Though the Bodies Fall Review
“It’s simple. Just listen to these people, let them know that you are here for them. And never, ever judge them. They are in a dark, dark place, and we must try our best to bring them back into the light.”
★★★★★
This book hit me like a tonne of bricks right smack into my heart and I should have known.
Set in on the west coast of Ireland in the beautiful county Kerry, Though the Bodies Fall tells the story of the Burns family who move into a picturesque (and surprisingly cheap) cottage on the end of Kerry Head overlooking Atlantic Ocean. Unbeknownst to them, the cottage comes with a price much higher than a stack of Euros. For these cliffs hold a dark secret, they are the final call of many "visitors" - people who make their way to the cliffs to end their lives.
Micheál, the eldest of the Burns' three children watches as his parents make it their life's work to save these people and guide them back into the light and away from the cliffs but it's a heavy burden for all of the family. With the passing of his parents, Micheál finds himself continuing this work but it takes its toll.
As we move between past and present, we uncover the lasting impact and devastating consequences the cottage and the visitors have had on each of the Burns siblings. So, when Micheál's sisters tell him they want to sell the cottage and the land, Micheál must make a decision between his life and the visitors'.
I knew this book would be a heavy one to read and I expected it to sucker punch me right in the feels but I didn't expect the overwhelming kindness shown to the visitors by both Micheál and his parents and ultimately the author. There is no judgement, no blame, just patience and understanding. It runs throughout the book and is perfectly captured in this quote:
"It’s simple. Just listen to these people, let them know that you are here for them. And never, ever judge them. They are in a dark, dark place, and we must try our best to bring them back into the light."
The cliffs along the west coast of Ireland are some of the most beautiful in the world but almost all have been suicide spots. Reading Though the Bodies Fall gave a unique insight into the impact left on those who live in these parts of the country and the lasting effects it can have that can echo through generations.
It’s a profoundly beautiful book even in its sadness. Deeply moving, so thoughtful and incredibly impactful, highly recommend to all.
If you have been effected by anything in this review or the book please find some resources below:
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/help-for-suicidal-thoughts/
If you are struggling please call the Samaritans anytime on 116 123
