Customer Reviews

The Story Of Ireland

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The Good: Ever want to know the story of Ireland from day one to 1913?? Read this book! Emily Lawless covers Irish history thoroughly and seemlessly as she moves from one year to the next, covering a myriad of players and events all written in a way that is easy to understand. If you are a casual historian like I am, or just love our beloved Green Isle, this is a must read for you!

The Bad: Not necessarily due to the author, but there are a few times that some players get confusing. Ireland's history is so vast and cluttered with tyranny and heroism alike that I found myself getting lost at times. I believe that Emily, with the room she had, handled all this wel though.

The Ugly: As I was nearing the end of the book, and rounding out the 1800's, I was anxious to see what she had written about Ireland's 1916 heroic stand against the occupying British. I was astounded to find that the books stops several years before that happens! Now this was a Kindle download so I didn't get to see the publish date but assume it was pre-1916 because she asks in wonderment what the next years will bring. So that was a little disappoionting and anyone looking for information on 1916 will not get it here.

The Verdict: Well worth the read. This book was informative and entertaining without being bloated by the author's speculation or feelings on the issues.

This book is difficult to read. The author jumps around from point to historical point as if you could read his mind. You might be able to follow the book if you are already intimately familiar with Irish history; if not, you'll find some enlightening sections and some Holy-Mackerel, WTF sections.

Overall, I know more about the homeland of my grandparents and that's good.

My interest in ireland, prompted me to get this book on my e-reader; it was an interesting read and gave me some deeper insight nto Ireland than I had previously had.

This is worth reading for the language alone. The author has a wonderful way of describing places, people, and events. Even though I am not enthralled with the subject of Irish history, I keep returning to the book because I enjoy reading it.