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Eyes That Do Not See
This book is an absolute must-read if your Irish ancestors immigrated to America during the famine years! Even more so if they fought in the Civil War or were among the homestead settlers of the plains. Based on the life story of Henry Kearney, an Irish orphan, from his birth and time in a workhouse to a steeplechase jockey, an ocean passage on a famine ship, Confederate service in the Civil War, finding true love, and finally homesteading in Nebraska in the 1880s and 1890s. It's a captivating read from beginning to end.
From the
“What if I don’t want to be in the army but just want to go home?” “Well then, you being from Illinois, we would have to assume you are either a Yankee sympathizer or a coward. Either way, you would probably be shot.”
From the
“What if I don’t want to be in the army but just want to go home?” “Well then, you being from Illinois, we would have to assume you are either a Yankee sympathizer or a coward. Either way, you would probably be shot.”
- GenresIrelandHistorical
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2023
13 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 16, 2023
From days as a potato farmer's child during the blight, to a County Cork workhouse, to living with his shoemaker grandfather who wouldn't speak to him, Henry Charles Kearney had a very rough start. The boy would leave his home country of Ireland to travel by "coffin ship" to the United States by himself. Unable to read and write, in later years his wife, Mary Ann Jones Kearney, would fill notebooks with the stories he told about his childhood, workhouse, training and racing horses, as a Civil War soldier and then she recorded the family experiences living as homesteaders. What a life.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley and this is my own unsolicited opinion about it. The book, written by Kent Kearney, the great, great grandson of Henry, is to me, an important piece of Irish American history. It is emotional, filled with historical value and makes me think of my own Irish ancestors along with those of my husband. I deeply appreciate that the Kearney family shares Henry's life in novel form with readers who are proud of their Irish heritage. It filled this reader with emotion about the suffering that was endured by a people who were also persecuted and enslaved by others. Henry is a person who rose above many horrendous experiences, including great tragedy and persevered. This is a story worth reading for many reasons.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley and this is my own unsolicited opinion about it. The book, written by Kent Kearney, the great, great grandson of Henry, is to me, an important piece of Irish American history. It is emotional, filled with historical value and makes me think of my own Irish ancestors along with those of my husband. I deeply appreciate that the Kearney family shares Henry's life in novel form with readers who are proud of their Irish heritage. It filled this reader with emotion about the suffering that was endured by a people who were also persecuted and enslaved by others. Henry is a person who rose above many horrendous experiences, including great tragedy and persevered. This is a story worth reading for many reasons.
August 20, 2023
Only at 25%, but this is highly recommended. I’m addicted to reading it. Will update as I continue/finish.
Chapter 8 mentions a Maximillian O’Toole who instructs Hank/Henry regarding the tanning process.
At 35%. Better than historical fiction. Still loving this one!
So at chapter 23 (approx 70%), I decided to jump to the end and read authors notes or acknowledgements. Oops … this book is based on Kent Kearney’s great grandfather, but is his first novel. (The cover clearly indicates A NOVEL.) I feel that I’ve learned more about the Irish from this book than any that I’ve ever read. Even though it is historical fiction, I’m still loving this book and really enjoying the unique writing style. Pretty sure that I’ll have it finished tonight.
Yep. Finished tonight. I really enjoyed Eyes That Do Not See. (From the Biography at the end of the book) Kent Kearney (the author) and his daughter took a trip to Ireland in an attempt to find out more about his great grandfather Henry Kearney, but were largely unsuccessful. They found little about him but learned a great deal about the history of Ireland. This book brought that history to life and it seemed so personal. I'm so glad that I read Eyes That Do Not See.
Publication date was May 9, 2023. Thank you to NetGalley for (yet once again) introducing me to a "new to me" (and everyone else) debut author Kent Kearney. This honest review is in exchange for the opportunity to read the advance read copy. Thank you to publisher The Happy Self Publisher for approving my NetGalley request.
Chapter 8 mentions a Maximillian O’Toole who instructs Hank/Henry regarding the tanning process.
At 35%. Better than historical fiction. Still loving this one!
