When writer David McFadden sets out on a tour of Ireland, he is determined to so do in a relatively innocent state. Using as a guide only In Search of Ireland , a 1930 title by travel writer H. V. Morton, he plans to follow the same route, to try to determine how things have changed and how they have remained the same. This he proceeds to do - at least at first. But soon he is wandering more and more erratically around the country, poking into any corner and musing over any sight that takes his fancy - from a cozy guest house in Kilcullen to the legendary Hill of Tara, from the south-coast pub run by twin sisters to the windswept reaches of the Ballaghbeama Gap. And increasingly he is drawn to the prehistoric monuments of ancient Ireland. As he goes, he records his very personal impressions in a clear-eyed and wryly humorous way. Wisely, McFadden also lets the many characters he meets speak for themselves; he loves a good chat and he gives ample space to the various loquacious barmen, shopkeepers, hoteliers, and passersby along the way. And of all the eccentric and appealing characters that he encounters, one of the most intriguing is his travelling companion, the mysterious Spanish chambermaid and poet Lourdes Brasil. Amusing, quirky, compassionate but unsentimental, An Innocent in Ireland is a treat for any armchair traveller.
Great for arm chair travelers as well as the real thing!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
If you are the type of traveler interested in exploring off the well traveled trail this book is a must! If you have ever experienced an unexplainable affinity for the island of Ireland and its people you'll wonder why you haven't read this one yet. Get it, read it, you won't be disappointed!
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.