Who is Nana in the novel, The Queen of Dirt Island?

Nana is Saoirse's grandmother and Eileen's mother-in-law. Her first name is Mary, but she is primarily referred to as Nana throughout the novel. Nana is Eileen's husband's mother. She and Eileen lose their husbands on the same night in the same accident. In the wake of the men's deaths, Nana and Eileen come to rely upon one another. Although she and Eileen are often arguing and bickering, they love one another dearly. Nana is an essential part of Saoirse's world throughout her childhood and young adulthood.