So at chapter 23 (approx 70%), I decided to jump to the end and read authors notes or acknowledgements. Oops … this book is based on Kent Kearney’s great grandfather, but is his first novel. (The cover clearly indicates A NOVEL.) I feel that I’ve learned more about the Irish from this book than any that I’ve ever read. Even though it is historical fiction, I’m still loving this book and really enjoying the unique writing style. Pretty sure that I’ll have it finished tonight.
Yep. Finished tonight. I really enjoyed Eyes That Do Not See. (From the Biography at the end of the book) Kent Kearney (the author) and his daughter took a trip to Ireland in an attempt to find out more about his great grandfather Henry Kearney, but were largely unsuccessful. They found little about him but learned a great deal about the history of Ireland. This book brought that history to life and it seemed so personal. I'm so glad that I read Eyes That Do Not See.
Publication date was May 9, 2023. Thank you to NetGalley for (yet once again) introducing me to a "new to me" (and everyone else) debut author Kent Kearney. This honest review is in exchange for the opportunity to read the advance read copy. Thank you to publisher The Happy Self Publisher for approving my NetGalley request.
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August 24, 2023Eyes That Do Not See
I liked this book. The book is Eyes That Do Not See by Kent Kearney, I thank Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for letting me read it in return for an honest review.
The story reminds us of the types of things many of our ancestors endured to find a better life for both them and their descendants.
In this case it was a boy who survived the Irish potato famine, traveled to the United States, got caught in our Civil War, and later homesteaded on the plains of Nebraska. In summary, lots of bad luck with a few lucky breaks.
Although this story featured an Irish immigrant and his experiences, there are probably parts that someone with non-Irish ancestors, or Irish ancestors who had very different experiences, can identify with. For example, many of my Irish ancestors came decades after the famine and settled in New York City. For those less familiar with some events in the book, there is an Appendix at the end of the book which tells you a bit about them as well as a list of books if you want to learn more.
The book is well-written and tells the story of one family but shows us a bit of what our ancestors went through. The Kindle version is a great deal (at least when I checked).
I liked this book. The book is Eyes That Do Not See by Kent Kearney, I thank Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for letting me read it in return for an honest review.
The story reminds us of the types of things many of our ancestors endured to find a better life for both them and their descendants.
In this case it was a boy who survived the Irish potato famine, traveled to the United States, got caught in our Civil War, and later homesteaded on the plains of Nebraska. In summary, lots of bad luck with a few lucky breaks.
Although this story featured an Irish immigrant and his experiences, there are probably parts that someone with non-Irish ancestors, or Irish ancestors who had very different experiences, can identify with. For example, many of my Irish ancestors came decades after the famine and settled in New York City. For those less familiar with some events in the book, there is an Appendix at the end of the book which tells you a bit about them as well as a list of books if you want to learn more.
The book is well-written and tells the story of one family but shows us a bit of what our ancestors went through. The Kindle version is a great deal (at least when I checked).
November 4, 2023
262 pages
4 stars
I will never understand how people can be so inhumane to others. I believed that I was relatively familiar with Irish history. No. I had no idea just how bad things were. I knew about the famine and the suppression of the Irish in general. But, I had no idea at the sheer vitriol aimed at Irish Catholics by the English Protestants. They are both Christian faiths. Is this how Christains treat one another? A question I still ask about today’s society.
This book tells the real life story of Henry Kearney. Orphaned at age eleven, he is totally alone. Through the kindness of strangers, he travels to a workhouse. From there he is taken by relatives to a very nice home where he learns rudimentary writing skills, does chores gladly and is able to exercise his love of horses.
He goes on to have many adventures, including training horses for the track and steeplechases, Eventually, traveling to Ohio, USA aboard a “coffin ship.” And it was, especially when typhus hits the ship. He meets more welcoming relatives there and becomes the go to young man for horse training.
The reader follows Henry’s life through the Civil War, his love and marriage to Mary Ann and the family’s move to Nebraska. Through hardships, the extended family perseveres and flourishes.
