The Silver Stag of Bunratty (18 page)

After the Battle of Kinsale, there is very little left in Ireland for the Irish chieftains and their families. Here we encounter Hugh O’Neill, and read of the exciting chase for his young son, Con, whom he wishes to take with him to the Continent. But can Con be found in time?

Eily, Michael and Peggy are left on their own during the Great Famine. They must search for their Great Aunts whom they have heard of only in their mother’s stories. The children undertake a long journey full of danger and challenge.

Peggy emigrates at the age of thirteen to look for a new life in America. We follow her sad departure, the treacherous boat journey, and her arrival in the New World. We read of her work as a maid in a big house, and her plans to go to the wild west.

Eily has stayed at home, married, and has her own little family. But they are in constant danger of being thrown off the patch of land that they must rent. How can they ever acquire a farm of their own? Is there any hope of a good future for Eily’s children?

Liam and Nora become friends at the Feis Ceoil, but their fathers are on opposite sides during the Dublin lockout. One is a striking worker, the other a wealthy employer. Can their friendship survive this divide?

Young Jimmy Conway observes the events of the Rising on his own doorstep where he lives in the nearby tenements. His father is away fighting at the Great War, and his uncle is with the rebels. But where does Jimmy stand?

John Joe and Roger are pupils at Padraic Pearse’s famous school, St Enda’s. They hear about the Rising, but are too young to take part. However, they find their way into the city centre and become caught up in the dramatic events of the rebellion.

Amelia is from a wealthy Quaker family. But when her mother is sent to prison for protest activities, Amelia must grow up fast and learn to care for the family. She also has to deal with her father’s bankruptcy. Poor Amelia, the party girl! Will this make or break her?

Amelia, now sixteen, falls in love with Frederick. He is also a Quaker, and they are pacifists. But when Frederick volunteers to go to war, what should Amelia think? Then, there’s the soldier that she and the servant girl hide in the garden. War is dangerous – at home and abroad.

There are hints of war all over Ireland. Unwittingly, children are involved, sometimes tragically. Sometimes, too, the war simply enters into their games, and fantasy and reality become merged. A fascinating, linked set of stories brings this to vivid life.

Dublin 1920 is a dangerous place, full of spies, informants. Sarah Conway cannot figure out just who is telling the truth and who is not. Michael Collins seems to be in charge, but who exactly is on his side?

Set in county Sligo, Katie lives on a farm. Her father, home from the First World War, is suffering from shellshock. Then Katie hears of secrets in the neighbourhood – secrets to do with war and weapons. What should she do?