1916

A Novel of the Irish Rebellion (Irish Century, Book 1)

By: Morgan Llywelyn

Narrated by: Mil Nicholson

Length: 18 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

First in the Irish Century historical fiction series, 1916: A Novel of the Irish Rebellion begins the saga of the Halloran family during Ireland's long struggle for independence.

At age 15, Ned Halloran lost both of his parents - and almost his own life - when the Titanic sank. Determined to keep what little he has, he returns to his homeland of Ireland and enrolls at Saint Edna's school in Dublin. Saint Edna's headmaster is the renowned scholar and poet Patrick Pearse - who is soon to gain greater fame as a rebel and patriot. Ned becomes deeply involved with the growing revolution...and the sacrifices it will demand.

Through Ned's eyes, Morgan Llywelyn's 1916 examines the Irish fight for freedom - inspired by poets and schoolteachers, fueled by a desperate desire for independence, and played out in the historic streets of Dublin against the background of World War I. It is a story of the brave men and heroic women who, for a few unforgettable days, managed to hold out against the might of the British Empire.

©1998 Morgan Llywelyn (P)2020 Tantor

A chapter in the terrible story that is Ireland and more so what used to be the English Empire.

Historical fiction. The author did a good job of focusing on the Easter Rebellion as well as previous atrocities.

Compelling

Love historical novels, and this one did not disappoint. It covers the buildup and immediate aftermath of the Easter Rising. The story is compelling and very important to Ireland’s history. The narration is good with the exception of voicing the child, which I found to be dreadful and hugely annoying. Fortunately, the child had few speaking parts. The story has been criticized for its political bent, but the very nature of a rebellion is highly political. I thought it struck a good balance between facts and moralizing. Definitely recommend book.

interesting

Although I enjoyed the author's approach to mixing fiction and fact, a grand opportunity was missed to utilize an Irish narrator. No offense to Mil Nicholson who does a fine job, but I would have strongly preferred an Irish voice given the subject. it would have been a much more immersive experience.

Excellent telling of the 1916 Irish rebellion

I loved learning of the history of an important rebellious time in Ireland! A well written account!

Very much enjoyed

I love historical fiction and have always found the Irish centuries-old struggle for independence to be particularly compelling. I really enjoyed this book, despite its lackluster narration. Some reviewers disliked the rather detailed historical narration but I liked it due to my personal interest in the subject. I actually visited Kilmainham Gaol a few years ago and it was quite an emotional and moving experience.

Great Listen

This is an amazing portrayal of the buildup and execution of a rebellion. It not only is enjoyable, but makes the reader sympathetic to all struggles for national identity.

Took a chance and I loved it

Took a chance on this free book and I am so glad I did. The story is interesting and the narration is perfect. I will likely buy the other books in the series.

Good story

It’s a long book but definitely worth it. It was a really good story. It has dark parts but not gruesome. It’s a heavy tale but told well. I’m glad I read it.

Good book but one problem

The narration was good except for the awful portrayal of the child named Precious. It would have been better to just describe the child’s comments.

Outstanding!

A compelling listen with an excellent narrator. If you dig history you'll dig this!