in perception and society from the 1950s to today. Full of emotion, Sweeney brings to the reader and array of emotions surrounding love, death, family, and friendship that bring come together to bring this novel that makes you feel homely and at one with the Maloney family.
I am one of those people that has always been interested in things I don’t fully understand: space, religion, history. Disability is one of them. Having never really known anyone with a disability, I would say that I am at a loss as to how they live their day to day lives but understand that there is a perception about them that, to this day, still seems to fog the brains of society. Emma Claire Sweeney truly highlights the differences, yet similarities, between the 1950s and today’s society on how we behave, communicate, and – in some cases – ostracise those with disabilities. Sweeney gave me a greater understanding of those with disabilities whilst enforcing my own opinions that they are the same as any other human being who just need a little more care and attention. It was heartwarming to see the love, care, and attention received by Edie, Steph, Len, and the other disabled characters at the hands of people like Maeve, Vincent, Zenka, and many others showing the compassion.
The layout of the narrative and the different strands really help to gain a thorough understanding of each other characters. Though Edie is no longer alive in the present day narrative, we are frequently thrown into the past as Maeve is reminded of key moments in her life from scenarios in the present. It is through these flashbacks that we get to know Edie and realise how defining a character she is; she is what makes Maeve who she is today and has shaped Maeve’s life. It is Maeve’s compassion towards Edie and her will to help Edie progress past her disability that causes Maeve to never leave Morecambe and, though in these flashbacks it seems that Maeve almost begrudges her overall situation, it is present day Maeve who realises that she has lived a fulfilled life thanks to Edie and become a better person. Not only do these flashbacks help us to understand these characters who are no longer with us, but it helps us to understand how the character of Maeve has grown and developed since she as a teenager. Maeve uses these moments to clarify the truth that she has been avoiding all her life and develop even further in the present in order to accept who she has become and understand the changes that happened throughout her life and why.
As it has become clear, Sweeney really does present all too realistic characters with flaws, aspirations, and personalities that fit in perfectly with each character. Even Edie, who it becomes clear will never achieve her dreams of being on stage and suffers many setbacks throughout her short life, is a character that I became invested in through Maeve’s relationship. Maeve never leaves Edie behind, including her in everything that she does, sharing her with everyone and proclaiming to everyone how good she is. Maeve teaches her to talk in foreign languages and knows just the right way to treat Edie to make her life comfortable and fulfilling as possible. I’ve said this word many times already, but Sweeney really does present a heartwarming novel with close friendships that make you feel a part of the family.
I am one of those people that has always been interested in things I don’t fully understand: space, religion, history. Disability is one of them. Having never really known anyone with a disability, I would say that I am at a loss as to how they live their day to day lives but understand that there is a perception about them that, to this day, still seems to fog the brains of society. Emma Claire Sweeney truly highlights the differences, yet similarities, between the 1950s and today’s society on how we behave, communicate, and – in some cases – ostracise those with disabilities. Sweeney gave me a greater understanding of those with disabilities whilst enforcing my own opinions that they are the same as any other human being who just need a little more care and attention. It was heartwarming to see the love, care, and attention received by Edie, Steph, Len, and the other disabled characters at the hands of people like Maeve, Vincent, Zenka, and many others showing the compassion.
The layout of the narrative and the different strands really help to gain a thorough understanding of each other characters. Though Edie is no longer alive in the present day narrative, we are frequently thrown into the past as Maeve is reminded of key moments in her life from scenarios in the present. It is through these flashbacks that we get to know Edie and realise how defining a character she is; she is what makes Maeve who she is today and has shaped Maeve’s life. It is Maeve’s compassion towards Edie and her will to help Edie progress past her disability that causes Maeve to never leave Morecambe and, though in these flashbacks it seems that Maeve almost begrudges her overall situation, it is present day Maeve who realises that she has lived a fulfilled life thanks to Edie and become a better person. Not only do these flashbacks help us to understand these characters who are no longer with us, but it helps us to understand how the character of Maeve has grown and developed since she as a teenager. Maeve uses these moments to clarify the truth that she has been avoiding all her life and develop even further in the present in order to accept who she has become and understand the changes that happened throughout her life and why.
