Down Where The Moon Is Small

Dreams, Exile, and the Will to Survive

Down Where The Moon Is Small by Richard Llewellyn is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the enduring strength of the human spirit amid adversity and change. Set against the evocative landscapes of rural Wales and the vast horizons of America, the story follows Gwil and Sian Morgan and their young family as they leave their beloved Welsh mining village behind in search of a better life across the Atlantic. Driven by hope and necessity, they embark on a journey fraught with uncertainty, heartbreak, and the daunting challenges of starting anew in a foreign land.

The Ties That Bind—Family, Heritage, and Home

Llewellyn masterfully captures the joys and sorrows of uprooted lives, painting vivid portraits of both the harsh realities of the immigrant experience and the warmth of kinship that sustains the Morgans through their darkest moments. In America’s bustling mining towns, the family faces poverty, prejudice, and backbreaking labor, yet their shared dreams and cherished memories of Wales become a source of strength. Sian’s courage and resilience shine as she nurtures her family, striving to maintain their identity and traditions in the face of overwhelming odds. Their story is a moving testament to the sacrifices made in the hope of a brighter future for the next generation.

A Lyrical Saga of Hope and Belonging

Written with Richard Llewellyn’s signature lyricism and compassion, Down Where The Moon Is Small immerses readers in a world of longing and perseverance, where the search for belonging is as important as the search for prosperity. The novel beautifully balances moments of hardship with flashes of humor, love, and grace, celebrating the enduring bonds of family and the rich tapestry of Welsh heritage. It is a moving tribute to the thousands who left everything behind, reminding us that home is not a place, but the people and memories we carry within us.

Richard Llewellyn was a renowned Welsh novelist, celebrated for his evocative stories of working-class life and the resilience of ordinary people striving for dignity and hope in an ever-changing world.