Book description
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 labour as as child during the poverty-stricken 1920s.
The hard work continued through her teenage years as she picked
potatoes in the fields and travelled 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 while still in her forties.
In this classic and inspiring story of triumph over adversity, Julia
tells how she battled through this dark period by knitting sweaters
into the early hours of the morning to support her family. Then, 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 humour, The Mother's
Story is a tale of maternal love, hardship and sacrifice, and a
fascinating insight into this remarkable Irish family's life.
'I was six when my father died so my mother has been everything to
me. Wherever I go I tell the world about my wonderful mother. I'm a
singer today because of my mother's encouragement. She has been the
biggest influence in my life.' Daniel O'Donnell
Now in her eighties, Julia O'Donnell continues to live in
Kincasslagh, County Donegal, surrounded by her friends and family.
