reconnect. Sadie Jackson and Kevin McCoy, once childhood friends, unexpectedly meet again on the bustling streets of Belfast. Despite the years and the political tensions that have kept them apart, they find themselves drawn to each other. Their conversation is filled with nostalgia and a hint of the forbidden, as they come from different sides of the religious divide in Northern Ireland. They decide to catch up over coffee, rekindling a friendship that had been dormant for years. As they talk, the reality of their divided world looms large, but their connection is undeniable. They part with a sense of longing and the unspoken understanding that their friendship is fraught with danger.
Forbidden Friendship
Sadie
and Kevin's
bond deepens. Despite the societal pressures and the disapproval of their families, Sadie and Kevin continue to meet in secret. Their friendship blossoms into something deeper, but they are acutely aware of the risks involved. The streets of Belfast are tense, with violence and unrest a constant backdrop to their meetings. They find solace in each other's company, sharing dreams and fears, but the reality of their situation is never far away. Their relationship becomes a symbol of defiance against the barriers that seek to keep them apart.
Tensions Rise
Conflict and danger escalate. As Sadie and Kevin's relationship grows, so does the tension in their respective communities. Rumors spread, and both face increasing pressure from family and friends to end their association. Kevin is beaten by those who see him as a traitor, and Sadie is ostracized by her peers. Despite the danger, they are determined to see each other, finding ways to meet in secret. The city around them is a powder keg, and they are caught in the middle, struggling to maintain their bond in a world that seems determined to tear them apart.
Dangerous Streets
Violence and betrayal. The violence in Belfast escalates, and Kevin finds himself targeted by those who once called him a friend. A brutal attack leaves him injured, and Sadie is left to grapple with the fear of losing him. The streets are filled with danger, and their meetings become increasingly perilous. Kevin's family is also under threat, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations mounts. Despite the odds, Sadie and Kevin cling to each other, their love a beacon of hope in a city overshadowed by conflict.
Secrets and Lies
Deception and heartbreak. Sadie and Kevin's relationship is tested as secrets and lies threaten to unravel everything they have built. Kevin is accused of a crime he didn't commit, and Sadie is forced to confront the reality of their situation. The weight of their forbidden love becomes too much to bear, and they are faced with an impossible choice. As the truth comes to light, they must decide whether to fight for their love or let it go for the sake of their safety and the safety of those they love.
Love and Conflict
A tragic loss and a decision. The death of a mutual friend, Mr. Blake, in a bombing shakes Sadie and Kevin to their core. The senseless violence and loss force them to reevaluate their lives and their relationship. Kevin decides he can no longer stay in Belfast, a city that has become synonymous with pain and loss. Sadie is torn between her love for Kevin and her ties to her family and home. As they grapple with their grief, they must decide whether to stay and fight or leave and start anew.
A Tragic Loss
Mr. Blake's
death impacts all. The bombing that kills Mr. Blake, a beloved teacher and friend, is a turning point for Sadie and Kevin. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers they face and the fragility of life in Belfast. The loss is deeply felt, and it forces them to confront the reality of their situation. They realize that staying in Belfast means living in constant fear and danger. The tragedy propels them to make a decision about their future, one that will change their lives forever.
A New Beginning
Sadie
and Kevin
choose hope. In the wake of Mr. Blake's death, Sadie and Kevin decide to leave Belfast and the violence behind. They choose to start anew, away from the conflict that has defined their lives. With hope in their hearts and a determination to build a future together, they board a ship bound for England. Their journey is a leap of faith, a chance to create a life free from the constraints of their past. As they sail away, they leave behind a city in turmoil, but carry with them the promise of a new beginning.
Characters
Sadie Jackson
Defiant and hopeful
Sadie is a Protestant girl living in Belfast, caught between her love for Kevin and the expectations of her community. She is strong-willed and determined, often clashing with her family over her choices. Her relationship with Kevin is a source of both joy and conflict, as she navigates the dangerous waters of a divided city. Sadie's journey is one of self-discovery and courage, as she learns to follow her heart despite the risks.
Kevin McCoy
Resilient and conflicted
Kevin is a Catholic boy who finds himself at odds with his community due to his relationship with Sadie. He is brave and loyal, but the violence and betrayal he faces take a toll on him. Kevin's struggle is one of identity and belonging, as he grapples with the expectations placed upon him and his desire for a different life. His decision to leave Belfast is a testament to his resilience and hope for a better future.
