A major publishing highlight of 2025 for all the JM Agency team was working closely with author Margaret Harvey on her brilliant debut novel, That’s the Why. We were all so proud to have played a part in Margaret’s journey. But first, the book:
Beginning in 1969, That’s the Why follows seven-year-old Madge Whelan after her mother becomes matron of a nursing home, plunging the family into a world of vivid characters and quiet upheavals. As the Whelans adapt to their new life, and later welcome Lizzie, a young housekeeper with a difficult past, what unfolds is a beautiful story that balances nostalgia with social truth.
Although now based in Ottawa, Margaret Harvey’s roots are firmly in Dublin. A lifelong writer, she spent many years working in healthcare before running a bed and breakfast, and remains an active participant in literary life through her passion for James Joyce and her involvement with Ottawa Little Theatre. That’s the Why is her first published novel.
Jeremy was honoured and proud to MC Margaret’s Dublin book launch to a warm and enthusiastic audience at The Eagle of Glasthule, Dún Laoghaire. The event marked a celebratory return for Margaret, whose heart-warming first book captures the humour and hardships of a vanished Ireland with compassion and wit.
The book was launched by Andrew Basquille, local historian, Joyce Tower Museum stalwart and long-time Finnegans Wake group host, who brought both insight and Joycean flair to the proceedings.
Margaret availed of the JM Agency boutique Book Publishing Package, a bespoke service designed for authors who self-publish. The package includes editing, interior and cover design, and production support, ensuring an expert standard at every stage of the publishing journey. Jeremy, along with JM Agency editor Joanne, worked closely with Margaret on all drafts of her book, while the interior layout and cover were beautifully designed by JM Agency designer Parvathi.
See here for where you can pick up a copy of That’s the Why, and see Here for more details on the package that Margaret and her family availed of.
