Vivian, an eccentric orphan living in her recently deceased great aunt's Dublin home, embarks on a quest to find a friend named Penelope, believing it will help her understand a perceived wrong. Her peculiar habits, such as eating only blue food and cultivating a unique personal scent, set her apart, but her attempts to connect with others, including her estranged sister, are consistently met with misunderstanding. The narrative explores Vivian's internal logic and her struggle for belonging, hinting at a deeper unease beneath her charmingly odd exterior, all while navigating the streets of Dublin and grappling with the myth of the Changeling.

This novel has been lauded as a modern Irish literary gem, praised for its inventiveness, humor, and ultimately moving narrative. Critics have highlighted its delightful quirkiness and beguiling prose, with The Guardian calling it 'inventive, funny and, ultimately, moving' and The New York Times Book Review describing it as 'wildly funny.' The book is recognized for its unique exploration of belonging and its ability to capture the essence of feeling like an outsider. Its magical realism elements and poignant portrayal of a protagonist seeking connection have resonated with readers and reviewers alike.