Books matching: irish history
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Gripping, immersive, and deeply humane - Say Nothing is a must-read for true crime fans and history buffs, but go in expecting a sweeping exploration of a society torn apart, not just a murder mystery.
"Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland" by Patrick Radden Keefe delves into the complexities of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, focusing on the abduction and murder of Jean McConville, a mother of ten, by the IRA. Through personal histories and oral accounts, the book weaves a narrative of violence, betrayal, and trauma, shedding light on the impact of the conflict on both victims and perpetrators. Keefe's writing style is described as engaging, immersive, and well-researched, providing a comprehensive overview of the Troubles and the key figures involved, such as Gerry Adams, Dolours Price, and Brendan Hughes.
Jean McConville was thirty-eight when she disappeared, and she had spent nearly half her life either pregnant or recovering from childbirth. She brought fourteen children to term and lost four of them...2018•467 pages- #2
Save:An emotional, cinematic doorstop of a novel that brilliantly covers Ireland’s fight for freedom - imperfect, yes, but utterly unforgettable if you want to feel history in your bones.
Leon Uris's 'Trinity' is an epic historical novel set against the backdrop of Ireland's struggle for independence from British rule. The story follows compelling characters like Conor Larkin through decades of Irish history, exploring themes of love, strength, political uprisings, and societal divisions. Uris weaves a rich tapestry of historical events and personal struggles, immersing readers in the complex landscape of Ireland's past.
I recall with utter clarity the first great shock of my life. A scream came from the cottage next door. I rushed into the room, as familiar as my own home. The Larkin kids, Conor, Liam and Brigid, all... - #3
Save:A grand, absorbing historical saga best enjoyed by those who love richly detailed stories about Ireland’s past; it’s a satisfying, educational journey - just be prepared for a long ride packed with drama and history.
'The Rebels of Ireland' in the series 'The Dublin Saga' by Edward Rutherfurd is a historical fiction novel that delves into the intricate history of Ireland, spanning from 1597 to the early 1900s. Through the lives of several fictional and fictionalized families, the story unravels the complex dynamics between Irish, English, Catholic, Protestant, and Presbyterian communities. Readers follow the families through generations as they navigate through religious and governmental power struggles, major historical events like the Easter Rising in 1916, and the journey towards Irish independence from England. Rutherfurd brings Irish history to life by intertwining tales of families whose destinies ebb and flow with each passing generation.
Doctor Simeon Pincher was a tall, thin, balding man, still in his twenties, with a sallow complexion and stern black eyes that belonged in a pulpit. He was a learned man, a graduate and fellow of Emma... A beautifully written, honest and absorbing look at modern Ireland - both personal and political. If you want to understand the Irish psyche and the country's recent past, this is a must-read.
'We Don't Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Modern Ireland' by Fintan O'Toole provides a bracingly honest portrayal of 50 dynamic and turbulent years of Irish history, showing a country caught between maintaining a false image and the reality of Irish society. The writing style is described as luxurious, with both descriptive and lyrical prose, while delving deep into the historical events and transformations that Ireland has experienced since the late 1950s.
The book explores the transformation of Ireland, the dominance of the Catholic Church, the cultural shifts, and the clash of opposing cultures amidst tremendous cultural and economic changes. Fintan O'Toole's personal reflections from his own life within the context of modern Irish history give the book a richer meaning, seamlessly weaving together historical narrative and personal experiences to present a comprehensive view of Ireland's journey into the Twenty First Century.
My parents’ wedding photographs always remind me of a frontier town in an old Western. To prise open the mock mother-of-pearl covers of the wedding album is to enter a world of strange contrasts. Ther...2021•638 pages- #5
Save:A grand, detail-rich journey through Ireland's history - perfect for historical fiction fans eager to learn, but may feel more like a history seminar than a gripping novel for some.
'The Princes of Ireland' in the series 'The Dublin Saga' by Edward Rutherfurd is a historical fiction novel that spans centuries of Irish history, from the time of ancient Celtic druids to the reign of Henry VIII. The book follows the lives of multiple families through the generations, intertwining their stories with major historical events in Ireland, such as the arrival of Christianity, Viking invasions, and political struggles. Rutherfurd's writing style combines fictional storytelling with well-researched historical details, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of early Ireland and the city of Dublin.
Over into Ulster, where they could find a ship across to Alba? No, Conall decided: that would be the first thing the king would think of; within days he'd have spies on the lookout in every harbour. I...2004•836 pages - #6
Save:A fun, thought-provoking, and highly readable introduction to Ireland’s unexpected role in European history. Take the big claims with a pinch of salt and treat this as a springboard for further exploration rather than the final word.
