Ma, He Sold Me for a Few Cigarettes

Praise

“The destruction of our common humanity through the manipulation of imposed poverty, misogyny, alcoholism and drug abuse, is a major source of our misery, world-wide; and has been for a long time. Reading this startling testament to one child’s valiant attempts to live until the age of sixteen (four years to go!) is a worthy reminder that we can do better as adults if we turn to embrace the children who are suffering, anywhere on earth, who are coming toward us, their numbers increasing daily, for help.” —Alice Walker

“Beautifully written and packed with detail. Miraculously, Martha is attuned to the simple wonders of the world around her: a BBC radio music program, young nuns having a snowball fight. It’s a world she is determined to become a part of just as soon as she is old enough to flee.” —The Cleveland Plain Dealer

“One thing readers will notice is the unexpected theme of courage and hope throughout this dark, heart-breaking tale. This story was one of the most unique, surprisingly inspiring memoirs available.” —Yahoo Voices

“Stands head and shoulders above everything else in the category … a remarkable personal and literary achievement for the author and an unforgettable experience for the reader.” —Irish Independent 

“[Long’s] story is unique in its rawness and its honesty. Entirely self-educated, she narrates her own life in a way which is both riveting and moving.” —Greenock Telegraph

“A tale of strength, bravery and sheer determination of not letting life beat you.” —Irish Post

“An ultimately uplifting story which salutes the strength of the human spirit.” —Irish World

“This is a searing account of childhood survival. No more haunting memoir has been published this year.” —Counterpunch

“Coming-of-age hardships skillfully recounted by way of the colloquial Irish tongue.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Long’s story is a gritty, grueling, and heartbreaking testament to one girl’s unbreakable spirit.” —Publishers Weekly