The Craic: A Journey Through Ireland

by Mark McCrum

From the romantic to the gritty, from Dublin as a cheap weekend getaway to the Irish theme pubs on almost every English high street, no one can escape the fact that Irish culture is perhaps more popular than ever. Mark McCrum explores the heart of contemporary Ireland, gaining an impression of its culture and politics through meeting its people. Starting in Dublin and roaming south and around the coast, McCrum turns north and completes his trek at the ruin of the old McCrum family seat. On the way he attends the Puck Fair, goes to a beach where bones from victims of the Potato Famine lie unburied, and experiences the mix of good conversation, good company, and a little Guinness.

Genres: Travel, Nonfiction

416 pages, Paperback

First published June 24, 1999

Reviews

[Travelling1964 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Got it in a charity shop. One quid. Is it worth it? Yes, on balance it is. There are things which grate, especially his attraction to each female he sees.
He is condescending to the people of Ireland but like everyone else writing condescending crap he will drink the pumps dry in a pub while mocking the people in his book plan for later.
The Puck festival sounds interesting. He also sheds much light on Irish history, he speaks to veterans of The Troubles and comes across as a man wanting peace. Some of it is mildly amusing . A nice decent travelogue all in all.
I hated the bit where he goes to observe sheep being slaughtered. Absolutely disgusting.

[Conor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent to find out what others think of ireland, interesting information in his ancestor William invented(suggested to the IFA) the penalty kick, also found out his ancestor played chess in some early games in organised chess in ireland.

[Grace_Notes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Balanced well written humurous and insightful - captured the essence of the people!