In Search of Ireland's Heroes - by Carmel McCaffrey (Paperback)

About the Book

The story of the struggle between English and Irish aspirations in the ages since the first English incursions into Ireland in the twelfth century, with particular emphasis on the individuals behind the events. Illustrated.

Book Synopsis

A history of Ireland from the twelfth century to the present, following on the author's highly successful In Search of Ancient Ireland. In addition to plumbing the historical record, Ms. McCaffrey discusses the leading Irish families and their social roles, and the great castles and homes that dot the Irish countryside. The history comes alive for the present-day reader. Illustrated.

Review Quotes

"This is a great story, interesting to read and appealing to anyone with an interest in Ireland...McCaffrey uses original sources when possible, yet this is a readable history, not a textbook. She offers fascinating insights into the daily life, dress, housing and personalities of the Irish." --Carroll County Times

"The hero stories engage, the scene-setting shines as both scholarly and readable, and the character descriptions run deep....Magnificent collection." --Michael Phelps, Examiner

"There've been plenty of books on Irish history but none quite so vivid and accessible asIn Search of Ireland's Heroes... [which stands] solidly both as a companion volume and as an innovative history by itself." --California Bookwatch

"McCaffrey has succeeded in compiling a history of Ireland which is completely accessible without losing credibility." --Irish Emigrant

"Written with verve and passion...In Search of Ireland's Heroes is a welcome challenge to conservative interpretations of Ireland's history." --Kerby Miller, University of Missouri

About the Author

Carmel McCaffrey is a native of Dublin and lectures on Irish history, literature, culture, and language at Johns Hopkins University and at the Smithsonian Institution. She is a Gaelic speaker and frequently travels to Ireland. Her earlier book, In Search of Ancient Ireland, written with Leo Eaton, was a companion to the PBS series. She lives in Mount Airy, Maryland.