Of Irish Ways

by Mary Murray Delaney, Mary M. Delany

A fascinating look at Ireland--its history, traditions, and people. "Reading the book and looking at Rein's drawings are like visiting a part of the world which is still unspoiled and lovely."-- Publishers Weekly

Genres: Ireland, History, Nonfiction, Travel, Irish Literature

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1973

Reviews

[Kim Ess · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're fortunate enough to be traveling to Ireland any time soon I suggest you pick this book up if you can find it. It was published in the early 1970's but it's full of history so actually timeless info. I stumbled upon it at my local thrift store. Since I have some Irish ancestors I thought it would be nice to learn about some of the history and old ways of life in the Emerald Isle. This book is full of fast paced facts which I loved. I appreciate how the author really packed so much information into one book. If I can finish a book and then be inspired to continue learning more on the subject I consider it a great read.

[Mariah · Rating 2 out of 5]

No, it does not offer a complete look at Irish culture. The author picks and chooses her topics. I thought this would enlighten me about Irish culture, not about one subjective lady's musings about Irish culture.

[Glen · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting overview of Ireland's history, culture, and prospects written in 1973, the book is, not surprisingly, quite dated in some of its assertions about the Irish character (aren't all assertions about "national character" fraught with peril?) and was written before such momentous developments as the IRA hunger strikes of 1981, the Good Friday Accord, the rise of the "Celtic Tiger", and the sad and horrific disclosures of physical and sexual abuse at the hands of Ireland's Catholic clergy. Still and all, there is much of value in these pages, and even some of the author's more idiosyncratic assertions and observations are revelatory of a certain perspective still present, if not prevalent, in 21st century Ireland. There are better books one could read for a overview of the modern nation, but doubtless there are worse as well. The chapters on the Hedge Schools and the famous women of Eire were especially well done.

[Christine Jensen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Excellent book! I loved the stories and the history. Mary did a fine job of conveying the folk tales and covered many subjects in such a small acoounting. It certainly references many other authors for one to be able to do a complete study of Irish Literature.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the very best books I've read concerning Ireland and Irish history. It goes from the past to the present from an Irish persons point of view. A little mystic and a lot Irish. I would recommend this to anyone that thinks Irish.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

You need a basic understanding of Irish history, as several times the author references things but dies not explain the context (assuming the reader knows). Some interesting information, but a bit disorganized.

[Jessica]

This is another that I am bringing on my trip! Thanks Dad!

[Katy M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative and an easy read. I had trouble getting through the physical descriptions of the first two chapters, but I think that's just because I don't have a visual mind.