Publisher Expresses Confidence Despite Controversy

The authenticity of a memoir about a childhood of sexual abuse and survival at an infamous Magdalen laundry has been challenged in the English and Irish media. Greystone Books, the North American publisher of the book, Kathy's Story, issues a statement.

Vancouver, Canada (PRWEB) September 23, 2006 -- Greystone Books is the North American publisher of Kathy's Story: The True Story of a Childhood Hell inside Ireland's Magdalen Laundries, by Kathy O'Beirne (Greystone, ISBN 1-55365-168-5, $24.95 CDN/ $16.95 USD, trade paperback). This memoir was originally published by Mainstream Publishing in the United Kingdom and has been released this year as Don't Ever Tell. As a result of a family dispute, controversial remarks are currently being published in the English and Irish media questioning the book's authenticity. Greystone Publisher Rob Sanders states, “We have confidence in the work done by Mainstream to ensure the appropriateness of the book for publication.”

The Magdalen laundries were thrust into public consciousness with Peter Mullan's 2002 film, The Magdalene Sisters. Girls considered promiscuous or “at risk” were incarcerated in these notorious workhouses, which operated in Ireland throughout the twentieth century. Kathy O'Beirne was one of these girls.

As Kathy O'Beirne recounts her horrific story in unflinching detail, the strength of her character shines through. It's this strength that has enabled her to survive, led her to champion a campaign to help other victims of institutional abuse, and driven her continuing struggle for justice.

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