The Old Jest

Jennifer Prudence Johnston (1930–2025) was an acclaimed Irish novelist and playwright, born in Dublin to playwright Denis Johnston and actress Shelah Richards, known for her works exploring the decline of the Anglo-Irish ascendancy, family dynamics, and Ireland's political tensions during the 20th century. Her most notable works include How Many Miles to Babylon? (1974), Shadows on Our Skin (1977, Booker-shortlisted), and The Old Jest (1979, Whitbread Award winner, filmed as The Dawning). Read more →