Debbie comes from a loving but troubled family background. Debbie's mother, Maeve, struggles with her mental health, Debbie does not know who her father is and Maeve claims she doesn't either. Debbie's uncle, Billy, lives on a caravan in their garden and is a heavy drinker. Despite their individual struggles, the family bond is clearly strong and all 3 rely on each other for survival.
Debbie starts her studies in Dublin but continues living at home. The contrast between her quieter life at home and the fast-paced student life are difficult for Debbie to manage and she struggles to manage her dual life.
Nealon's writing is accessible and she paints an excellent picture of rural Irish life. Debbie's struggles with the discord between her rural background and the expectations of her urbanite student friends were sympathetic to both.
Debbie starts her studies in Dublin but continues living at home. The contrast between her quieter life at home and the fast-paced student life are difficult for Debbie to manage and she struggles to manage her dual life.
Nealon's writing is accessible and she paints an excellent picture of rural Irish life. Debbie's struggles with the discord between her rural background and the expectations of her urbanite student friends were sympathetic to both.