As it has become clear, Sweeney really does present all too realistic characters with flaws, aspirations, and personalities that fit in perfectly with each character. Even Edie, who it becomes clear will never achieve her dreams of being on stage and suffers many setbacks throughout her short life, is a character that I became invested in through Maeve’s relationship. Maeve never leaves Edie behind, including her in everything that she does, sharing her with everyone and proclaiming to everyone how good she is. Maeve teaches her to talk in foreign languages and knows just the right way to treat Edie to make her life comfortable and fulfilling as possible. I’ve said this word many times already, but Sweeney really does present a heartwarming novel with close friendships that make you feel a part of the family.
Read
January 15, 2017Haven't finished the first chapter yet but already know I'll be blubbing by the end very soon. Some beautifully turned phrases.
Update
A mild dose of flu yesterday had me unable to do much other than droop on the sofa with blankets, dogs and a blazing fire but no complaints because it gave me the chance to finish this wonderful book in one sitting and I could blame the wet eyes on the illness rather than the moving story of family love, guilt and the kindness of strangers.
There's so much to love about this book - the characters, the story, the relief that children and adults with different learning abilities are for the most part treated better by society now than in the past and whether you're blessed to have a learning disabled family member or not, there's much to provoke thought and discussion, such as Maeve finding the word mongoloid brought up images of beautiful people riding horses through the Steppes and that it described Edie better than honouring "Doctor Down who shut people away in an asylum" (a bit unfair). I'm old enough to remember when the words Mongol and Mongoloid were being phased out in favour of Down(s) Syndrome and it caught me right in the feels when I was least expecting it, having thought exactly, exactly that as a child.
It's very much a Lancashire* novel, without a speck of the "ey oop, there'll be trouble at t'mill, tha'll see" dialogue that a lesser writer might have gone for but is instead full of lyrical prose, especially when Maeve is speaking to Edie or when Edie herself is speaking her wonderful rhymes. I hope that it's adapted in the future for radio (audio book?) and someone like Jane Horrocks can read/star in it. And while many of the characters are differently abled, Maeve Maloney's straight-talking no nonsense, often judgemental character is never "worthy" or do-gooding, she simply surrounds herself with good people regardless of outward appearances and treats everyone to a good tongue lashing when needed, however they're abled.
But the wonderful relationship between the twins, told in such vivid colours by a woman plagued by misplaced guilt throughout her life, is the real star of this novel and one that will stay with me for a long, long time. Hugely recommended to one and all.
[I was lucky to receive a review copy from Legend Press in exchange for an unbiased review - an indie publisher who are fast becoming my "Desert Island Publisher" - they keep bringing out such high quality novels, often by first time authors that I wouldn't have discovered in any other way and who will be writers whose work I will follow for years to come. Bravo.]
Update
A mild dose of flu yesterday had me unable to do much other than droop on the sofa with blankets, dogs and a blazing fire but no complaints because it gave me the chance to finish this wonderful book in one sitting and I could blame the wet eyes on the illness rather than the moving story of family love, guilt and the kindness of strangers.
There's so much to love about this book - the characters, the story, the relief that children and adults with different learning abilities are for the most part treated better by society now than in the past and whether you're blessed to have a learning disabled family member or not, there's much to provoke thought and discussion, such as Maeve finding the word mongoloid brought up images of beautiful people riding horses through the Steppes and that it described Edie better than honouring "Doctor Down who shut people away in an asylum" (a bit unfair). I'm old enough to remember when the words Mongol and Mongoloid were being phased out in favour of Down(s) Syndrome and it caught me right in the feels when I was least expecting it, having thought exactly, exactly that as a child.
