Positives Reviewers found the book to be a compelling and often touching exploration of a tragic story. Many appreciated its historical and political scope, offering an eye-opening look into Irish adoption practices and the societal context of the 1950s, as well as the United States' political landscape in the 1970s and 80s, including the early years of the AIDS epidemic. Some readers found the broader historical and societal details informative and well-researched, with one noting the inclusion of photographs and original letters to illustrate the era. The book was praised by some for its detailed examination of the lasting effects of adoption and the impact of religious oppression. For a segment of readers, the narrative was engaging enough to be a quick read, despite its somber themes.
Negatives However, the book faces significant criticism, primarily concerning its accuracy and focus. Many reviewers felt the title, especially the movie tie-in version, was misleading, as the majority of the book centers on the life of the son rather than the mother's search. A widespread complaint is the extensive use of fictionalized dialogue and invented scenes, with critics arguing that the author takes egregious liberties by creating conversations and surmising the internal thoughts and emotions of individuals, many of whom were deceased and could not be interviewed. This led many to believe the book should be classified as fiction, despite being presented as non-fiction, with some calling it poorly written, repetitive, and lacking credibility due to the absence of proper sourcing. Additionally, the portrayal of the son's character is often described as one-dimensional, overly focused on his sexuality, and not a recognizable depiction according to those who knew him.
Conclusion The overall verdict on the book is mixed, with many reviewers recommending caution due to the pervasive fictionalization. While some readers found the core story to be profoundly moving and historically significant, others were deeply disappointed by what they perceived as a deceptive and poorly executed narrative. This book may appeal to readers interested in the historical context of institutionalized adoption in Ireland and the social and political climate of the US in the late 20th century, particularly the challenges faced by gay individuals within conservative politics and during the rise of the AIDS epidemic. However, prospective readers should approach it as a work inspired by true events rather than a strictly factual account, especially if their primary interest is the mother's perspective or a verifiable biography of her son.
