I started reading Old God’s Time without any idea of what it is about, and at first it seemed to be just meandering inside a retired policeman’s head. But eventually, a story begins to crystalize.
In the 1990’s, Tom Kettle is a retired Irish cop who has spent the last nine months alone in his seaside apartment. He has found the time peaceful, but he’s been retreating into memories of his life with his beloved wife June and his children Winnie and Joseph. He’s not always sure whether has has dreamt of scenes with them or not.
Then two police detectives come to his home to ask him questions about an old case concerning a priest’s abuse of children that was shut down by higher-ups. Oddly, though, they don’t ask him anything but spend the night during a storm and leave.
Next his old chief Fleming stops by to ask him to come in and help them with the case, Slowly, with the discussion of this case, the secrets and sorrows of Tom’s life are revealed. At the same time, Tom gets more involved with his immediate neighbors.
This is an eloquent novel but also a very sad one, with a strong message about the effects of child sexual abuse.
whatmeread 
I was so surprised this wasn’t shortlisted for the Booker. I found it very powerful, and the narration was interesting.
I didn’t think about that, but you’re right. I’m surprised, too.
I’m afraid I’ve reached my limit of books about child abuse, so I think I’ll pass on this. It seems to be a particularly prominent theme among Irish writers for some reason – usually the Catholic church scandals.
I can see that.
I am going to buy this. I have a friend, a barrister who does a lot of work with young people who have been abused in ‘care’ homes … I have read Barry’s A Long, Long Way.
Haven’t read that one yet.
I love Sebastian Barry and must read this one. I agree with Rebecka. A surprise it was not on the short list of the Booker prize.