Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

Big Hero of A Small Country by M.J. Neary is the enlightening story of an Irish family at the turn of the twentieth century. The family members struggle amongst themselves in an effort to live together, despite the fanatical drive of the head of the house and their political differences. As a young boy, Brendan Malone dreamed of leading a rebellion against the English and freeing his country from their influence. He was a Fenian leader and he lived and breathed his intended revolt against the English. His family was at his mercy as he strove to make it happen.

Dylan, the eldest son, was the recipient and victim of the majority of his father's aggression. Dylan protected Hugh, his frail younger brother, from their father's vicious attacks. His reward for his bravery was an addled brain and verbal tribute for his efforts. After each assault, Brendan praised Dylan for his strength and fortitude, saying that he was a good soldier. Mairin, their mother, does not agree with her husband's single-minded and zealous associations, she has other political loyalties. For her political views and lack of encouragement for his plans, Brendan doesn't allow her to raise the boys. Unable to have any more children and having lost her sons to Brendan, Mairin provides an income by working in her family's tobacco shop. When Dylan and Hugh reach manhood, Brendan is delighted. Now he has sons he can be proud of, sons who can die for Ireland. But are they willing?

Big Hero of A Small Country by M.J. Neary is a gripping story about a man who zealously schemes to overthrow the English. M.J. Neary gives the reader the bleak insight of an Irish activist living in Ireland in the early nineteen hundreds. Life was not easy for anyone at that time, and the difficult life seemed to take a heavy toll on Brendan's psyche. He became fanatical about removing what he perceived to be the cause of his problems. Some of his friends and family agreed with him, and others just wanted to adjust and make the best of what they had. This is a magnificent fictional rendition of their story. I really enjoyed reading this book. It is well-written and very interesting. I was captivated by this view into Ireland's history and recommend it to those who love good historical fiction. It is an eye-opening and heartrending look into the past and a testament to the strength of those who lived through it.