It's very much a Lancashire* novel, without a speck of the "ey oop, there'll be trouble at t'mill, tha'll see" dialogue that a lesser writer might have gone for but is instead full of lyrical prose, especially when Maeve is speaking to Edie or when Edie herself is speaking her wonderful rhymes. I hope that it's adapted in the future for radio (audio book?) and someone like Jane Horrocks can read/star in it. And while many of the characters are differently abled, Maeve Maloney's straight-talking no nonsense, often judgemental character is never "worthy" or do-gooding, she simply surrounds herself with good people regardless of outward appearances and treats everyone to a good tongue lashing when needed, however they're abled.
But the wonderful relationship between the twins, told in such vivid colours by a woman plagued by misplaced guilt throughout her life, is the real star of this novel and one that will stay with me for a long, long time. Hugely recommended to one and all.
[I was lucky to receive a review copy from Legend Press in exchange for an unbiased review - an indie publisher who are fast becoming my "Desert Island Publisher" - they keep bringing out such high quality novels, often by first time authors that I wouldn't have discovered in any other way and who will be writers whose work I will follow for years to come. Bravo.]
July 26, 2017
3.5
***NOVEL THOUGHTS***
This story set on the coast of Morecambe in England at the sea side bed & breakfast of Maeve Maloney, now in her early 80s. She is the twin sister of Edith who suffers from "severe abnormal intellect", so called in the early '50s to describe what later was named Down's Syndrome. It is a story of love and devotion of a family who has to adapt to Edith's disability and whose friends, townspeople and guests also accommodate to her childlike ways and big heart. It is a story of the backwards attitude of "dealing" with such a child as shown thru letters and dictates of the social workers, church and doctors of the 1950s encouraging the Maloney's that they should put her into an institution and just "forget that she was born." It is a story that winds its way back and forth from the past till it eventually threads its way full circle to the life that Maeve might have had if choices that she made in the past had been the right ones and if she had been able to decifer the clues right in front of her eyes. It is a story of misguided judgement and forgiveness and second chances. It is a story of deep love, both romantic and sisterly. It is also a story of deep loss and suffering.
Sweeney bases her story on her own family's experiences as her own younger sister is a twin with cerebal palsy and autism. Besides developing a story steeped in mystery, she also brings awareness to the public attitude and misunderstanding of the complexities of Down's Syndrome by showing the sweetness and loving nature of Edith as well as Steph and Len who are her present day charges with mental disabilities. After she becomes the owner of Sea View Lodge when her parents die, she opens her home to only those who would might be turned away at other such lodges. We see how Maeve must deal with the "well meaning" social workers much as her parents had to do in their day with the interference of the church and doctors.
"Owl Song at Dawn" is a book that will keep the reader immersed with a daring and complicated subject matter, well written characters and a gripping mystery that slowly unwinds as the story comes full circle. You keep wanting to shake Maeve as she misses the signals of her childhood friends Vince and Frank. Even little Edith, in her innocence, provides clues to Maeve's oblivion. In a curious feature, Sweeney combines nursery rhymes, song lyrics, prayers, animal sounds and the repetitious words she knows to give Edith a unique voice in short paragraphs of what seems like a poem of Edith's thoughts. I personally enjoyed learning some of the English slang and vernacular. (watch for the owls)
***NOVEL THOUGHTS***
This story set on the coast of Morecambe in England at the sea side bed & breakfast of Maeve Maloney, now in her early 80s. She is the twin sister of Edith who suffers from "severe abnormal intellect", so called in the early '50s to describe what later was named Down's Syndrome. It is a story of love and devotion of a family who has to adapt to Edith's disability and whose friends, townspeople and guests also accommodate to her childlike ways and big heart. It is a story of the backwards attitude of "dealing" with such a child as shown thru letters and dictates of the social workers, church and doctors of the 1950s encouraging the Maloney's that they should put her into an institution and just "forget that she was born." It is a story that winds its way back and forth from the past till it eventually threads its way full circle to the life that Maeve might have had if choices that she made in the past had been the right ones and if she had been able to decifer the clues right in front of her eyes. It is a story of misguided judgement and forgiveness and second chances. It is a story of deep love, both romantic and sisterly. It is also a story of deep loss and suffering.
