Oprah Winfrey revealed her latest book club selection, “Small Things Like These” by Claire Keegan, during an appearance Tuesday on “CBS Mornings.”
The story, set in Ireland in December 1985, follows local father and trader Bill Furlong as he uncovers the truth about a Magdalene Laundry, a convent where women and girls were forced to work in harsh conditions .
“What stood out to me? First of all, reading the story, and I had never heard of Magdalene Laundries,” Winfrey said. “This story, which is heartwarming and meaningful, is about a father who tries to do the best for his family, and then has to make a decision… For me, I have to go through a story based on truth, but is actually fiction, that’s what really excited me.”
Keegan explained that she focuses on the details of everyday life, saying, “We so often think about our lives and measure them by the big things that happen…but really, it’s how we let’s live our daily life which makes our character.”
Winfrey echoed a particular line from the book: “Was there any point in being alive without helping each other?” »
“This is how I live my life,” Winfrey said. “But that’s also why it’s such a great Christmas story at this time of year.”
The book also explores real history. The Magdalene Laundries operated in Ireland from 1922 to 1996, and Keegan noted that survivors are still seeking recognition and apology from the Catholic Church.
Winfrey also announced her new podcast “The Oprah Podcast” in partnership with Starbucks. It features conversations about books and social issues. She shared that the first episode includes an interview with a woman who was sent to a Magdalene laundry when she was 12 years old.
“Small Things Like These” was made into a film starring Academy Award winner Cillian Murphy. The book is available now and episodes of “The Oprah Podcast” can be streamed on YouTube and other platforms.
