Books like The secret scripture by Sebastian Barry
Roseanne McNulty, approaching her centennial, faces uncertainty as the Roscommon Regional Mental Hospital she has known for most of her adult life prepares for closure. Over the weeks before the shutdown, her conversations with psychiatrist Dr Grene deepen, altering both of their lives.
The narrative unfolds through their respective journals, weaving a shockingly intimate portrait that becomes an alternative, secret history of Ireland’s changing character. Roseanne’s story illustrates a life marred by mistreatment and ignorance, yet persistent with love, passion, and hope.
Through this journalistic lens, the novel explores the psychological and social conditions of mental health care in Ireland, offering insight into personal suffering and resilience within a broader historical context.
First publish date: 2008
Genre: Historical Fiction/20th Century Historical Fiction
Authors: Sebastian Barry
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