Sweeney bases her story on her own family's experiences as her own younger sister is a twin with cerebal palsy and autism. Besides developing a story steeped in mystery, she also brings awareness to the public attitude and misunderstanding of the complexities of Down's Syndrome by showing the sweetness and loving nature of Edith as well as Steph and Len who are her present day charges with mental disabilities. After she becomes the owner of Sea View Lodge when her parents die, she opens her home to only those who would might be turned away at other such lodges. We see how Maeve must deal with the "well meaning" social workers much as her parents had to do in their day with the interference of the church and doctors.
"Owl Song at Dawn" is a book that will keep the reader immersed with a daring and complicated subject matter, well written characters and a gripping mystery that slowly unwinds as the story comes full circle. You keep wanting to shake Maeve as she misses the signals of her childhood friends Vince and Frank. Even little Edith, in her innocence, provides clues to Maeve's oblivion. In a curious feature, Sweeney combines nursery rhymes, song lyrics, prayers, animal sounds and the repetitious words she knows to give Edith a unique voice in short paragraphs of what seems like a poem of Edith's thoughts. I personally enjoyed learning some of the English slang and vernacular. (watch for the owls)
Read
July 21, 2016Emma Claire Sweeney’s emotional debut novel Owl Song at Dawn will touch your heart in so many ways. Written as a reflective narrative, 80 year old protagonist, Maeve Maloney is forced to face her past when the arrival of an unexpected visitor turns up at her guesthouse, reigniting memories which Maeve has since buried.
Maeve is the proprietor of Sea View Lodge, a guesthouse which offers hospitality to people with disabilities. The narrative switches between the past and present tense, recounting the story of Maeve’s severely disabled twin sister Edie and her family’s fight with social services to keep Edie in the family home instead of institutionalising her. The most striking aspect of this novel is the way in which the author handles the sensitive subject of disability. She effectively portrays the contrast in attitudes towards disability from 1950s society to the present day through the characters of Edie and Steph and Len, who are under Maeve’s care at Sea View Lodge. This contrast is interesting as it shows that society today is more accepting of disability and difference than it was back then.
What I liked most about the novel was the poignant relationship between Maeve and Edie. Though Edie is no longer with us in the present day narrative, we are repeatedly thrown into flashbacks of particular moments in her life, allowing us to look past her disability and see just how significant a character she really is. The flashbacks incorporated within the narrative are essential in conveying Maeve’s character development; they’re used in a way where she has no choice but to confront her past, particularly the incident surrounding the night of her 21st birthday, which she has blocked from her memory ever since. Maeve’s compassion towards Edie is the most heartfelt aspect of the novel; she includes Edie in everything that she does, they do normal things that sisters do together as she knows just how to approach Edie in order to make her feel as normal and comfortable as possible.
Owl Song at Dawn is remarkable, tender and heart-warming with realistically flawed characters. This is a beautifully written and uplifting novel that teaches compassion and provides life lessons for us all.
Maeve is the proprietor of Sea View Lodge, a guesthouse which offers hospitality to people with disabilities. The narrative switches between the past and present tense, recounting the story of Maeve’s severely disabled twin sister Edie and her family’s fight with social services to keep Edie in the family home instead of institutionalising her. The most striking aspect of this novel is the way in which the author handles the sensitive subject of disability. She effectively portrays the contrast in attitudes towards disability from 1950s society to the present day through the characters of Edie and Steph and Len, who are under Maeve’s care at Sea View Lodge. This contrast is interesting as it shows that society today is more accepting of disability and difference than it was back then.
What I liked most about the novel was the poignant relationship between Maeve and Edie. Though Edie is no longer with us in the present day narrative, we are repeatedly thrown into flashbacks of particular moments in her life, allowing us to look past her disability and see just how significant a character she really is. The flashbacks incorporated within the narrative are essential in conveying Maeve’s character development; they’re used in a way where she has no choice but to confront her past, particularly the incident surrounding the night of her 21st birthday, which she has blocked from her memory ever since. Maeve’s compassion towards Edie is the most heartfelt aspect of the novel; she includes Edie in everything that she does, they do normal things that sisters do together as she knows just how to approach Edie in order to make her feel as normal and comfortable as possible.
