Ireland

De: Frank Delaney

Narrado por: Frank Delaney

“Dramatic, adventurous, heroic, romantic. . . these historical chronicles, legends, myths, tall tales and fables, featuring warriors, kings, monks, explorers and clever common folk, imaginatively tell the history of Ireland.” — Philadelphia Inquirer

This New York Times bestselling epic is an unforgettable tour de force that marries the intimate, passionate texture of the Irish spirit with a historical scope that is sweeping and resplendent. Storyteller extraordinaire Frank Delaney takes his readers on a journey through the history of Ireland, stopping along the way to evoke the dramatic events and personalities so critical to shaping the Irish experience.

In the winter of 1951, a storyteller, the last practitioner of an honored, centuries-old tradition, arrives at the home of nine-year-old Ronan O'Mara in the Irish countryside. For three wonderful evenings, the old gentleman enthralls his assembled local audience with narratives of foolish kings, fabled saints, and Ireland's enduring accomplishments before moving on. But these nights change young Ronan forever, setting him on a years-long pursuit of the elusive, itinerant storyteller and the glorious tales that are no less than the saga of his tenacious and extraordinary isle.

©2005 Frank Delaney; (P)2005 HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.

Wonderful!

A tale of history nestled inside a family narrative. This tale tells the story of Ireland from its earliest days in prehistory to the struggle to become a nation in its own right once again. The love for country woven through each word is perhaps why, despite generations abroad, those of Irish descent are proud of their heritage.

bring back the story teller

excellent combination of plots and history. I loved the story teller's style of telling a story, made history come alive

Enchanting

I can’t recall ever having enjoyed an audiobook as much as this.
Frank Delaney’s writing and narration were first-rate, and the stories and storytelling were outstanding. I enjoyed every minute.

Cheaper than a plane ticket!

This book is ideal in combination with other resources, like the internet or even a simple Irish history book. I found myself repeatedly inspired to find the google maps and the websites that documented the places that Delaney reveals through story. As a history teacher, I often use story as the gateway to a historical event or time, and I was gratified that Delaney did this for me.

He uses landmarks, both historical and geographical, to help us understand Ireland better. Then, he interweaves the stories of the past with an ongoing story of a single boy and his family. Very effective! "Trinity" is great for rousing politics, "Angela's Ashes" for the personal drama, but I like "Ireland" for the bigger picture.

Itinerant Storytellers

What made the experience of listening to Ireland the most enjoyable?

I love stories and I love the art of telling stories. This book was a series of wonderful stories told by a story master. It also talked about the art of storytelling.

What other book might you compare Ireland to and why?

This wasn't what I expected. It wasn't really about Ireland - it was about a boy and his heritage and the art of storytelling. I thought I would be comparing it to several other books I have read - but it was like none of them. Ex. How Green was my Valley, How the Irish saved the World. It was more like a text on storytelling - by a storyteller. Stories are the best way to learn anything - so it was good.

Have you listened to any of Frank Delaney’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Frank Delaney is also the author. He seems to read most of his own books. I will read more he has written - so I will hear more of him in the future.

If you could take any character from Ireland out to dinner, who would it be and why?

My great great grandmother - who came from Ireland after the potato famines. I would like to hear her story and her view of Ireland and hear the truth about the reasons they left and what they faced when they were there.

Any additional comments?

Good book - Loved the stories. I wonder how many of them were true. I loved his storytelling advice - very good. I love telling stories; I have learned from Frank Delaney and I will put it to good use.