This is a lovely story. This book is both fascinating and interesting. I like reading about other peoples’ lives. Suffering so much adversity, Henry maintained his optimistic outlook on life. He was able to participate in his two loves: marriage to Mary Ann and training horses.
This book is very well written. I felt I got to know Henry and his wife quite well. I almost felt as though I had a personal relationship with them. I truly enjoyed this novel, and hope that Mr. Kearney writes more.
I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
4 stars
I will never understand how people can be so inhumane to others. I believed that I was relatively familiar with Irish history. No. I had no idea just how bad things were. I knew about the famine and the suppression of the Irish in general. But, I had no idea at the sheer vitriol aimed at Irish Catholics by the English Protestants. They are both Christian faiths. Is this how Christains treat one another? A question I still ask about today’s society.
This book tells the real life story of Henry Kearney. Orphaned at age eleven, he is totally alone. Through the kindness of strangers, he travels to a workhouse. From there he is taken by relatives to a very nice home where he learns rudimentary writing skills, does chores gladly and is able to exercise his love of horses.
He goes on to have many adventures, including training horses for the track and steeplechases, Eventually, traveling to Ohio, USA aboard a “coffin ship.” And it was, especially when typhus hits the ship. He meets more welcoming relatives there and becomes the go to young man for horse training.
The reader follows Henry’s life through the Civil War, his love and marriage to Mary Ann and the family’s move to Nebraska. Through hardships, the extended family perseveres and flourishes.
This is a lovely story. This book is both fascinating and interesting. I like reading about other peoples’ lives. Suffering so much adversity, Henry maintained his optimistic outlook on life. He was able to participate in his two loves: marriage to Mary Ann and training horses.
This book is very well written. I felt I got to know Henry and his wife quite well. I almost felt as though I had a personal relationship with them. I truly enjoyed this novel, and hope that Mr. Kearney writes more.
I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
August 14, 2023
Henry Kearney was a child of the Great Potato Famine in Ireland. It was during that time that Henry became an orphan and ended up in one of Ireland's workhouse. But a letter he obtained from his father saved him as he was taken out and by his grandmother and his family. Henry had an incredible life as we read about his journey from Ireland to America. His struggles were many both in Ireland as a horse trainer, working on a family farm and then as luck would have it as an immigrant in America. Knowing nothing about America and being somewhat naïve, we watch as Henry is swindled out of most of his money ($40.00), how the Civil War impacted him and how every skill and experience was valuable as he journeyed through life.
The book begins with one of Henry's ancestors finds an old notebook detailing Henry's life It was amazing and even more so since the author was detailing his great-grandfather's life. In this book we are given the history of Ireland during the Potato Famine, we read the Irish struggle during that time as well as what it was like to immigrate to a new land. There are faces on these people, faces you will come to cheer on as you learn their history. From the workhouses to a steeplechase jockey, surviving a famine ship, fighting in the Civil War, finding love, and homesteading in 1880s Nebraska, this is not only Henry's life but a remarkable story. Highly recommended.
The book begins with one of Henry's ancestors finds an old notebook detailing Henry's life It was amazing and even more so since the author was detailing his great-grandfather's life. In this book we are given the history of Ireland during the Potato Famine, we read the Irish struggle during that time as well as what it was like to immigrate to a new land. There are faces on these people, faces you will come to cheer on as you learn their history. From the workhouses to a steeplechase jockey, surviving a famine ship, fighting in the Civil War, finding love, and homesteading in 1880s Nebraska, this is not only Henry's life but a remarkable story. Highly recommended.
September 13, 2023
What a remarkable story, all the more so for being true & well worth recording : thankyou, Mary Ann! An absolute gift for future generations, finding such a trove to learn about their family’s journey.
This is very well-written & easy to read, it is quite possible to finish it in one sitting as it certainly holds the interest.
Although I have read a great many books on Irish history, this has taught me from an ‘insider’s’, Irish point of view. (I hadn’t realised they had been forbidden by the English to be educated at all, even to learn to read & write!) It certainly does give some understanding to their attitude today...