Mr. Blake
Kind and supportive
Mr. Blake is a retired teacher who becomes a friend and confidant to Sadie and Kevin. He provides them with a safe space to meet and encourages their relationship, despite the risks. His tragic death in a bombing is a pivotal moment in the story, highlighting the senseless violence of the conflict and the impact it has on those caught in the crossfire.
Brede McCoy
Loyal and understanding
Brede is Kevin's sister, who supports him throughout his struggles. She is a voice of reason and compassion, often acting as a mediator between Kevin and their family. Brede's loyalty to her brother is unwavering, and she plays a crucial role in helping him navigate the challenges he faces.
Mrs. Jackson
Traditional and concerned
Sadie's mother is a product of her environment, deeply rooted in the traditions and beliefs of her community. She is concerned for Sadie's safety and future, often clashing with her over her choices. Despite her traditional views, she loves her daughter and wants what is best for her, even if she doesn't always understand her decisions.
Mr. Jackson
Proud and conflicted
Sadie's father is a proud member of the Protestant community, struggling to reconcile his beliefs with his daughter's choices. He is torn between his love for Sadie and his loyalty to his community, often finding himself at odds with her. His journey is one of understanding and acceptance, as he learns to see beyond the divisions that have defined his life.
Brian Rafferty
Antagonistic and troubled
Brian is a former friend of Kevin's who becomes an antagonist in the story. He is caught up in the violence and conflict of Belfast, often acting out of anger and resentment. His actions have a significant impact on Kevin and Sadie's relationship, serving as a reminder of the dangers they face.
Kate Kelly
Manipulative and regretful
Kate is a girl from Kevin's community who harbors feelings for him. Her actions, driven by jealousy and pressure from others, contribute to the challenges Kevin faces. Despite her initial antagonism, she eventually expresses regret for her role in the events that unfold.
Moira Henderson
Supportive and understanding
Moira is a neighbor of Mr. Blake's who becomes a friend to Sadie. She provides support and understanding during difficult times, offering a glimpse of hope and normalcy in a world filled with conflict. Her relationship with her Protestant husband serves as a contrast to the divisions faced by Sadie and Kevin.
Plot Devices
Forbidden Love
Love across divides
The central plot device is the forbidden love between Sadie and Kevin, which serves as a catalyst for the events of the story. Their relationship challenges the societal norms and expectations of their communities, highlighting the deep-seated divisions and prejudices that exist. This device is used to explore themes of love, identity, and the struggle for acceptance in a divided world.
Violence and Conflict
Backdrop of unrest
The violence and conflict in Belfast serve as a constant backdrop to the story, influencing the characters' actions and decisions. The threat of violence is ever-present, shaping the narrative and adding tension to Sadie and Kevin's relationship. This device underscores the impact of political and religious divisions on individuals and communities.
Tragic Loss
Catalyst for change
The death of Mr. Blake is a pivotal moment in the story, serving as a catalyst for change in Sadie and Kevin's lives. His loss highlights the senselessness of the violence and forces the characters to confront the reality of their situation. This device is used to propel the narrative forward, leading to the characters' decision to leave Belfast and start anew.
Hope and New Beginnings
Promise of a better future
The story concludes with the promise of hope and new beginnings, as Sadie and Kevin choose to leave Belfast and the conflict behind. This device is used to convey a message of resilience and the possibility of a better future, despite the challenges and obstacles faced. It serves as a reminder that love and hope can transcend even the deepest divisions.
Analysis
A tale of love and resilience
"Across the Barricades" is a poignant exploration of love and resilience in the face of adversity. Set against the backdrop of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, the story delves into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the struggle for acceptance in a divided world. Through the lens of Sadie and Kevin'sforbidden love, the narrative highlights the impact of political and religious divisions on individuals and communities. The characters' journey is one of self-discovery and courage, as they navigate the challenges of their environment and ultimately choose hope and new beginnings. The story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of love and the possibility of a better future, even in the darkest of times.
Divided Belfast, Young Love: The novel centers on Sadie Jackson, a Protestant, and Kevin McCoy, a Catholic, who rekindle a childhood friendship amidst the violent backdrop of 1970s Belfast.
Forbidden Love Theme: Their relationship faces opposition from their families and communities due to the deep-seated sectarian divisions.
