The best 22 Ireland books

A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916) explores the maturation of Stephen Dedalus, an introspective and artistically inclined young man grappling with personal and national identity, religion, and aesthetic philosophy. It frames the universally relatable struggle of growing up and self-discovery.

Angela's Ashes is a memoir that tells the story of Frank McCourt's childhood in poverty-stricken Ireland. It chronicles his family's struggles to survive, his father's alcoholism, and his mother's determination to provide for her children. Despite the hardships, the book also captures moments of humor and resilience, offering a poignant and unforgettable account of a young boy's coming-of-age.

Skippy Dies by Paul Murray is a darkly comedic coming-of-age novel that delves into the lives of a group of teenage boys at a boarding school in Dublin. When 14-year-old Skippy dies unexpectedly, the book explores the events leading up to his death and the impact it has on those around him. With a mix of humor and poignancy, the novel examines friendship, love, and the struggles of adolescence.

A Week in Winter is a heartwarming novel by Maeve Binchy that takes place in a small coastal town in Ireland. It follows the story of Chicky Starr, who decides to fulfill her dream of opening a guesthouse in a beautiful old mansion. As the guests arrive, each with their own unique stories and struggles, they find solace, friendship, and a sense of belonging in this charming seaside retreat.

Quentins is a captivating novel by Maeve Binchy that delves into the lives of the staff and customers of a popular Dublin restaurant. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Ireland, the book explores themes of love, friendship, and the power of community. With its richly drawn characters and heartwarming storytelling, it offers a delightful and insightful glimpse into the human experience.

Scarlet Feather is a heartwarming tale of friendship, love, and pursuing dreams. Set in Dublin, it follows Cathy and Tom, two friends who start a catering business together. As they navigate the challenges of running a company and dealing with personal struggles, they learn the true meaning of loyalty and the importance of following your passion.

Star of the Sea by Joseph O'Connor is a gripping historical novel set during the Irish famine. Through the intertwining stories of passengers aboard the ship Star of the Sea, O'Connor delves into themes of poverty, power, and the human spirit. The book offers a haunting portrayal of a tragic period in history and the resilience of those who lived through it.

The Glass Lake by Maeve Binchy is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of family, love, and secrets. Set in a small Irish town, the story follows Kit McMahon as she uncovers long-buried truths about her mother's disappearance and her own identity. With beautifully drawn characters and a richly woven narrative, this book explores the power of forgiveness and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Spinning Heart by Donal Ryan is a powerful novel that delves into the lives of a small community in rural Ireland in the aftermath of the economic recession. Through multiple perspectives, it uncovers the secrets, struggles, and resilience of the characters, painting a vivid portrait of a society in turmoil.

The Gathering by Anne Enright delves into the complexities of family relationships and the impact of buried secrets. It follows Veronica as she uncovers the truth about her brother's troubled past and its ripple effects on their dysfunctional family. Enright's poignant prose and raw portrayal of human emotions make this novel a compelling exploration of grief, memory, and the ties that bind us.

Milkman by Anna Burns is a powerful novel that delves into the complexities of life during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Through the eyes of an unnamed protagonist, the story explores themes of fear, oppression, and the power of rumor. With its unique narrative style and compelling characters, this book offers a thought-provoking examination of the impact of political conflict on ordinary people.

Heart and Soul by Maeve Binchy is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of a group of individuals connected by their experiences at a heart clinic in Dublin. As they navigate their personal and professional challenges, their stories intertwine to reveal the power of love, friendship, and second chances. With Binchy's signature warmth and insight, this book is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of the human heart.

Conversations with Friends is a thought-provoking novel that delves into complex relationships and the intricacies of human connection. Set in Dublin, it follows the story of Frances, a young college student, and her ex-girlfriend Bobbi, as they navigate their friendship with an older married couple. Through Rooney's sharp and insightful prose, the book explores themes of love, betrayal, and the blurred boundaries between friendship and romance.

The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry is a poignant novel that delves into the life of a woman named Roseanne McNulty, who has spent most of her life in a mental institution in Ireland. Through her secret journal, we uncover the truth about her past and the societal and personal challenges she has faced. Barry's beautiful prose and intricate storytelling make this book a compelling exploration of memory, identity, and the power of storytelling.

The Third Policeman is a surreal and darkly humorous novel that delves into themes of identity, reality, and the nature of existence. Written by Irish author Flann O'Brien, the story follows an unnamed protagonist as he navigates a bizarre and absurd world filled with eccentric characters and strange occurrences. Blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, the book challenges the reader to question their own perceptions of the world.

When All Is Said by Anne Griffin is a touching and heartfelt novel that follows an elderly man named Maurice Hannigan as he sits in a bar and raises five toasts to five important people in his life. Through these toasts, Maurice reflects on his past, his regrets, and the choices he made, ultimately revealing the depth of his love and the sacrifices he has made along the way. It is a beautiful exploration of family, friendship, and the power of storytelling.

The Witch Elm by Tana French is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of memory, identity, and privilege. When Toby discovers a skull in the garden of his family's ancestral home, it sets off a chain of events that forces him to confront dark secrets from his past. As the mystery unravels, French skillfully explores the blurred lines between truth and deception, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Lion of Ireland by Morgan Llywelyn is a historical novel that brings to life the legendary Irish king, Brian Boru. Set in 10th century Ireland, the book follows Boru's journey from a young warrior to a unifying leader who challenges the power of the High Kings. Filled with political intrigue, epic battles, and a touch of romance, it offers a captivating portrayal of one of Ireland's most iconic figures.

McCarthy's Bar by Pete McCarthy is a travel memoir that takes readers on a humorous and insightful journey through Ireland. Filled with colorful characters, unique experiences, and plenty of pints, the book offers a delightful exploration of Irish culture and the author's quest to uncover his own roots.

Round Ireland with a Fridge is a hilarious travel memoir by Tony Hawks. In a drunken bet, Hawks decides to hitchhike around Ireland with a fridge. What follows is a series of absurd and heartwarming adventures as he meets eccentric characters and discovers the true spirit of the Irish people. It's a delightful and unconventional journey that will leave you both amused and inspired.

Sea of Memories by Fiona Valpy is a captivating tale that weaves together the past and present. Set in the stunning backdrop of the French island of Ile de Ré, the story follows a woman named Ella as she unravels the secrets of her grandmother's past during World War II. With beautifully descriptive prose and a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and resilience, this novel will take you on an emotional journey through time.

The Beauty of Broken Things by Victoria Connelly is a heartwarming story about finding beauty in unexpected places. When artist Orla returns to her childhood home to care for her ailing grandmother, she discovers a hidden attic full of broken antiques. As she begins to restore these items, she also starts to mend her own broken heart. This novel reminds us that sometimes the most beautiful things are the ones that have been repaired and loved despite their flaws.