Set against the backdrop of 1970's Northern Ireland, Funny Peculiar is the humorous and moving story of a girl resisting the pain and shame of sexual abuse and staying in love with life. This is not merely "misery lit" but a powerful and intelligent memoir of a very bright individual who despite being surrounded by cruelty and harm, regains the optimism and lust for life necessary to be truly alive.

While the world around her erupts in blood and violence, the young Constance has her own battles to fight. Her father may be the town laughing stock but his temper has the whole family on edge. And Constance 's in the firing line - from public put-downs to secret incest.

A sensitive and observant girl, she not only survives almost unbearable cruelty but emerges strong and determined, with a passion for life, love and laughter. Told with bitter humour as it weaves together dog shows and the Orange Order, Bloody Friday and the Wombles, sexual abuse and the Silver Jubilee, Funny Peculiar vibrates with the secret triumphs of a child fighting back against a father who claims that abuse is for her own good. As her family starts to disintegrate and the Troubles continue into a second decade, Constance tries to make sense of the meaning of loyalty and betrayal within her family and community.

Paperback - 224 pages