Read Ireland Book Reviews
Issue 457
22/23 August 2009
Green, Blue and Grey: The Irish in the American Civil War by Cal McCarthy
Trade Paperback; 17 Euro / 22 USD / 12 UK; 325 pages
Modern Ireland may be dominated by American culture but Irishmen also helped to shape America. They fought in every important action in the American Civil War, a war many Irish are not familiar with. Irish participation is woven into and highlighted in this account of the war, emphasising the role of Irish individuals and units. Irish involvement began when an ethnic Irish unit was called into action during John Brown s abortive attempt to start an anti-slavery uprising in 1859. When the war started the Irish Volunteers were the first unit in South Carolina to volunteer for service. The most famous Irish unit in the Federal army, the Irish Brigade, which included the famous Fighting 69th , was formed in 1861 at the instigation of Thomas Francis Meagher from Waterford, who rose to Brigadier General and commanded the Brigade. The heroics of this brigade at Antietam, and elsewhere, became an important part of Irish American history. Many Irish made the supreme sacrifice in Union blue and Confederate grey, including Patrick Cleburne from Cork. He proved himself a capable commander on the Confederate side and earned the nom de guerre Stonewall of the West , counties are named after him in Alabama and Arkansas while a lake and city bear his name in Texas. At Fredericksburg Irishmen killed Irishmen on soil which may have raised corn for famine relief in Ireland. At Gettysburg, where green and orange prayed and fought together, Colonel Patrick Kelly from Galway commanded the Irish Brigade. This is a story of bravery and courage, savagery and death.
Dublin in Rebellion: A Directory, 1913-1923 by Joseph E.A. O’Connell
Large Format Paperback; 25 Euro / 32 USD / 18 UK; 490 pages, with a 16-page black-and-white photo insert [Add To Basket]
This comprehensive directory lists historic locations in Dublin on a street-by-street basis, describing events during the tumultuous decade from the 1913 Dublin Lockout, through the 1916 Easter Rising and Irish War of Independence, until the end of the Irish Civil War. It is being reissued by The Lilliput Press with an extensively revised and expanded introduction by the author, to better contextualize the events of the period covered. Entries have been supplemented with further research. It is uniquely illustrated from a Dublin City Archive postcard collection.
Thank You, Partner: A History of Bridge in Ireland by Seamus Dowling
Hardback; 30 Euro / 36 USD / 24 UK; 414 pages
The game of bridge, introduced to Ireland as a drawing room pastime at the end of the 19th century, subsequently developed to become an international sport. Bridge clubs appeared during the 1920s, and in 1932 it became a nationally organised competitive game. Politics caused a rift in the 1950s and the Northern Ireland troubles of the 1970s cast their own shadows. Political figures have historically been involved with bridge, including participants in the 1916 Rising, such as Roddy Connolly, son of James Connolly. The first Irish Bridge book and the product of ten years research brings the reader up to March 2009. Official records and print have been trawled to trace the origins of the game, the changes which it underwent and the external influences which inspired the pioneers of the modern Irish game. Initially an activity for middle class professionals with a Protestant majority, following the conflicts of the early 1920s it was embraced by the wider population and became a unifying force. A fascinating read for bridge aficionados and also those interested in social history.
Roise Rua: An Island Memoir by Padraig Ua Cnaimhsi
Paperback; 20 Euro / 28 USD / 17 UK; 286 pages [Add To Basket]
‘I was born on the 13th of March 1879 in Sheskinarone about a mile from Dungloe in the Rosses of Tirconnell. My poor mother, God rest her, never had any book-learning during her life - in fact she couldn't even tell the time from the clock. In spite of that she had a handy way of reckoning my age: she used to tell me I came into the world around St Patrick's day in the same year as Big Fr O'Donnell, their parish priest, died.’ Roise recounts her experiences on the island and details with great vividness the hiring fairs in Strabane and her teenage years on the Lagan, the great farming area in Tyrone, Derry and east Donegal. Her work on the potato farms of Scotland, the hardship and commitment that 'tatie-hoking' entailed are all brought into sharp focus. Journeys to and from Scotland are memorably depicted. Her personality, her delight in song and dance mark many sections of the book. Roise's recollections of both world wars are fascinating, as are her comments on the many changes she has witnessed. Spanning several generations, it is a refreshing record of life on a Donegal island.
