Are You Somebody? The Accidental Memoir of a Dublin Woman

"You don't want the book to end; it glows with compassion and you want more, more because you know this is a fine wine of a life, richer as it ages."Frank McCourt, author ofAngela's AshesOne of nine children born into a penniless North Dublin family, Nuala O'Faolain was saved from a harrowing childhood by her love of books and reading. Though she ultimately became one of Ireland's best-known columnists, her professional success did little to ease her loneliness and longing for a deep connection to the world.Are You Somebody?distills her experiences into a wisdom that can only come from an obstinate refusal to shrink from life.This commemorative edition of her landmark memoir celebrates O'Faolain's remarkable life and work with a new foreword from Frank McCourt as well as additional archival materials. Strikingly vivid and starkly emotional,Are You Somebody?is, like O'Faolain herself, a singular example of courage, honesty, and bold living.

"Are You Somebody is an extraordinary, powerful memoir. It is beautifully written, with an honesty that is both sensitive and stark."—Roddy Doyle

"A remarkable memoir, poignant, truthful, and imparting that quiet wisdom which suffering brings."—Edna O'Brien