Old God’s Time by Sebastian Barry is a novel that delves into the themes of memory, trauma, and the passage of time.
It centres around the life of Tom Kettle, a retired police officer living alone in a small town. The story unfolds as Tom reflects on his past, particularly his experiences with love, loss, and the complexities of his career. As he revisits these memories, he grapples with unresolved issues and the haunting presence of old secrets.
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Book Blurb
Tom Kettle, a retired policeman, and widower, is settling into the quiet of his new home in Dalkey, overlooking the sea.
His solitude is interrupted when two former colleagues turn up at his door to ask about a traumatic, decades-old case. A case that Tom never quite came to terms with. And his peace is further disturbed when his new neighbour, a mysterious young mother, asks for his help.
A beautiful, haunting novel, in which nothing is quite as it seems, Old God’s Time is an unforgettable exploration of family, loss and love.
Awards/Accolades
Old God’s Time was longlisted for the Booker Prize and was winner of the Costa Book of the Year. It was also named a Best Book of 2023 by The New Yorker, The Washington Post, NPR, and Kirkus Reviews.
About the author
Sebastian Barry is a celebrated Irish author and playwright known for his beautiful prose and deep dives into Irish history and identity. He is a five-time Booker Prize nominee and 2018-2021 Laureate for Irish Fiction. Sebastian Barry has won numerous awards, including multiple Costa Book Awards.
Sebastian Barry’s writing is known for its lyrical style and ability to blend historical events with personal stories, creating a moving reading experience. He has also written plays and poetry collections, showcasing his versatility as a writer.
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