Liz Gillis Livres

Tells the story in pictures of the role played by women in Ireland's revolution

The village of Aberbryncraig is rocked by Dai News, the fussy owner of the newsagents and sweetshop in the High Street and vendor of the legendary Neptune Bars, and especially by his cries of anguish when he is missing some Neptune Bars and suspects they have been stolen. Mrs Mopalot (Mrs Branywn Jenkins) is intrigued and persuades her husband, Idwall (he hates being called Mr Mopalot and no one dares do so), to discuss theories of where the Neptune Bars may be going. This causes many bedroom disasters as they debate in bed, a disaster even including a cocoa shower. Mrs M cleans for everyone, so she is in a good position to find out information and get it deciphered. The villagers stick together as they usually do. There is romance in the air as the mystery is finally solved and celebrated at the famous Aberbryncraig summer party.

The Hales family's narrative serves as a microcosm of Ireland's revolutionary era, highlighting their involvement with the Irish Volunteers and connections to prominent figures like Michael Collins. Seán and Tom, both IRA company commanders, found themselves on opposing sides during the Civil War after the Anglo-Irish Treaty split the nation. The chaos of the ambush that killed Collins and Seán's assassination in Dublin illustrate the personal and political turmoil of the time, providing a compelling perspective on the challenges faced during this critical period in Irish history.

Everyone supports Fanny Williams as little Renny becomes part of the Aberbryncraig story and causes a problem or two on his way, showing considerable ingenuity and originality. Mrs Mopalot sorts it all out again with the help of those who have caused all the difficulties, her husband, cocoa in bed, and above all, most of the population of Aberbryncraig in one way or another. The Summer Party is rather unusual this year.