Oprah Winfrey revealed her latest book club pick, Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan, during an appearance on CBS Mornings Tuesday. The novel, set in Ireland in December 1985, tells the story of Bill Furlong, a father and local merchant, as he discovers the dark truth about a Magdalene laundry—a convent where women and girls endured forced labor under brutal conditions.
“What resonated with me? First of all, I read the story and realized I had never heard of the Magdalene Laundries,” Winfrey shared. “This story is heartwarming and meaningful. It’s about a father striving to do his best for his family, facing a pivotal decision. Finding a story that’s rooted in truth but told through fiction was so exciting for me.”
Keegan highlighted her focus on the subtleties of daily life, explaining, “We often measure our lives by the big events, but in reality, how we live day-to-day defines our character.” A particular line from the book stood out to Winfrey: “Was there any point in being alive without helping one another?” She said, “That’s how I live my life. It’s also why this is such a beautiful Christmas story for this time of year.”
The novel delves into real-life history, as the Magdalene Laundries operated in Ireland from 1922 to 1996. Survivors continue to seek acknowledgment and apologies from the Catholic Church, Keegan noted.
Winfrey also announced her new venture, The Oprah Podcast, in collaboration with Starbucks. The podcast will explore books and social issues, with the inaugural episode featuring an interview with a woman sent to a Magdalene laundry at age 12.
Small Things Like These has been adapted into a film starring Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy. The book is available now, and episodes of The Oprah Podcast can be streamed on YouTube and other platforms.
Pick up a copy here.
