The Sun Hasn't Fallen From the Sky - Hardcover

'Touching and funny, Alison Gangel's memoir is an exceptionally honest and brave piece of writing. Her detailed observation and keen ear for dialogue bring the child's perspective vividly to life' (Anne Donovan)

'Riveting! Kept me reading until 2 a.m. over four nights. A vivid 'in your face' memoir. The depiction of staff and residents in the children's home is worthy of Dickens. An excellent debut.' (Robert Douglas)

Seven-year-old Ailsa Dunn's Ma is prettier than all the other mothers, her Da is the most handsome man in the world. They're made for each other... But the grown-up world is more complicated than that, and when alcohol intrudes, violence becomes the norm and unpredictability reigns - and the ground shifts beneath Ailsa's small feet.

Ailsa and her big sister Morag - both Ailsa's cruellest tormentor and her staunchest defender - are removed from the care of their adored parents and enrolled at McGregor's Orphan Homes, a world away from their Wallace Street tenement. Here, the rules are strict: there are chores, there are curfews, the ever-present threat of Auntie Vera and bitter resignation as visits from Ma and Da become fewer and further between. But there's also fish and chips, a holiday by the sea, a pillowcase full of toys at Christmas and, life-changing for Ailsa, an inspirational teacher and the chance discovery of a rare musical talent that will give her the opportunity to take her future into own hands.

The Sun Hasn't Fallen From the Sky is a vibrant portrait of two sisters growing up together in 1970s Glasgow as their family falls apart; a tender childhood memoir both heartbreaking and uplifting.