Seeking Peace and Escape: The story explores their struggle to maintain their bond and find a future together, ultimately leading them to consider leaving Belfast to escape the conflict.
Why should I read Across the Barricades?
Insightful Social Commentary: The book offers a nuanced portrayal of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, exploring the impact of political and religious conflict on ordinary people.
Compelling Character-Driven Narrative: Readers will be invested in Sadie and Kevin's relationship and their personal struggles against societal pressures.
Themes of Hope and Resilience: Despite the grim setting, the novel emphasizes the power of love, friendship, and the possibility of finding hope amidst despair.
What is the background of Across the Barricades?
The Troubles in Northern Ireland: The novel is set against the backdrop of the Troubles, a period of intense political and sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland that began in the late 1960s and lasted until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
Religious and Political Divisions: The conflict was primarily between the Protestant/Unionist community, who wanted Northern Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom, and the Catholic/Nationalist community, who wanted Northern Ireland to unite with the Republic of Ireland.
Social and Economic Factors: The Troubles were also fueled by social and economic inequalities, with Catholics often facing discrimination in employment, housing, and education.
What are the most memorable quotes in Across the Barricades?
"You never let them get you down, do you?": Kevin admires Sadie's resilience and defiance against societal pressures, highlighting her strong character.
"There's an awful lot of things nobody should do these days.": Kevin acknowledges the restrictions and impossibilities imposed by the Troubles, reflecting the pervasive sense of constraint.
"There's enough blood, Sadie, without any more getting shed.": Brede's plea to Sadie underscores the tragic consequences of sectarian conflict and the desire for peace.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Joan Lingard use?
Realistic Dialogue and Setting: Lingard employs authentic dialogue and vivid descriptions of Belfast to create a realistic and immersive reading experience.
Third-Person Limited Perspective: The narrative primarily follows Sadie and Kevin's perspectives, allowing readers to empathize with their experiences and understand their motivations.
Symbolism and Foreshadowing: Lingard uses recurring motifs, such as the barricades and the murals, to symbolize the divisions in society and foreshadow future events.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
King Billy Mural's Defacement: Kevin's past act of defacing the King Billy mural foreshadows his continued defiance of Protestant traditions and societal expectations.
Mrs. McConkey's Shop: The shop's destruction symbolizes the loss of innocence and community cohesion due to the escalating violence.
Uncle Albert's Car: The unreliability of Uncle Albert's car mirrors the precariousness of life and the constant threat of disruption in their society.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
Early Mentions of Violence: Casual mentions of bombings and shootings in early chapters foreshadow the tragic events that will later impact Sadie and Kevin's lives directly.
Brede's Hospitalization: The reference to Brede's past injury during a sectarian clash foreshadows the potential for violence and the dangers of their relationship.
King Billy Mural: The mural is a recurring symbol of division, and its presence in Sadie's street foreshadows the challenges and opposition she will face.
What are some unexpected character connections?
Mr. Blake and Sadie's Shared History: The revelation that Mr. Blake was Sadie's former teacher adds depth to their relationship and highlights his genuine concern for her well-being.
Moira Henderson's Mixed Marriage: Moira's marriage to a Protestant provides a contrasting example to Sadie and Kevin's relationship, suggesting the possibility of harmony despite religious differences.
Kate and Brian's Alliance: The growing connection between Kate and Brian, two characters initially linked to Kevin, creates a sense of unease and foreshadows potential betrayal.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
Brede McCoy: Kevin's Confidante: Brede serves as a voice of reason and compassion, offering Kevin support and understanding while also cautioning him about the dangers of his relationship with Sadie.
Mr. Blake: The Benevolent Mentor: Mr. Blake provides Sadie and Kevin with a safe haven and offers them guidance and encouragement, representing a beacon of hope and tolerance.
Tommy Jackson: The Conflicted Brother: Tommy's internal conflict between loyalty to his family and his past friendship with Kevin highlights the complexities of navigating sectarian divisions.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
Sadie's Rebellious Spirit: Beyond her feelings for Kevin, Sadie is driven by a desire to challenge societal norms and assert her independence, even if it means facing opposition.
Kevin's Search for Identity: Kevin's involvement in republican activities and his relationship with Sadie stem from a deeper search for identity and belonging in a divided society.
