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Philomena

a Mother, Her Son and a Fifty-year Search
Aug 03, 2015labyrinthine rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
Philomena: A Mother, Her Son, and a Fifty Year Search by Martin Sixsmith "Philomena: A Mother, Her Son, and a Fifty Year Search" is exactly that, the heartbreaking story of the separation of a woman and the son she loved so dearly (as told by Martin Sixsmith). Philomena Lee was one of many young Irish women who found themselves pregnant and alone. Without a father for her child, Philomena's family sent her to the Sean Ross Abbey in Ireland. Here she gave birth to a son, Anthony Lee (later changed to Michael Hess). Anthony grows up in the convent, only allowed to visit with his mother when she has completed the tasks the nuns assign to her. Philomena loves her son but, she knows the fate that awaits him. Soon enough a rich couple from America come and adopt him. The nuns force Philomena to sign the adoption papers, then release her saying she has atoned for her sins. However, Philomena never gives up the search for her son, and neither does he. Sixsmith's recounting of true events in this book was touching, and powerful. In addition the book itself, the wording and order of events, bare the mark of a true writer. Sixsmith acts as an excellent narrator, mixing his journey with that of his subjects. He finds a way to balance the moments of success in Anthony's life with elements of tragedy that define his story. In addition the book does not blame the church. It points out that there are good Catholics (like Philomena and Anthony's adoptive mother) as well as bad Catholics (like the bishop that orchestrated the adoptions). A truly beautifully written book. There is also a movie that I feel is a very good companion to the book. The movie follows Philomena's journey whereas the book focuses on Anthony. In this way they complement each other very well.