Likewise with the American Civil War – despite all my reading over the years, I really hadn’t thought about what the future was like for the men who lost limbs, or eyesight, & were unable to return to their previous occupations.
I loved the 7 Ls, & appreciated the additional history notes at the end of the book. Definitely recommended!
This is very well-written & easy to read, it is quite possible to finish it in one sitting as it certainly holds the interest.
Although I have read a great many books on Irish history, this has taught me from an ‘insider’s’, Irish point of view. (I hadn’t realised they had been forbidden by the English to be educated at all, even to learn to read & write!) It certainly does give some understanding to their attitude today...
Likewise with the American Civil War – despite all my reading over the years, I really hadn’t thought about what the future was like for the men who lost limbs, or eyesight, & were unable to return to their previous occupations.
I loved the 7 Ls, & appreciated the additional history notes at the end of the book. Definitely recommended!
September 7, 2023
It was an interesting read that I never knew about. I learned many new things about the Irish way of life.
It kept me engaged throughout the whole book.
With excellent writing, this new to me author has brought an historic figure to life.
However, there were some parts that did drag a bit. But that's ok too.
This man and his family had a hard life, but I enjoyed reading about their journey.
There was hope, fear, love, and liberty.
4 stars for some excellent writing. I recommend this novel that will teach you many things that school did not.
I really enjoyed the author's notes at the end. To me, that was a special touch. They are what makes a book that much more interesting.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
It kept me engaged throughout the whole book.
With excellent writing, this new to me author has brought an historic figure to life.
However, there were some parts that did drag a bit. But that's ok too.
This man and his family had a hard life, but I enjoyed reading about their journey.
There was hope, fear, love, and liberty.
4 stars for some excellent writing. I recommend this novel that will teach you many things that school did not.
I really enjoyed the author's notes at the end. To me, that was a special touch. They are what makes a book that much more interesting.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 8, 2023
A lot of detail and descriptions in the book . The author was thorough in his research of the life of Henry Kearney whose life was one of a continued struggle . I found the beginning of the book quite interesting but when Henry fought in the Civil War and the life of Belgian horses steeplechase races etc. a bit tedious at times. The author did not miss much in Henry’s life . His boots made by his grandfather saw him through most of the events in his life. Lots to absorb historically in this book as well as personally in the lives of the characters. The book was more like a history text with some human interactions which were more interesting to read.
November 28, 2023
I am so pleased I picked this book to read, it’s the amazing story of Henry (Hank ) Kearney and his life which takes him from Ireland to America. Henry’s story was written by his wife and love of his life and found as journals in a box in a cupboard by her family upon her passing. This man had an amazing life but the hardship he endured was off set by happiness in his later years. He went through desperation, unfairness, sadness but overall he had a family he loved and a talent with horses and a happy family. This is an amazing book based on true events and a must read written by a family member.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Booksgosocial for the amazing read.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Booksgosocial for the amazing read.
February 14, 2025
A few mistakes here and there and I felt that the end was quite rushed compared to the buildup. However, it is a beautiful historical fiction tale of migration, work, love, and loss. I deeply felt for the protagonist, Henry, who, despite his tough start in life, pushed on until the end. It is a tale of hope despite tragedy and emotionally depicts the true stories of many Irish individuals who migrated to Northern America after the Irish famine. I definitely shed a few tears while reading this! Thank you, NetGalley.
December 29, 2024
My grandpas book!!
January 8, 2025
4.5*
I love a good immigration, US hf, or homstead read & this had all of that.
I love a good immigration, US hf, or homstead read & this had all of that.
November 20, 2025
only read 50%, met the author, there was really no journal found
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2023
"Eyes That Do Not See" unveils a remarkable saga, chronicling the remarkable spirit of Henry Kearney. His story transcends time with unwavering resilience.
Kent Kearney's novel is wonderful. He draws inspiration from his great-grandfather's life, composing a narrative that pulsates with the vitality of an era marked by hardship and determination.
