Who are we? What blend of gene, heritage, family or culture conjoin to make us who and what we are? How is one predisposed by an unknown past to the life set before him? Irish, orphaned and abandoned, a toddler is literally handed off to strangers only to be judged inferior and passed on to an exploitive spinster seeking support for her old age. Michael, a second novel by Ann O'Farrell, evolves from her first engrossing tale, Norah's Children. This time O'Farrell explores the family theme as it relates to the transcendent emotional ties of need, loyalty and self worth. Michael's duality must overcome his conflicted world of loyalties to country (England/ Ireland) and family (biological/ surrogate) ... then comes love and World War II. ... sensitive ... compelling ... poignant ... A rich, moving exploration of the meaning of family, in all its guises.' Kirkus Discoveries .... I did not want the book to end." Frank West, Irish American News ... ensnaring writing ... I had hair tingling reactions at high points in the story. John O'Brien Ohio Irish American News ... a forlorn tale woven into one of optimism. Sharon Greer. The Celtic Connection. ... what a wonderful book Linda E. Burg. The Little Read Book Wauwatosa. WI