Under the Hawthorn Tree (The Children of the Famine)

One of the greatest historical fiction adventures in children's literature.

Marita Conlon-McKenna's Children of the Famine series brings to life as never before the Great Famine of 1840s Ireland and the immigrations that followed. Winner of many awards and accolades, these are all-time classics in historical fiction for children. Join siblings Eily, Michael, and Peggy on their incredible journey as they overcome tragedy, famine, and poverty to make their way in a dangerous new world.

"Beautiful and moving…historically true and fictionally vivid."
Sunday Times

"Not a word, spoken or unspoken, nor an emotion, is wasted. Pace and style keep the pages turning, and you are filled with a sense of wanting more at the end. Highly recommended."
Books Ireland

"Brings to a satisfying conclusion one of the undoubted achievements of contemporary Irish children's literature."
Children's Books in Ireland

"Three novels which, in my opinion, must be counted among the very highest achievements of contemporary children's writing - from Ireland or elsewhere."
Robert Dunbar

Awards for Under the Hawthorn Tree

1991
International Reading Association Award

1991
Reading Association of Ireland Award

1993
(Shortlisted for)
Österreichischer Kinder und Jugendbuchpreis

1994
(Shortlisted for)
Le Prix Litteraire du Roman pour Enfants