In the quiet town of Boyle, Ireland, in the year 1989, Martin Moone had cultivated an unlikely companionship.

Martin sought out the company of Trevor, the new boy, with a specific aim: to partake in the lavish meals his family enjoyed regularly, a luxury his mother, Debra, seemed too preoccupied with political campaigning to provide. Meanwhile, Ma …

Martin seized the opportunity of the crowded bathroom to steal a few extra moments of sleep, but his respite was short-lived. Sinead, with mischievous intent, adorned him with cosmetics while he slumbered. Deprived of a mirror, Martin unkno…

Uncle Danny appeared just as Martin was having the conversation with his parents about grown-up things. When Martin was upset, he turned to the company of his own made-up companions for comfort.

Fidelma found a place within the church choir, while Martin’s confirmation brought him a sudden, profound realization.

The last week of primary school for Martin had arrived, and a sense of wanting to be remembered settled upon him. Just then, Fidelma delivered a startling revelation.