Author Jan Carson has published a novel titled Few and Far Between that explores flooding or draining Lough Neagh to address blue-green algae. The story draws from a 1958 proposal by Northern Ireland's Finance Minister Terence O'Neill to drain the lake and create a new county called County Neagh for employment.

O'Neill advanced the plan after becoming prime minister in 1963. Past efforts had lowered the lake level and exposed small islands. Carson researched maps and topography and found full drainage impossible due to water flow.

She spoke with people whose grandparents recalled the exposed islands. The novel follows anthropologist RJ Connolly and his family moving to a group of islands called the Arc in the 1960s. The Arc serves as a refuge for those displaced during the Troubles.

The plot jumps to 2016 during a blue-green algae outbreak. RJ's adult children Robert John and Marion, plus their transgender neighbour Sandra, face relocation from the islands to the mainland. Carson grew up in Ballymena near Lough Neagh.

A friend sent her a clipping about the drain scheme, prompting her research. The book will air on BBC Radio 4's Book at Bedtime from 13 April, narrated by Tara Lynne O'Neill.