the setup…
It’s the summer of 1981 and a little girl is taken by her father to stay on a farm in rural Wexford (Ireland) with the Kinsellas, her maternal relatives, for “fostering.” The child’s mother is near term with another child, one among many others. Here she finds a stark contrast to her own family and home, not just economically but also in attention and behaviors.
the heart of the story…
We never learn the real name of the child but she comes to be called Petal by John Kinsella who slowly develops an endearing relationship with her. She’s aptly nicknamed as she “blossoms” from a quiet, almost invisible little person to one who begins to thrive and engage. Edna Kinsella shows her kindness and care but it’s John who becomes her teacher. Petal isn’t the only one who’s thriving as the Kinsellas have a heartache of their own to heal.
the narration…
It was helpful to have an Irish narrator, one who seemed to perfectly capture the spirit and nature of the child who has the sole point of view. I could “hear” her changing.
the bottom line…
The simplicity of the story is its strength as we experience the child’s reaction to warmth, affection and attention. Sustenance is a factor but it’s her burgeoning relationship with John that has a lasting impact, a man far different from her own slacker father. The ending still haunts me, one I had to rewind and listen to several times. It’s a beautiful, poignant story that will inspire and sadden you at the same time as her return home is destined.
Book Info
- Release Date: February 10, 2010
- Narrator: Aoife McMahon
- Audio Length: 1 hour, 26 minutes
- Publisher: HighBridge Audio
Listen to a Sample!
I think this story would have my emotions going all over the place and one of the few that might cause a good ugly cry. It sounds so moving. Excellent review!
Thank you, Tessa💜 Yes, the ending will slay you.
I love your review, Jo. I also listened to the ending more than once. Did I miss something? How can this happen? It was definitely a heartbreaking story.
Thank you, Carla💜 I actually had to resort to finding a literary analysis of the story for confirmation of what I thought it meant. It was extremely helpful.
This sounds so moving and emotional. Fantastic review!
Thank you, Marialyce💜 I have Jan to thank for this one. It has the punch of a full length novel.
This sounds like an emotional short story. I’m glad that you enjoyed it. Wonderful review.
Thank you, Jodie💜 I indeed experienced a full range of emotions.
I really enjoy this narrator.
She’s new to me but I hope to see her again on other books.
It’s a beautiful and haunting story, but I was left unsatisfied by the obscure and potentially bleak ending. I enjoyed Small Things Like These by the same author much more!
That ending troubled me, too, Carol, so I went looking for a literary analysis for more clarity. It was extremely helpful.
I’ll have to look for it! Read Small Things…it will help I promise!
Here’s the link:
https://vinhanley.com/2017/12/19/study-notes-on-foster-by-claire-keegan/
Thank you sooo much Jonetta! 🙌
You’re welcome!
I was one of the few, who didn’t love Small Things Like These, but your excellent review has made me want to give the author another try with Foster.
The ending is…complicated, but worth it!