The Road to Bethany

The Road to Bethany is a poignant and powerful coming-of-age story seen through the eyes of Margaret Kerr and her Mother Kitty, who seek refuge from the London Blitz at Dairy Hill farm(amusingly named Bethany) not far from Mullingar, Ireland. Bethany is home to John Costello, (a granduncle of Margaret) and his sisters Martha and Maureen.

A farm with no electricity, running water or luxuries such as telephone, young Margaret must learn to navigate her way through life with the help of the gentle community and their profound Christian faith. Though they are limited in formal education, they are highly educated in other ways- full of lore, heritage, stories and religious beliefs that shape their daily lives and how they love, grow and find joy amidst tragedy.

They lived a simple life, off the fruits of their labours, moving with  the seasons, growing and harvesting and caring for their animals. It sounds like an idyllic world, but deep down there was great poverty, hardship, illness and a high mortality rate among infants in large families.  TB was rampant and out of control.

The Road to Bethany is a heart warming story of childhood wonder, unity and an inspiring testament to the power of friendship and family, and how they can shape our lives in incredible ways. It poignantly captures the essence of a bygone era, painting a vibrant and moving picture of an uncomplicated time that still resonates with readers today.