Kearney unapologetically portrays life's hardships, mirrored in Henry's unwavering resolve to persevere. The pages depicting the tumultuous journey through workhouses, famine ships, Civil War battlefields, and the plains of Nebraska. Kearney's text breathes life into each scene, inviting readers to witness the tenacity and resilience of a man shaped by adversity.
Kearney interweaves perspectives of Henry's descendants, piecing together his legacy from a discovered journal. This approach adds depth and infuses the plot with a sense of lineage, making Henry's trials and triumphs echo through generations.
Kearney's attention to historical authenticity enriches this novel. The portrayal of immigrant struggles and the nation's spirit during the Civil War era creates an immersive experience, appealing to enthusiasts of Irish heritage, Civil War history, and the allure of the American frontier.
'Eyes That Do Not See' is a profound exploration of the human spirit's resilience. Henry Kearney's journey, brimming with love, loss, and perseverance, has left a lasting impression on my heart. This captivating book illustrates the strength of the human soul and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
"A breathtaking journey through hardship and triumph, 'Eyes That Do Not See' embodies the spirit of a man determined to carve his destiny."
"Kent Kearney's storytelling breathes life into history, capturing the essence of resilience amidst the trials of famine, war, and the untamed American frontier."
"An epic tale of courage and perseverance, Henry Kearney's odyssey resonates with the unwavering determination to conquer adversity."
"Immersive and authentic, this novel illuminates the immigrant experience and the enduring spirit that shapes a nation."
"From the desolation of Ireland to the unforgiving plains of Nebraska, 'Eyes That Do Not See' weaves a captivating narrative, echoing the resilience of a generation."
Kent Kearney's novel is wonderful. He draws inspiration from his great-grandfather's life, composing a narrative that pulsates with the vitality of an era marked by hardship and determination.
Kearney unapologetically portrays life's hardships, mirrored in Henry's unwavering resolve to persevere. The pages depicting the tumultuous journey through workhouses, famine ships, Civil War battlefields, and the plains of Nebraska. Kearney's text breathes life into each scene, inviting readers to witness the tenacity and resilience of a man shaped by adversity.
Kearney interweaves perspectives of Henry's descendants, piecing together his legacy from a discovered journal. This approach adds depth and infuses the plot with a sense of lineage, making Henry's trials and triumphs echo through generations.
Kearney's attention to historical authenticity enriches this novel. The portrayal of immigrant struggles and the nation's spirit during the Civil War era creates an immersive experience, appealing to enthusiasts of Irish heritage, Civil War history, and the allure of the American frontier.
'Eyes That Do Not See' is a profound exploration of the human spirit's resilience. Henry Kearney's journey, brimming with love, loss, and perseverance, has left a lasting impression on my heart. This captivating book illustrates the strength of the human soul and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
"A breathtaking journey through hardship and triumph, 'Eyes That Do Not See' embodies the spirit of a man determined to carve his destiny."
"Kent Kearney's storytelling breathes life into history, capturing the essence of resilience amidst the trials of famine, war, and the untamed American frontier."
"An epic tale of courage and perseverance, Henry Kearney's odyssey resonates with the unwavering determination to conquer adversity."
"Immersive and authentic, this novel illuminates the immigrant experience and the enduring spirit that shapes a nation."
"From the desolation of Ireland to the unforgiving plains of Nebraska, 'Eyes That Do Not See' weaves a captivating narrative, echoing the resilience of a generation."
November 4, 2023
262 pages
4 stars
I will never understand how people can be so inhumane to others. I believed that I was relatively familiar with Irish history. No. I had no idea just how bad things were. I knew about the famine and the suppression of the Irish in general. But, I had no idea at the sheer vitriol aimed at Irish Catholics by the English Protestants. They are both Christian faiths. Is this how Christains treat one another? A question I still ask about today’s society.
This book tells the real life story of Henry Kearney. Orphaned at age eleven, he is totally alone. Through the kindness of strangers, he travels to a workhouse. From there he is taken by relatives to a very nice home where he learns rudimentary writing skills, does chores gladly and is able to exercise his love of horses.
