The Grave

By: James Heneghan

Narrated by: Gerard Doyle

Thirteen-year-old Tom Mullen has spent his entire life in foster homes. One night, while visiting a recently discovered mass grave at the local cemetery, he falls through a hole in time and finds himself in 1847 Ireland. Taken in by the first caring family he has ever known, Tom must find a way to help them survive the famine and disease that grips their country.

©2000 James Heneghan (P)2002 Recorded Books, LLC

Good listening

I have always loved this book, ever since I first listened to it on audiobook back when I was 12. So happy to find it again!

This is another one of those books from the early 2000’s that missed the benefit of the boost of YA literature from Harry Potter. Just a little too early, and because of that, the book got slapped with one of those unappealing covers with no press when it was released. It could really do with a reboot because…

You get a charming tale about a good hearted kid who was given the small end of the stick. You get to learn a little about foster care in the 1970’s in Britain, you get to learn about the Irish famine, and you get to fall in love with the characters. This book does not shy away from difficult topics, and I like the brutal honesty that comes with this more-than-just-a-time-traveling book. The main character is flawed, but lovable. You can’t help but be drawn in by his “chatty” nature.

Both 12-year-old me and 30-year old me would recommend giving this a quick read. It will surely leave a lasting memory.

Should be required

Should be required reading for all high school students. Gives a small bit of Irish history and mans inhumanity. Moral of importance of family. Loved it