Owl Song at Dawn is remarkable, tender and heart-warming with realistically flawed characters. This is a beautifully written and uplifting novel that teaches compassion and provides life lessons for us all.
July 15, 2016
Thank you to Lucy at Legend Press for the advanced reading copy.
Owl Song at Dawn is a heart-rending, beautiful story, set in the present day, narrated by Maeve, as if she is talking to her 'severely subnormal' Edie. Maeve's life has been hard and lonely, and we learn gradually what brought her to be desperately trying to keep a run-down Sea View Lodge as a welcome holiday retreat for people with special needs.
Her tale is interspersed with glimpses of her younger life with her family, as they provide full time care and love for Edie along with the support of Maeve's friends, Vince and Frank. We learn of the battles with the authorities, who just want to institutionalise Edie. We've all heard of the old barbaric institutions; but we never really hear of the strength of the families determined to support their loved ones.
Vince is a gentle, caring character who obviously cares a great deal for both Edie and Maeve, but it is Frank who steals Maeve's heart. But life never happens as we plan it. Maeve has subsequently devoted her life to others, providing care, support and employment to two lovely young people with Down's Syndrome. These two, Len and Steph, are gorgeous, innocent characters, with a wicked sense of humour and a sensibility about them that many 'ordinary' folk would not afford them.
Maeve has dedicated her life to caring for others, to the detriment of her own quality of life. She has no surviving family of her own, and when a face from her past, Vince, turns up bringing sometimes painful memories, she is reluctant to let him back into her life
She's a great, feisty character, and the author has depicted this sometimes cantankerous octogenarian with a great deal of warmth and empathy.
It's a beautiful story, wonderfully written and well worthy of 5 stars.
Review originally published on http://vikbat.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/...
I also had the privilege of hosting an Author Q&A with Emma Claire Sweeney on my blog http://vikbat.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/...
Owl Song at Dawn is a heart-rending, beautiful story, set in the present day, narrated by Maeve, as if she is talking to her 'severely subnormal' Edie. Maeve's life has been hard and lonely, and we learn gradually what brought her to be desperately trying to keep a run-down Sea View Lodge as a welcome holiday retreat for people with special needs.
Her tale is interspersed with glimpses of her younger life with her family, as they provide full time care and love for Edie along with the support of Maeve's friends, Vince and Frank. We learn of the battles with the authorities, who just want to institutionalise Edie. We've all heard of the old barbaric institutions; but we never really hear of the strength of the families determined to support their loved ones.
Vince is a gentle, caring character who obviously cares a great deal for both Edie and Maeve, but it is Frank who steals Maeve's heart. But life never happens as we plan it. Maeve has subsequently devoted her life to others, providing care, support and employment to two lovely young people with Down's Syndrome. These two, Len and Steph, are gorgeous, innocent characters, with a wicked sense of humour and a sensibility about them that many 'ordinary' folk would not afford them.
Maeve has dedicated her life to caring for others, to the detriment of her own quality of life. She has no surviving family of her own, and when a face from her past, Vince, turns up bringing sometimes painful memories, she is reluctant to let him back into her life
She's a great, feisty character, and the author has depicted this sometimes cantankerous octogenarian with a great deal of warmth and empathy.
It's a beautiful story, wonderfully written and well worthy of 5 stars.
Review originally published on http://vikbat.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/...
I also had the privilege of hosting an Author Q&A with Emma Claire Sweeney on my blog http://vikbat.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/...
July 12, 2016
Owl Song At Dawn is a beautiful and moving story.
Maeve runs Sea View Lodge which technically is a guest house. A few of the guests as well as some of the workers have medical issues which Maeve is used to dealing with as were her parents before her.