'How the Irish Saved Civilization' by Thomas Cahill delves into the historical account of how Irish monks preserved literature and learning during the Dark Ages. The narrative style of the author captivates readers, detailing the journey of Irish monasteries becoming the beacon of literacy in Europe. covers the transition from the fall of the Roman Empire to the rise of Medieval Europe, focusing on the pivotal role played by Irish monks in preserving classical texts and spreading Christianity across the continent.
On the last, cold day of December in the dying year we count as 406, the river Rhine froze solid, providing the natural bridge that hundreds of thousands of hungry men, women, and children had been wa...1995•257 pages A sweeping, dramatic, and engaging read about one of history’s greatest Irish-American adventurers - equal parts history lesson and thrilling escapade. Highly recommended for fans of narrative nonfiction and unsung heroes.
'The Immortal Irishman: The Irish Revolutionary Who Became an American Hero' by Timothy Egan is a compelling tale of Irish history in the 19th century, intricately intertwined with American history, particularly the American Civil War. It follows the life of Thomas F. Meagher, a colorful figure who designed the Irish tricolor flag, was sentenced to death for treason, escaped to the United States, and became a General in the Union Army. delves into Meagher's revolutionary activities, his exile to Tasmania, and his eventual escape to the United States, where he played a significant role in shaping Irish and American history. The author's writing style is described as engaging, informative, and visually descriptive, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the historical events and places depicted in the book.
March 2016•385 pages- #8
Save:A lush, gripping journey through Irish history - perfect for lovers of epic tales and anyone curious about the roots of Ireland’s legendary past.
"Lion of Ireland" by Morgan Llywelyn is a historical fiction novel that follows the life of Brian Boru, a legendary leader of Ireland who united the clans in the late 900s. The author, Morgan Llywelyn, weaves a captivating tale blending historical facts with fictional elements, portraying Brian Boru's journey to end the control of Vikings over Ireland. The narrative is rich in detail, describing the landscape, people, beliefs, and the struggles faced by the Irish kingdoms against Norse and Danish invaders.
The story delves into Brian Boru's personal life, relationships with women, and his vision of a unified Ireland. Through vivid storytelling, Llywelyn brings to life the early Irish inhabitants, pre-Christian lore, and the influence of Christianity during that era. is praised for its historical accuracy, engaging narrative, and the portrayal of Brian Boru as a flawed but visionary leader who played a significant role in shaping the history of Ireland.
To the youngest child of a large and brawling family, privacy is a rare thing. Brian always seemed to be walking in someone else’s shadow. He had sought this hill because, at the moment, no one else c...1980•553 pages - #9
Save:A balanced, accessible, and comprehensive introduction to the Troubles - must-read for newcomers or anyone wanting the big picture in clear language!
'Making Sense Of The Troubles' by David McKittrick is a comprehensive and unbiased narrative of the conflict in Northern Ireland. The book delves into the history, players, larger issues, and timelines of the Troubles, providing a thorough understanding of the complexities involved. The writing style is described as well-structured, precise, and informative, making it an essential reference for those looking to grasp the nuances of the conflict.
The book covers over 30 years of history related to the conflict, offering a broad overview rather than a deep dive into specific events or personalities. Despite the vast amount of information, the authors manage to present it in an easy-to-follow and engaging manner, making it accessible even to those new to the topic. Readers appreciate the balanced and unbiased approach taken by the author, as well as the inclusion of a historic timeline and supportive tables that enhance the understanding of the Troubles.
The Orange Order, a Protestant organisation viewed by Catholics as bigoted and anti-Catholic but regarded by most Protestants as an important guardian of their heritage, held an important place in pol...2000•378 pages A rigorous, passionate, and essential history of the Troubles, best suited for history buffs and anyone wanting to truly grapple with the roots and repercussions of Northern Ireland's conflict. Be ready for a complex, sometimes challenging journey, but you'll come away far more informed.
The Troubles: Ireland's Ordeal 1966-1996 and the Search for Peace by Tim Pat Coogan is a detailed examination of the Northern Ireland conflict, covering its origins, major events, and the quest for peace culminating in the Good Friday Agreement. The book doesn't shy away from the painful realities of the violence, with Coogan drawing on primary sources and personal testimonies to illustrate the deep divisions between the nationalist Catholic and unionist Protestant communities.
Coogan's writing style is journalistic yet thorough, combining his expansive knowledge of Irish history with a candid perspective on the conflict. He openly acknowledges his nationalist inclinations, aiming to present a balanced view while providing intricate details about the various factions involved. Some readers may find the depth of detail challenging, but his clear narrative helps to track the progression of events and offers insights into the complexities of the Troubles.
This country, with its institutions, belongs to the people who inhabit it. Whenever they shall grow weary of the existing government, they can exercise their constitutional right of amending it, or th...1995•527 pages
