The book tells the story of Frank McCourt, an Irish-American boy, who is raised in poverty by his mother in Limerick, Ireland. The family is constantly struggling to make ends meet and is often forced to live in substandard housing. Frank’s father is an alcoholic who is often unemployed, which makes it even harder for the family. Despite the difficult circumstances, Frank’s mother does her best to provide for her children and instill in them a love of learning. Frank eventually emigrates to the United States, where he finds success as a writer.