Beyond Belief: The Story of the Boy Who Sued the Pope by Colm O’Gorman
Hardback; 15 Euro / 20 USD / 11 UK; 308 pages [Add To Basket]
‘I was living in a world where a priest who spoke the words of God used me for sex, and there was no-one to tell. The world where this horror happened didn’t exist for anyone else.’
As a boy in Ireland where everyone – from among his own neighbours to the powers of church and state – chose to deny that a priest could sexually assault a child, Colm O’Gorman felt only shame, guilt and fear at the regular rape and abuse he suffered. But Colm would go on to make history, successfully suing the Roman Catholic Church, asking questions of the Pope himself and creating a watershed in history as hundreds more victims found the courage to report their abuse. Beyond Belief is a powerful story of a young man’s shame turning to outrage, and demonstrates that – whatever our past hurts – there is hope for the future if we are prepared to stand for truth.
West Cork Walks by Kevin Corcoran
Paperback; 9 Euro / 13 USD / 7 UK; 112 pages [Add To Basket]
Experience the rugged wildness of Ireland's most southerly, and often considered most beautiful region, in the company of an expert naturalist. Walking in West Cork offers an incredible variety of choice - mountainous peaks, rolling heaths, forested valleys, pristine lakes and sandy beaches - the choice is yours. WEST CORK WALKS details 10 different walks spread across West Cork, giving clear instructions with maps for each walk, the approximate length of time they should take, equipment required, notable features along the way, beautiful wildlife illustrations by the author. Casual strollers, family groups, ramblers and serious walkers are all catered for. The Gearagh (near Macroom), Ballyvourney, Gougane Barra, Coolkelure (near Bantry), Castlefreke (near Rosscarbery), Lough Hyne (near Skibbereen), Mizen Head, Priest's Leap (near Glengarriff), Glengarriff and Allihies.
The Dingle Way by Sandra Bardwell
Spiral with Waterproof Pages; 13 Euro / 19 USD / 10 UK; [Add To Basket]
The Dingle Way runs 111 miles (179 km) around the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. It starts and finishes in Tralee, accessible by train or bus from Dublin and from Kerry Airport. The complete walk takes eight days, but it can easily be shortened. The Dingle Way follows country lanes, quiet roads and cliff-top paths, punctuated by long stretches of glorious beach walking. It offers spectacular seascapes and mountain views. The peninsula is rich in wildlife, archaeology and charming Irish pubs. This guidebook was fully revised in spring 2009 for many route alterations and additional Gaelic placenames. It contains all you need to plan and enjoy your holiday on the Dingle Way: The Way in sections, with summaries of distance, terrain and where to find food and drink. Cconcise background on pre-history, heritage and wildlife. Information about climbing Mount Eagle and Mount Brandon. A special feature on the Blasket Islands. Planning information for travel by car, train, bus or plane. Drop-down map of the Dingle Way in four panels (1:115,000). In full colour, with 70 photographs. On waterproof paper throughout.
