Don't Wake Me at Doyles

The memoir vividly captures the life of Maura Murphy, who navigated a challenging upbringing in 1920s rural Ireland. Describing herself as "chronically ugly and cross as a briar," she faced numerous adversities, including a difficult marriage to a hard-drinking man. In search of a better future for her five children, Maura made the significant move to Birmingham, England, in the 1950s. Her story highlights the struggles and resilience of an almost forgotten generation, intertwined with the rich tapestry of Irish heritage and the immigrant experience.