The Great Depression strikes Ireland even harder than it does the United States. The family first goes to Malachy's family home in Toome in County Antrim, where his parents tell them there is no work. He tries Dublin, hoping for a pension from his fighting days, but that does not materialize. They settle in Angela's original hometown, Limerick. Conditions for poor families are miserable. Malachy Sr finds it difficult to find work because of his Northern Ireland accent and mannerisms, and the boys are mocked for their American accents.