Under the Hawthorn Tree Review - Marita Conlon-McKenna

Under the Hawthorn Tree by Marita Conlon-McKenna is a deeply emotional and powerful story about survival, family, and hope during one of the darkest times in Irish history—the Great Famine. The novel follows three siblings—Eily, Michael, and Peggy—who are left alone when their family is torn apart by hunger and illness. With no adults to care for them, they must rely on each other as they set out on a difficult journey to find their great-aunts, believing they will be safe there.

From the very beginning, the story is gripping and heartbreaking. The children are forced to grow up far too quickly as they face the harsh realities of life during the famine. Food is scarce, people are suffering everywhere, and danger is always close by. As they travel across the countryside, they experience hunger, fear, and exhaustion, which makes the story feel very real and emotional. You can’t help but feel worried for them and hope that they will make it to safety.

One of the most powerful aspects of the book is how it shows what life was like during the famine in a way that is easy to understand but still very moving. The descriptions of empty homes, struggling families, and the constant search for food really help readers imagine how difficult life was at the time. It also makes you appreciate the things we often take for granted today, like having enough food and a safe home.

The characters are incredibly strong and inspiring. Eily takes on a motherly role, caring for Michael and Peggy even though she is still just a child herself. She shows great bravery and responsibility, making difficult decisions to keep them safe. Michael is determined and protective, always trying to help in any way he can, while Peggy, the youngest, is fragile but also shows quiet courage throughout their journey. Their love for each other and their strong bond as siblings is the heart of the story and makes it even more touching.

Another important theme in the book is hope. Even when things seem hopeless, the children keep going, driven by their belief that they will find safety and be together again as a family. This makes the story not only sad but also inspiring, as it shows the strength of the human spirit in the face of hardship.

Although some parts of the book are very sad and difficult to read, this is what makes it so powerful and meaningful. It doesn’t hide the truth about how tough life was, but it also shows kindness, bravery, and moments of care between people. These moments balance the sadness and make the story feel real and important.

The writing style is simple but very effective, making it easy to follow while still full of emotion. It allows readers, especially younger ones, to understand the history while connecting deeply with the characters. The journey itself keeps you engaged, as you want to know if the children will reach their destination safely.

Overall, Under the Hawthorn Tree is an unforgettable and moving story about survival, love, and resilience. It teaches readers about an important time in history while also showing the power of family and hope. It is perfect for readers who enjoy emotional and meaningful stories with strong characters and real-life struggles.

I would give this book 5 out of 5 stars because it is powerful, emotional, and inspiring, and it stays with you long after you finish reading.