The Burren and the Aran Islands: A Walking Guide by Tony Kirby
Flexicover; 15 Euro / 20 USD / 11 UK;170 pages, with maps and full colour photos throughout
Large Format Paperback with 8 page full colour photo insert; 12 Euro / 16 USD / 10 UK; 300 pages [Add To Basket]
The Burren and the Aran Islands, with their unique combination of flora, fauna and landscape, are explored by large numbers of walkers annually. This is a guide to some of the best walking routes in the region, with lucid descriptions and additional information to enhance the walkers enjoyment and appreciation of the place. From the rugged interior to spectacular coastal scenery, from challenging upland walks to shorter road and waterside excursions, this selection has something for everyone. Every part of the region is covered. Walks vary from two-hour strolls to the longer Burren Way, a six-hour walk from Lisdoonvarna to Ballyvaughan. The author has put his considerable experience and detailed knowledge of the area to great use in putting together an easy-to-use guide that introduces the best of this region for locals and visitors alike. Each route, prefaced with a quick-reference summary, is illustrated with a clear sketch map; descriptions include detailed access information while points of interest are highlighted geology, flora and fauna, history, archaeology and folklore.
Working the Irish Coast by Mike Smylie
Large Paperback; 20 Euro / 28 USD / 16 UK; 250 pages, with full colour and black-and-white photographs throughout [Add To Basket]
Fishing has always been as important part of Irish culture and identity. However, many claim that the Irish fishing industry has been in decline and that it did not see the recent prosperity enjoyed by other sectors. In Working the Irish Coast Mike Smylie celebrates the industry and outlines its role in the cultural and economic development of the country. In particular he takes a close-up look at the various vessels used and includes a large number of photographs of these ships. The author matches his expertise with the anecdotes and information he gleans from the many people he meets on his travels around the coast.
The Myth of Irish Cinema: Approaching Irish-Themed Films by Michael Patrick Gillespie
Paperback; 25 Euro / 30 USD / 19 UK; 275 pages [Add To Basket]
For the past seventy years the discipline of film studies has widely invoked the term national cinema. Such a concept suggests a unified identity with distinct cultural narratives. As the current debate over the meaning of nation and nationalism has made thoughtful readers question the term, its application to the field of film studies has become the subject of recent interrogation. In "The Myth of an Irish Cinema", Michael Patrick Gillespie presents a groundbreaking challenge to the traditional view of filmmaking, contesting the existence of an Irish national cinema. Given the social, economic, and cultural complexity of contemporary Irish identity, Gillespie argues, filmmakers can no longer present Irishness as a monolithic entity.The book is arranged thematically, with chapters exploring cinematic representation of the middle class, urban life, rural life, religion, and politics. Offering close readings of Irish-themed films, Gillespie identifies a variety of interpretative approaches based on the diverse elements that define national character. Covering a wide range of films, from John Ford's "The Quiet Man" and Kirk Jones' "Waking Ned Devine" to Bob Quinn's controversial "Budawanny" and "The Bishop's Story", "The Myth of an Irish Cinema" signals a paradigm shift in the field of film studies and promises to reinvigorate dialogue on the subject of national cinema.
One Wild Life: A Journey to Discover People Who Changed Our World by Clare Mulvany
Large Paperback; 20 Euro / 27 USD / 16 UK; 256 pages, with full colour photographs throughout [Add To Basket]
Are you looking for inspiration but don t know where to find it? Do you want to have more meaning in your life but don t know where to begin? Have you ever wondered how you can make a bigger difference but don t know where to start? One Wild Life will take you on a journey, helping you to discover people and places, ideas and inspiration for creating your own ... One Wild Life. For eleven months Clare Mulvany travelled the globe meeting people who have stepped off the beaten path to make a greater difference. From a former rocket-scientist-turned-inventor to an economist-turned-philanthropist, she met people from all walks of life using their ideas and innovations to make this world a better place. Starting out in Ireland, Clare travelled through Africa, India, Asia, the Pacific and the United States, with her laptop and camera helping her along the way. Whether in slums or wealthy suburbs, whether in Uganda or the USA, she discovered inspiring stories of social entrepreneurs using their business skills and humanitarian passion to bring hope to millions. One Wild Life is an invaluable tool for the growing numbers determined to challenge unacceptable conditions. The interviews, journal and blog extracts, resource guide and beautiful images, show how to take practical steps to build a better world through career and life choices. So tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? Mary Oliver Including interviews with: Mary Davis, Special Olympics Ireland Caroline Casey, Founder of Kanchi and O2 Ability Awards Tara Cunningham, CEO Release Speech Therapy Matt Flannery, Co-Founder of Kiva.org Kailash Satyarthi, Nobel Prize Nominee and Chairperson of The Global March Against Child Labour
Warts & All: Ten Years of the Good Friday Agreement by John Kennedy
Paperback; 10 Euro / 13 USD / 8 UK; [Add To Basket]
In the ten years since the Good Friday Agreement a lot of politics has been talked and played. It is safe to say that the twists and turns in the long roads of Government since the Good Friday Agreement have sometimes had to be seen to be believed. Cartoonist John Kennedy casts an ironic eye over the vagaries of Irish politics: the result is a riotous assembly of politicians with one foot on thin ice and the other firmly in their mouth. John Kennedy's work has been widely published in the US and Irish press, and is annually featured at the Féile an Phobail festival. He shows that political lampoonery in the tradition of William Hogarth is alive and well and his `quick on the draw' cartoons are just as ready to make us laugh at our politicians' foibles.
