The Slow Road North: How I Found Peace in an Improbable Country

Former New York Times columnist Schaap’s (Drinking with Men: A Memoir; Becoming a Sommelier) heartfelt memoir blends social history with personal reflection, and the author narrates the audiobook with warmth and grace. After enduring the devastating losses of her husband and mother, Schaap embarked on a journey toward healing that led her to Glenarm, a quiet village in Northern Ireland. She had consistently led a vibrant life as a journalist, but underneath, she was grieving deeply. Caring for her loved ones consumed her life until she found unexpected solace in Glenarm, a place that is frequently associated with Ireland’s history under and after British colonialism but provided a sense of peace and belonging that helped Schaap heal. This memoir intertwines the author’s journey with a broad history of Northern Ireland, including Brexit and the pandemic.