Oprah Winfrey has chosen Claire Keegan's novella, Small Things Like These, as the first book for her new YouTube series, The Oprah Podcast.

Keegan, an Irish author from County Wicklow, received high praise from Winfrey, who described the novella as 'a beautiful Christmas story.'

Winfrey expressed her excitement about the story's basis in truth, encouraging readers to appreciate the protagonist's moral dilemmas regarding family and community responsibility.

She resonated with a poignant line from the novella about the importance of helping one another, highlighting its relevance during the Christmas season.

The book centers on Bill Furlong, a coalman who witnesses disturbing events at a local convent, with the character portrayed by Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy in a film adaptation.

Historically, Winfrey's endorsement has significantly boosted book sales, a phenomenon known as 'The Oprah Effect.'

For instance, after her 2007 recommendation, Cormac McCarthy's The Road sold over a million copies, and Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye saw an increase of approximately 800,000 copies sold following its selection in 2000.

In reaction to Winfrey's choice, Keegan expressed immense gratitude, stating it was the 'most exquisite compliment' and a tremendous honor to be included in her book club.

The first episode of The Oprah Podcast, launched in partnership with Starbucks, features an interview with a woman who experienced life in a Magdalene laundry as a child, and episodes are available on YouTube and other platforms.