Fantastical Feats of Finn MacCoul retold by Norah Montgomerie Hardback; 16 Euro / 20 USD / 11 UK; 234 pages [Add To Basket]
This collection of mystical folk tales about the Celtic hero Finn MacCoul is magical and bloodthirsty compendium full of humour, love and heroism. The legend of Finn exists in several cultures, but most notably in Scotland and Ireland, where he and the Fian, his band of loyal followers, are still important cultural figures. Many place names that grace the Celtic lands have their basis in these tales. Kyle Rhea, for example, between the Isle of Skye and the mainland is so called because of the terrible fate that befell one of the Fian while trying to save his wife - these warriors valued honour above all else. Justice was dispensed decisively to evil-doers and members of the Fian alike. Finn himself was more of a king than the kings he often met, for he alone was the arbiter of all conflicts. His was a life of constant risk combined with a simple belief in the power of good over evil. Finn travelled and fought wherever he was most needed. His dealings with the Lochlanners (Scandinavians) give us a stirring insight into a time where men risked their lives in pursuit of something more than mere wealth. This fabulous and evoking collection of heroic tales conjures a time and place where giants and magic were commonplace and danger was everywhere, where kings ruled over kingdoms, not countries. Companion to the best selling Folk Tales of Scotland. Only collection available of the Fenian cycle of stories. Stunningly illustrated by Paul Rumsey.
Celtic Knots: Exploring with J Romilly Allen – Method and Matrix by Brett Garrett
Trade Paperback; 25 Euro / 32 USD / 22 UK; 146 pages, with full colour illustrations throughout [Add To Basket]
Celtic Knots Exploring applies the matrix theory of J.Romilly Allen to the designs on stone crosses and slabs produced from before the 8th through the 11th centuries. The book gives an approach useful in the study of Celtic knots. The original designs of the crosses are presented in three ways: black and white sketches, continuous or closed lines, and matrix overlays. Celtic Knots Exploring should appeal to readers of early medieval history and Irish missionaries as well as knot designers.
Curious Companions: Ireland to India by Bicycle by Jake Bullough
Paperback; 10 Euro / 15 USD / 8 UK; 178 pages [Add To Basket]
An engaging account of one man’s journey of discovery across diverse cultures and environments. Compassion, humour and a dose of realism combine to create an unforgettable narrative. Thirteen countries and four exhilarating months on the road dealing with hostility in Austria, romance in Romania, Turkey’s bitter winter, overwhelming hospitality in Iran and curiosity in Pakistan. A plethora of unique experiences hurtle the reader form page to page. This outstanding book marks the native of Kerry, Ireland, Jake Bullough’s debut as a writer and artist of formidable talent.
Please note: Prices were correct at time of original posting but are subject to subsequent change without notice.
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