Nicholas Monsarrat 
The Story Of Esther Costello 

In a small Irish village, young Esther Costello, victim of a tragic accident that has left her deaf, dumb and blind, is kept barely alive by hardhearted parents. Discovered by a well-meaning American tourist, who is appalled by Esther»s shocking condition, she is whisked away to America for treatment. But all the advances of American medicine are unable to bring about a cure and with unceasing devotion, her patron decides to devote her life to Esther»s care. But a nationwide campaign to raise public awareness eventually results in donations being diverted to the woman»s personal account, and in a harrowing twist to the tale, Esther»s faculties are restored, with shocking consequences.