The Shortest Day

By: Colm Tóibín

Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds

In Ireland, a man of reason is drawn to a true mystery older than the Pyramids and Stonehenge in this enthralling story about ethereal secrets by New York Times best-selling author Colm Tóibín.

During the winter solstice, on the shortest day and longest night of the year, the ancient burial chamber at Newgrange is empowered. Its mystifying source is a haunting tale told by locals.

Professor O’Kelly believes an archaeologist’s job is to make known only what can be proved. He is undeterred by ghost stories, idle speculation, and caution. Much to the chagrin of the living souls in County Meath. As well as those entombed in the sacred darkness of Newgrange itself. They’re determined to protect the secret of the light, guarded for more than 5,000 years. And they know O’Kelly is coming for it.

©2020 Colm Tóibín (P)2020 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Mystical realism

Science and shamanism, darkness and slivers of light swirl in this story on the winter solstice in a place beyond and squarely time.

other than knowledge

great things about the book. I was intrigued with the story and how it works.

Beautifully written story and Great Narration

Beautiful story that was so well written. And the narration is perfect for it. A thought provoking short piece.

A Lesson

Let this be a lesson on how a short story should be written and performed.

Some things should remain a Mystery!

I loved this story of the ancient voices of those buried at Newgrange, and the archaeologist who has spent a lifetime studying it. While I was glad that the ancients were able to share this great mystery of the shortest day without losing its beneficent, life-giving power, I finished the story worried about what the world would do to this most ancient and sacred place when it learned of the mystery of the shortest day.