Maeve and her sister Edie are twins, unfortunately when Edie was born, it was soon realised that she wasn’t as ‘normal’ as Maeve. It broke my heart that doctors would advise the parents to put her into an institute where they could forget about her. I suppose in the days where Edie was born this was more common than we would care to admit. Obviously now a days there is a lot more help for families who have children with disabilities where in those days families were very much left to it themselves getting no help at all.
In a way this story shows of the prejudices that are out there and how people wanted to take a lot of the rights away from these people. I mean to not allow these human beings a chance of love, a chance of having children of their own as well as being able to try and lead as normal a way of life as possible? It makes me shudder that people can try and dictate how people lead their lives.
Maeve is a lovely character, she has made it her mission to run the guest house and look after the people within it as best as she can. She can come across as being a bit stand offish I think but underneath that stern exterior is a wonderful woman with a heart of gold.
Owl Song At Dawn is a wonderfully written story that is thought provoking as well as heart felt. Highly recommended.
My thanks to Lucy at Legend Press for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Maeve runs Sea View Lodge which technically is a guest house. A few of the guests as well as some of the workers have medical issues which Maeve is used to dealing with as were her parents before her.
Maeve and her sister Edie are twins, unfortunately when Edie was born, it was soon realised that she wasn’t as ‘normal’ as Maeve. It broke my heart that doctors would advise the parents to put her into an institute where they could forget about her. I suppose in the days where Edie was born this was more common than we would care to admit. Obviously now a days there is a lot more help for families who have children with disabilities where in those days families were very much left to it themselves getting no help at all.
In a way this story shows of the prejudices that are out there and how people wanted to take a lot of the rights away from these people. I mean to not allow these human beings a chance of love, a chance of having children of their own as well as being able to try and lead as normal a way of life as possible? It makes me shudder that people can try and dictate how people lead their lives.
Maeve is a lovely character, she has made it her mission to run the guest house and look after the people within it as best as she can. She can come across as being a bit stand offish I think but underneath that stern exterior is a wonderful woman with a heart of gold.
Owl Song At Dawn is a wonderfully written story that is thought provoking as well as heart felt. Highly recommended.
My thanks to Lucy at Legend Press for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2016
I'm interested in alternative history. Unfortunately the only history one cannot re-write is one's own. Maeve wants to keep peeking backwards to see where she went wrong, to examine her guilt. She feels she has abandoned her disabled sister out of pure selfishness, leaving her mother to die of exhaustion and her father to descend into an alcoholic wreck. Cleverly the author leaves us in no doubt that Maeve has done more for her family and her sister than most of us would dream of: dressing, washing and putting nappies on to a woman of 21 is not what I would call selfish behaviour. In fact her devotion to the cause was such as to make her lose the exciting possibilities that came her way. Yet her she is at eighty, feisty, plain spoken taking no nonsense from friends or bureaucrats (even helpful ones) running a superannuated guest house for groups of people that most landladies would turn their nose up at. But it is funny! Maeve and her twin sister speak their minds, often in the most inappropriate circumstances. Her Downs Syndrome assistant (and her young man) throws herself into life uninhibitably, causing confusion and shock all round. Don't be put off by the subject matter, this is a life enhancing joy to read and you'll find yourself, like Maeve, laughing through the tears. (And she is right about nuns and patent leather shoes.)
July 9, 2016
Owl Song At Dawn is a quiet, sensitive book that will linger with its readers, unsentimental yet moving. Its 80 year-old protagonist is a flawed but kindly person, easy to like – and with her first person narrative, easy to identify with. The story of her disabled twin sister is slowly revealed over the course of the modern-day tale of her two young ‘adopted grandchildren’ who see Downs Syndrome as no impediment to their marriage.
I recently read The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards, a multi-million bestseller which touches on similar themes – the struggle to provide a quality family life for a disabled child around the middle of last century – and betrayal and misunderstanding. I found Owl Song At Dawn a more satisfying read, perhaps because it left more to the reader’s imagination. A phrase such as, ‘All’s well when Mum is here,’ says so much more than pages of description of the mother’s care.
