The Luck of Ginger Coffey — Brian Moore

Ireland was too small for Ginger Coffey. No matter how hard he tried to get on, he just ended up as a glorified errand boy. That was why he emigrated to Canada with his wife and daughter - certain that there, his manifold talents would be recognized.
By the time he has spent the passage money home, and a top newspaper job has turned out to be nothing more than reading proofs for a pittance, Ginger is ready to try anything. Even driving a van delivering fresh nappies to Montreal's young mothers - and collecting the dirty ones. After all, it is only temporary... and things can't get worse... can they?