Set in 50th Century, Colm Tóibín's novel, shows two different worlds, Dublin and Usa, comparing mentality, strict moral code, difficult social-economic conditions and scarce opportunities of the first city nominated and the better future she could have living in Usa because of few opportunities and reassuring lifestyle. The protagonist, Eilis will choose if staying in her hometown or leaving Dublin to make her future better.

Tóibín shows throught not much empathy, that permits the reader analyzing the characters, how difficult is homesickness and living between two different existances.

A simple story that focuses a topic that accompanies the history of post-war: migration and emigration.