Ultimately I puzzled as to why Maeve, the protagonist, took almost sixty years to re-evaluate what had happened in her youth – and what was the catalyst for her change of heart. But if we let too much logic into a story it can sometimes defuse its poignancy, so I choose instead to focus on the hopeful tone of the book, a pleasant change from so many stories of elderly people with dementia.
I recently read The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards, a multi-million bestseller which touches on similar themes – the struggle to provide a quality family life for a disabled child around the middle of last century – and betrayal and misunderstanding. I found Owl Song At Dawn a more satisfying read, perhaps because it left more to the reader’s imagination. A phrase such as, ‘All’s well when Mum is here,’ says so much more than pages of description of the mother’s care.
Ultimately I puzzled as to why Maeve, the protagonist, took almost sixty years to re-evaluate what had happened in her youth – and what was the catalyst for her change of heart. But if we let too much logic into a story it can sometimes defuse its poignancy, so I choose instead to focus on the hopeful tone of the book, a pleasant change from so many stories of elderly people with dementia.
July 14, 2016
Owl Song at Dawn is a book to be savoured. This moving novel tells the story of Maeve who, nearing 80, is pulled into her past by the unexpected arrival of Vincent at her rundown boarding house. He is the only person still living who remembers Maeve's twin sister, Edie, who was born with Downs Syndrome and severe learning difficulties, who died many years ago.
Maeve is a wonderfully drawn character: she is grumpy as only an older person can be, but she also shows a deep compassion to those less fortunate. As a child and adolescent, Maeve was responsible for shielding Edie from the perversity of the outside world in postwar Morecambe. But, since her death, Maeve has felt guilty at the part she believes she played through her carelessness on the night of their 21st birthday party.
The story moves between the past, when Maeve, Edie and Vincent were young, and the present set in the dreary post war 1950s. Maeve struggles to confront their shared history but her resolution is superbly played out. Although some of the story is sad it is beautifully written and there is hope at the end. Owl Song at Dawn deserves a wide readership.
Thank you so much to Legend Press and the author, Emma Claire Sweeney, for my review copy.
Maeve is a wonderfully drawn character: she is grumpy as only an older person can be, but she also shows a deep compassion to those less fortunate. As a child and adolescent, Maeve was responsible for shielding Edie from the perversity of the outside world in postwar Morecambe. But, since her death, Maeve has felt guilty at the part she believes she played through her carelessness on the night of their 21st birthday party.
The story moves between the past, when Maeve, Edie and Vincent were young, and the present set in the dreary post war 1950s. Maeve struggles to confront their shared history but her resolution is superbly played out. Although some of the story is sad it is beautifully written and there is hope at the end. Owl Song at Dawn deserves a wide readership.
Thank you so much to Legend Press and the author, Emma Claire Sweeney, for my review copy.
July 4, 2016
Maeve is in her eighties but still running her guest house that mainly caters for the disabled and she is shocked when a face from the past, Vince, books in to stay. He is the only person alive that knew her in her youth and the story of her twin sister.
