Tommy Makem's Secret Ireland [Hardcover]

Tommy Makem (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 1997

A beloved Irish folk singer shares his homeland with readers in this charming tour of his favorite Irish sites and sounds, which brings to life the rich legends and history of this popular travel destination. 10,000 first printing."

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Makem, the popular banjo player and Irish folk singer, takes readers on a "personal tour" of his homeland. Each chapter focuses on a particular region of Ireland, including pictures and descriptions of the monuments and cities mentioned, as well as the author's personal memories and the lyrics of the related Irish folk songs. While the text includes a comprehensive assortment of facts, legends, and historical information, the writing is disjointed and simplistic. Had Makem teamed up with a good writer, his book could have been a treasure. Unfortunately, the poor writing overpowers all else, and this book is not recommended.?Kathleen A. Shanahan, American Univ. Lib., Silver Spring, Md.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Lovers of Irish music have enjoyed listening to Makem (and the Clancy Brothers) for decades, as much for ebullient, melodious songs as for the stories they tell. In this wonderfully personal guide to Ireland, Makem provides a unique itinerary characterized by his rich knowledge of Ireland's cities, charming small towns, and out-of-the-way villages. Numerous ancient sites are pointed out in detail, with Makem providing colorful vignettes and mythic renderings of life as it might have been in centuries past. Just as the country is brimming with fascinating historical settings and points of interest with wide appeal, Makem highlights sparkling gems wherever he finds them--in natural landscapes, architectural wonders, and Ireland's warmly welcoming populace. Makem's guide will allow all visitors who explore the Emerald Isle to share in a bountiful treasure trove of experiences and sights. Alice Joyce

Product Details

• Hardcover: 200 pages
• Publisher: St Martins Pr; 1st edition (August 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312156758
• ISBN-13: 978-0312156756
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,432,648 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Tommy Makem's Secret Ireland, June 26, 2000

By 

Martha J. Rozkydal "Martie" (Palmer, Alaska) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Tommy Makem's Secret Ireland (Hardcover)

I ordered the book because of the author. I have long enjoyed his singing, and admired his song writing ability, so expected to enjoy the book. I was not disappointed. Makem gives us a tour around his favorite spots in Ireland, taking us to less familiar places. The travelogue is interspersed with anecdotes about his own experiences in these places. The book is well-written, enjoyable reading. Anticipating a trip to Ireland in the near future, I have just ordered my fourth copy of the book.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Tommy Makem's Secret Ireland, December 5, 2010

By 

Old Slow Guy - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Tommy Makem's Secret Ireland (Hardcover)

I had bought the book for myself previously, and was so impressed with it that I bought a copy for my daughter and son-in-law who are making a trip to Ireland with us.