Room by Emma Donoghue

Book Summary:

"Room" is a novel by Irish-Canadian author Emma Donoghue, first published in 2010. It tells the story of a young woman named Ma, who has been held captive in a small, windowless room for seven years. During her imprisonment, she gives birth to a son, Jack, who grows up in this confined space. The novel is told from Jack's perspective, a curious and bright five-year-old boy who has only ever known life inside the room.

The book explores their confined existence, the bond between mother and son, and the intense creativity Ma uses to create a semblance of normal life for Jack. When Jack turns five, Ma decides it's time to escape. The plot then shifts to their harrowing escape and the challenges they face as they adjust to the outside world, which is completely foreign to Jack. The story deals with themes of survival, trauma, resilience, and the healing process, while also showing the depth of love and the lengths to which a mother will go for her child.

About the Author 

Emma Donoghue is an Irish-Canadian author, playwright, and screenwriter, best known for her novels that often explore themes of human resilience and the complexities of human relationships. She was born on October 24, 1969, in Dublin, Ireland, and moved to Canada in 1998. Donoghue writes in both contemporary and historical fiction genres, often focusing on the lives of women and marginalized characters.

Her most famous work is "Room" (2010), which was a major critical and commercial success, and it was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. The novel was adapted into an Oscar-nominated film in 2015, with Brie Larson portraying Ma and Jacob Tremblay playing Jack.

Donoghue has written several other novels, including "The Wonder" (2016) and "Akin" (2019), as well as short stories and plays. Her writing is known for its emotional depth, intricate character development, and exploration of difficult and often controversial topics. Donoghue has also been a prominent voice in promoting LGBTQ+ literature and diversity in writing.

The Lotterys More or Less
The Lotterys More or Less is bestselling author Emma Donoghue’s warm, funny and compelling novel about a thoroughly modern family, illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono.
Sumac Lottery is the fifth of seven kids who share their big house with four parents, one grandfather and five pets. At nine, she's the keeper of her family's traditions – from Pow Wow to Holi, Carnival to Hogmanay, Sumac's on guard to make sure that no Lottery celebration is forgotten.
But this winter all Sumac’s plans go awry when a Brazilian visitor overstays his welcome. A terrible ice storm grounds all flights, so one of her dads and her favourite brother can’t make it home from India. And then the power starts going out across the city . . .
The second book in the children's series The Lotterys, following on from The Lotterys Plus One .