Through various flashbacks we found that Maeve had a twin sister who was severely disabled and that the family had to fight social services to keep her at home. Maeve was supposed to get married and with her husband help run the guesthouse but she was jilted at the altar and never really got over it as she never knew the real reasons........the only person who can tell her is Vince
An interesting book - there were many secrets from that past that had to come out and it showed how misunderstandings can change the paths of life. It was also very interesting at the different way disabled people were treated in those times - a good story and a bit different from the usual books I read
Through various flashbacks we found that Maeve had a twin sister who was severely disabled and that the family had to fight social services to keep her at home. Maeve was supposed to get married and with her husband help run the guesthouse but she was jilted at the altar and never really got over it as she never knew the real reasons........the only person who can tell her is Vince
An interesting book - there were many secrets from that past that had to come out and it showed how misunderstandings can change the paths of life. It was also very interesting at the different way disabled people were treated in those times - a good story and a bit different from the usual books I read
June 23, 2016
Owl Song at Dawn is the story of Maeve, a woman who, nearing 80 years old, owns and operates a seaside lodging house which caters to the disabled. Going back in time, mostly through conversations with her long-departed severely disabled twin sister, the book tells Maeve's story--the choices she made, tragedies in her life and how she ended up where she did. The real focus of the book is Maeve's twin Edie, her impact on the family and the deep, abiding love they all shared. Good story, a solid 4 stars, I'd recommend this book. Thank you to Netgalley and Legend Press for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2016
This book was an interesting read. Its poignant message about lost chances enforces us to appreciate our lives and strive to experience all that life offers. This book
also deals with special needs children/ adults. They have a voice and are integral to families and society. We have so much to learn from them , especially their ability to love unconditionally those who are kind and loving to them. Life sometimes is unfair but this book shows you can either dwell on past mistakes or take each day as a gift and enjoy.
also deals with special needs children/ adults. They have a voice and are integral to families and society. We have so much to learn from them , especially their ability to love unconditionally those who are kind and loving to them. Life sometimes is unfair but this book shows you can either dwell on past mistakes or take each day as a gift and enjoy.
June 24, 2016
Despite the poignant look at how disabled people were treated in the past and the tragic destiny of both Edie and Maeve, it remains an ultimately uplifting and positive book with life lessons for us all. The fact that the author draws on her own autistic sister for inspiration imbues the whole novel with compassion, tenderness and a level of understanding that make it into a beautiful work that can't fail to move you.
full review on my blog : http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot...
full review on my blog : http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot...
July 16, 2016
In Owl Song at Dawn, Maeve tells her story and that of her twin sister Edie, weaving between present day and the past. Much of the time she is reminiscing to Edie. She tells of her family, her friends and the guests who frequent Sea View Lodge in a beautiful way. There is a lot of love in her narration tinged with guilt. Emma Claire Sweeney’s description of each character brought them to life on the page and I felt transported to Maeve’s world.
March 30, 2024
This was such a welcome change when compared with a lot of modern popular writing. The narration was excellent and brought the characters fully to life.
I almost want this to be a true story as we need people like the Maloneys, especially Maeve to fill the world with love and kindness. I hanker after a visit to Sea View Lodge, or to open my own similar one day. I work with young people with SEND and despite some tough passages, loved their positive representation.
Lovely.
I almost want this to be a true story as we need people like the Maloneys, especially Maeve to fill the world with love and kindness. I hanker after a visit to Sea View Lodge, or to open my own similar one day. I work with young people with SEND and despite some tough passages, loved their positive representation.
Lovely.
July 11, 2016
Owl Song at Dawn is an honest and heartwarming story of family and romantic love and the changing expectations of both women and people with learning disabilities of the last eighty years.
More on my blog, including a post by the author about the setting of this novel, http://annegoodwin.weebly.com/annecdo...
More on my blog, including a post by the author about the setting of this novel, http://annegoodwin.weebly.com/annecdo...
July 3, 2016
A book about the perfection of imperfection, about the purity of love shining in an often muddy world.
It is deeply apparent that the author has, in many ways, lived this story which is categorized as "fiction."
Read the book with an open heart and open to looking at life free of the shackles of assumptions obscuring the grace evident all around us.
It is deeply apparent that the author has, in many ways, lived this story which is categorized as "fiction."
Read the book with an open heart and open to looking at life free of the shackles of assumptions obscuring the grace evident all around us.
May 5, 2016
The Owl Song at Dawn is inspired by her autistic sister. This novel handles disability sensitively and gives a voice to those who have been silenced in the past. Perfect for fans of Karen Joy Fowler, Nathan Filer and Maggie O'Farrell.
July 2, 2016
What a fantastic read! Poigniant, atmospheric and beautifully told. Drawing on the author's first hand experience of autism, this story abounds with compassion and a true understanding of the issues portrayed, making this a very special novel which cannot fail to move its readers. Highly recommend
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