Book description
Seven-year-old Ailsa Dunn's Ma is prettier than all the other mothers,
her Da is the most handsome man in the world. They're made for each
other… But the grown-up world is more complicated than that, and when
alcohol intrudes, violence becomes the norm and unpredictability reigns
- and the ground shifts beneath Ailsa's small feet.
Ailsa and her big sister Morag - both Ailsa's cruellest tormentor and
her staunchest defender - are removed from the care of their adored
parents and enrolled at McGregor's Orphan Homes, a world away from their
Wallace Street tenement. Here, the rules are strict: there are chores,
there are curfews, the ever-present threat of Auntie Vera and bitter
resignation as visits from Ma and Da become fewer and further between.
But there's also fish and chips, a holiday by the sea, a pillowcase full
of toys at Christmas and, life-changing for Ailsa, an inspirational
teacher and the chance discovery of a rare musical talent that will give
her the opportunity to take her future into own hands.
The Sun Hasn't Fallen From the Sky
is a vibrant portrait of two sisters growing up together in 1970s
Glasgow as their family falls apart; a tender childhood memoir both
heartbreaking and uplifting.
ALISON GANGEL started her teaching
career as Head of Music at a comprehensive school in
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and now teaches English at a Catholic
comprehensive school in Gateshead. She has lived in
Newcastle-upon-Tyne for over twenty years with her daughters Lorna and
Jessica. Her work has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3. The Sun Hasn't
Fallen From the Sky is her first book.
