Abby Mallon

Abby Mallon is the story’s protagonist. She works as a question writer for a standardized testing company, and she is very introverted, so she enjoys the generally solitary work. However, one day, she is promoted to a position that involves traveling to schools, giving presentations, and answering questions. Abby is terrified of public speaking, but she becomes determined to change this about herself. Her consequent introspection leads her to realize that she is unhappy in her marriage, so she decides to leave her husband Bob.

During the vacation before beginning her new job, Abby impulsively decides to take a tourist trip to Ireland. She wishes to kiss the famed Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence upon those who kiss it. Abby’s mother accompanies her on the trip. Abby feels somewhat inadequate, as she is generally anxious, while her mother seems...