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Psychology

Long Island

by Colm Tóibín · 2025 · 294 pages

4.36· 435 ratings

Psychologybook summaryHistorical FictionTóibín
Key Insights · 8 min

Long Island

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Unexpected Visitor Brings Shocking News

Eilis Lacey , an Irish immigrant living in Long Island with her Italian-American husband Tony and their two children, is confronted by an unexpected visitor. The man, an Irishman , claims that his wife is pregnant with Tony's child and threatens to leave the baby on Eilis's doorstep once it's born. This revelation shatters Eilis's world, forcing her to confront the possibility of betrayal and the implications it holds for her family. In the wake of the shocking news, Eilis is left to ponder her next steps. The prospect of raising another woman's child is daunting, and she struggles with feelin

Lesson 1: Unexpected Visitor Brings Shocking News

This principle from Long Island is backed by Colm Tóibín's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 2: Eilis Faces a Life-Altering Decision

This principle from Long Island is backed by Colm Tóibín's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 3: Family Tensions and Hidden Secrets

This principle from Long Island is backed by Colm Tóibín's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

How to Apply Long Island's Lessons

The real value of Long Island lies in its applicability. After reading, the most important step is identifying which of Colm Tóibín's principles speak most directly to your current situation.

Consider keeping a journal while reading — noting where the ideas challenge your current approach and where they confirm what you already suspected. The friction of your own resistance often points to the most important insights.

Key Quote

"Unexpected Visitor Brings Shocking News" — Colm Tóibín, Long Island

About the Author

Colm Tóibín is the author of Long Island. The book reflects years of research, observation, and synthesis of evidence from multiple disciplines.

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