Mr. Jackson's Fear of Change: Mr. Jackson's resistance to Sadie's relationship is rooted in a fear of change and a desire to preserve the traditions and values of his community.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
Sadie's Internal Conflict: Sadie struggles with the tension between her love for Kevin and the disapproval of her family and community, leading to feelings of guilt and isolation.
Kevin's Guilt and Responsibility: Kevin feels responsible for the violence and conflict that surround him, leading to a sense of guilt and a desire to escape the cycle of hatred.
Mr. Blake's Quiet Despair: Beneath his cheerful exterior, Mr. Blake harbors a sense of loneliness and despair stemming from the loss of his wife and the senseless violence in his community.
What are the major emotional turning points?
The Beating of Kevin: The brutal attack on Kevin forces Sadie to confront the real dangers of their relationship and question whether it is worth the risk.
Kevin's Loss of Employment: Kevin's unjust dismissal from his job highlights the pervasive discrimination and prejudice in their society, fueling his desire to escape.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
Sadie and Kevin's Growing Intimacy: Their relationship deepens as they face increasing opposition, strengthening their bond and solidifying their commitment to one another.
Tommy and Sadie's Shifting Allegiance: Tommy's initial support for Sadie's friendship with Kevin gradually erodes as societal pressures mount, leading to tension and conflict between the siblings.
Mr. and Mrs. Jackson's Conflicted Parenting: Mr. and Mrs. Jackson's differing approaches to parenting Sadie reflect the broader societal divisions and the challenges of raising children in a conflict zone.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
The Identity of Mr. Blake's Killer: The novel does not explicitly reveal who was responsible for Mr. Blake's death, leaving the reader to speculate about the motives and perpetrators.
The Future of Sadie and Kevin's Relationship: While the novel ends with Sadie and Kevin embarking on a new journey together, the long-term prospects of their relationship remain uncertain.
The Possibility of Reconciliation in Belfast: The novel offers a glimmer of hope for a better future, but it also acknowledges the deep-seated divisions and the challenges of achieving lasting peace in Belfast.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Across the Barricades?
Kevin's Beating of Brian Rafferty: Some readers may question whether Kevin's violent response to Brian's betrayal was justified, given the novel's overall message of peace and reconciliation.
Sadie's Initial Attraction to Kevin: Some readers may find it difficult to reconcile Sadie's initial attraction to Kevin with the deep-seated prejudices and stereotypes that exist in her community.
The Ending's Optimism: Some readers may view the ending as overly optimistic, given the grim realities of the Troubles and the challenges that Sadie and Kevin will likely face in their new life.
Across the Barricades Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
Escape from Sectarianism: Sadie and Kevin's decision to leave Belfast symbolizes a rejection of the sectarian violence and hatred that have defined their lives.
Hope for a Shared Future: Their journey together represents a leap of faith and a commitment to building a future based on love, understanding, and mutual respect.
Ambiguity of Long-Term Success: While the ending offers a sense of hope, it also acknowledges the challenges that Sadie and Kevin will likely face in their new life, leaving the reader to speculate about their long-term prospects.
Review Summary
3.68 out of 5
Average of 1k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.
Across the Barricades is a beloved young adult novel set during The Troubles in Northern Ireland. Readers appreciate its portrayal of forbidden love between Catholic Kevin and Protestant Sadie amidst sectarian violence. Many found it engaging, authentic, and impactful, praising the characters and historical context. Some criticized the writing style as simplistic or flat. Overall, reviewers felt it effectively introduced the complex issues of the time to young readers, though opinions on its quality varied. The book remains memorable for many who read it in school.
Your rating:
4.22
38 ratings
About the Author
Joan Lingard was a Scottish author born in Edinburgh who grew up in Belfast. She wrote for both adults and children, with her Kevin and Sadie series being her most famous work, selling over one million copies. Lingard received several awards for her writing, including the West German "Buxtehuder Bulle" for Across the Barricades. Her novels often explored themes of conflict and cultural differences, drawing from her experiences in Northern Ireland. Lingard was awarded an MBE in 1998 for her contributions to children's literature. She lived in Edinburgh with her Canadian husband and had three daughters and five grandchildren.
Download PDF
To save this Across the Barricades summary for later, download the free PDF. You can print it out, or read offline at your convenience.
Download PDF
File size: 0.98 MB Pages: 10
Download EPUB
To read this Across the Barricades summary on your e-reader device or app, download the free EPUB. The .epub digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.