He goes on to have many adventures, including training horses for the track and steeplechases, Eventually, traveling to Ohio, USA aboard a “coffin ship.” And it was, especially when typhus hits the ship. He meets more welcoming relatives there and becomes the go to young man for horse training.
The reader follows Henry’s life through the Civil War, his love and marriage to Mary Ann and the family’s move to Nebraska. Through hardships, the extended family perseveres and flourishes.
This is a lovely story. This book is both fascinating and interesting. I like reading about other peoples’ lives. Suffering so much adversity, Henry maintained his optimistic outlook on life. He was able to participate in his two loves: marriage to Mary Ann and training horses.
This book is very well written. I felt I got to know Henry and his wife quite well. I almost felt as though I had a personal relationship with them. I truly enjoyed this novel, and hope that Mr. Kearney writes more.
I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
4 stars
I will never understand how people can be so inhumane to others. I believed that I was relatively familiar with Irish history. No. I had no idea just how bad things were. I knew about the famine and the suppression of the Irish in general. But, I had no idea at the sheer vitriol aimed at Irish Catholics by the English Protestants. They are both Christian faiths. Is this how Christains treat one another? A question I still ask about today’s society.
This book tells the real life story of Henry Kearney. Orphaned at age eleven, he is totally alone. Through the kindness of strangers, he travels to a workhouse. From there he is taken by relatives to a very nice home where he learns rudimentary writing skills, does chores gladly and is able to exercise his love of horses.
He goes on to have many adventures, including training horses for the track and steeplechases, Eventually, traveling to Ohio, USA aboard a “coffin ship.” And it was, especially when typhus hits the ship. He meets more welcoming relatives there and becomes the go to young man for horse training.
The reader follows Henry’s life through the Civil War, his love and marriage to Mary Ann and the family’s move to Nebraska. Through hardships, the extended family perseveres and flourishes.
This is a lovely story. This book is both fascinating and interesting. I like reading about other peoples’ lives. Suffering so much adversity, Henry maintained his optimistic outlook on life. He was able to participate in his two loves: marriage to Mary Ann and training horses.
This book is very well written. I felt I got to know Henry and his wife quite well. I almost felt as though I had a personal relationship with them. I truly enjoyed this novel, and hope that Mr. Kearney writes more.
I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
June 29, 2023
Fascinating read about a man who survived the potatoe famine, the English, traveled to the US and became a horse trainer, fought in the civil war, and married the love of his life. Lives like this won't be lived again.
Henry Kearney's story is told through the eyes of his wife's journals, a treasure found in teh back of a closet. It is a wonderful and interesting account of his life but likely paralles the lisves of many families in the midwest before and after the civil war.
The story resonates with me for many reasons; I lived in the midwest, Nebraska in particular, and saw many of the sod houses and old homesteads, I love horses and spent many years riding, and I am a veteran who has learned to manage my PTSD, something Henry and many others were not able to.
It is an adventure tale with romance weaved in, showing strong ties between family and friends. This is not an easy afternoon read but a deep dive into what makes a community and how America was formed.
Henry Kearney's story is told through the eyes of his wife's journals, a treasure found in teh back of a closet. It is a wonderful and interesting account of his life but likely paralles the lisves of many families in the midwest before and after the civil war.
The story resonates with me for many reasons; I lived in the midwest, Nebraska in particular, and saw many of the sod houses and old homesteads, I love horses and spent many years riding, and I am a veteran who has learned to manage my PTSD, something Henry and many others were not able to.
It is an adventure tale with romance weaved in, showing strong ties between family and friends. This is not an easy afternoon read but a deep dive into what makes a community and how America was formed.
December 29, 2023
Eyes That Do Not See tells the life story of Henry Kearney. He grows up in Ireland and immigrates to America in the 1800s, going through various difficulties and struggles along the way.
I thought the author wrote with a good eye to detail and captured the way the relationships between friends and family impact people. There was also interesting aspects about history, both Irish and American. I’m glad this author chose to share this story!
I thought the author wrote with a good eye to detail and captured the way the relationships between friends and family impact people. There was also interesting aspects about history, both Irish and American. I’m glad this author chose to share this story!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews