Sixteen-year-old Frieder's plans for the summer are shattered when he fails two subjects. To be able to move up to the next year in the Autumn, he needs to resit his exams. So instead of going on holiday with his family, he now faces the daunting and boring prospect of staying at his grandparents' house, studying with his strict and formal step-grandfather.

A collection of stories about of the trials of growing up in a community where tension, confusion and violence hold sway. Set in Northern Ireland against the background of the troubles, it captures the spirit of adolescence in difficult times. It also includes a tale of an exceptional student who stirs the resentment of her troubled teacher.

The #1 international bestselling phenomenon: a profound and riveting story of love, loss, and memory

The number one international bestselling Spanish phenomenon: a profound and riveting story of love, loss, and memory

it is only a matter of time before she snaps. Edna O'Brien crafts a quietly horrifying scene of eroticism and insecurity, and makes one woman's near-fatal discomfort stand for society's larger trap.

Debut short story collection from an Irish writer

Critically acclaimed debut short story collection from an Irish writer