Even on Days When it Rains: A True Story of Hardship and Maternal Love

by Julia O'Donnell

Irish singing star Daniel O’Donnell’s mother, Julia, grew up on a remote island off the northwest coast of Ireland, going barefoot and doing hard labor as child during the poverty-stricken 1920s. The hard work continued through her teenage years as she picked potatoes in the fields and traveled to Scotland to gut fish in the ports. After she married, Julia's beloved husband—Francie—was forced to work away from home for months on end. Physically demanding, the work eventually took its toll and Julia found herself widowed and penniless with five children. In this inspiring story of triumph over adversity, Julia explains how she battled through this dark period by knitting sweaters to support her family. In an amazing twist of fate, this hard-working woman and dedicated mother watched from the wings as her offspring flourished. Her daughter Margaret and son Daniel went on to achieve fame and fortune as chart-topping singers. Poignant, warm, and laced with great humor, this is a gripping story of hardship, sacrifice, and maternal love.

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 7, 2008

Reviews

[Gail murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written but a little too detailed .

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful story, sad, thought provoking, hear rendering but with such depth. I absolutely loved it. Julia came from a very poor family who lived near Ireland. She worked hard picking potatoes in the fields and gutting fish when she went to Scotland. Her husband worked away from home continuously and because of the demanding work he had to do this eventually lead to his demise and left Julia a widow without any means of support but still she had the love and responsibility of looking after five children. She had some dark times but things did get better, the sun started shining for her in unimaginable ways. Highly recommend.

[Roslyn Royle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this auto- biography. It really is a truly lovely story of a life full of faith struggle, happiness, joy and success. It has the added value of celebrity association but it stands alone as an insight into life of an Irish life during a very interesting time and in an extraordinary location. Julia has a wonderful storytelling quality to her writing and musings that really is quite enchanting.

[Ricky Pulko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story

I was memorized by this story and didn't want to put my kindle down even though I never new this family as soon as I completed the book I immediately googled the names and was so happy to read more about it I was sad to find out that Julia had passed away.

[Camilla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sad and real ...