15 Irish Novels to Read for St. Patrick's Day

Absurd, brilliant, and profound, "Ulysses" is brought vividly to life in an adaptation by Dermot Bolger at the Abbey Theatre. This theatrical homage to James Joyce’s masterpiece chronicles the mundane yet extraordinary details of Dublin life. Follow Leopold Bloom as he traverses the city—his conversations unravel the fabric of urban life—from pubs to graveyards, battling societal challenges and internal conflicts. Directed by Graham McLaren, this adaptation intertwines live music, puppetry, and engaging clowning, heralding a fresh interpretation of Joyce's genius. Critics laud Bolger’s adaptation for its rich language that embodies the essence of Joyce's work. Read more about Ulysses

In Sally Rooney’s "Normal People," we delve into the intense and tumultuous relationship between Connell Waldron and Marianne Sheridan. Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize, this novel offers an acute exploration of love, class, and the complexities of human connection. From their secret high school romance to their evolving dynamics at Trinity College, Rooney’s prose reveals profound insights into how personal histories intertwine with societal expectations. The book has been celebrated for its psychological depth and spare yet powerful language, making it a gripping read that resonates with many. Read more about Normal People

Oscar Wilde's classic, "The Picture of Dorian Gray," tells the chilling tale of a man who sacrifices his soul for eternal youth and beauty. Dorian's outward perfection contrasts with the horrifying decay reflected in his portrait, offering a poignant commentary on vanity and moral corruption. This new edition, based on the 1891 expanded text, provides readers with insightful notes and a compelling introduction, making it a compelling read for both longtime fans and those new to Wilde's work. The dialogue between aestheticism and ethics resonates powerfully in today’s context. Read more about The Picture of Dorian Gray

"Evening Class" by Maeve Binchy transports readers to a Dublin evening course where strangers come together to learn Italian. Teacher Aidan Dunne finds unexpected warmth and connection with his students, and through their stories, long-buried hopes surface. Nora, the lively teacher from Italy, transforms lives with her vivacious spirit and past secrets, revealing how ordinary moments can redefine our understanding of love and belonging. This novel beautifully captures the magic of human connection and the power of pursuing dreams. Read more about Evening Class

Emma Donoghue’s "The Pull of the Stars" unfolds within the confines of a maternity ward in Dublin during the 1918 flu pandemic. Navigating love, loss, and the strength of sisterhood, nurse Julia Power and her unlikely allies, Dr. Kathleen Lynn and helper Bridie Sweeney, face personal demons amid a public health crisis. The novel illustrates the human spirit's resilience and compassion in the face of despair, making it a touching, timely reminder of shared experiences across generations. Read more about The Pull of the Stars

Colm Tóibín's "Brooklyn" tells the poignant story of Eilis Lacey, a young Irish immigrant navigating love and belonging in post-World War II America. As Eilis adapts to life in Brooklyn, she finds romance and career opportunities, but a tragedy from her homeland threatens her newfound happiness. The novel captures the struggle between loyalties to one's roots and the quest for identity in a foreign land, making it a resonant read that reflects the immigrant experience. Read more about Brooklyn

"Milkman" by Anna Burns, a stunning narrative set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, explores themes of power, rumor, and identity through the perspective of an unnamed female protagonist. This captivating tale showcases how whispers and perceptions can drastically alter one’s reality, particularly in a divided society. Winning the Man Booker Prize, it is sharply relevant in today’s world, offering a unique lens on female agency and resilience in turbulent times. Read more about Milkman

In "The Gathering," Anne Enright masterfully portrays the complexities of family dynamics within the Hegarty clan as they reunite for a wake. Through Veronica's recollections and intertwined secrets, the novel explores themes of love, betrayal, and the impact of shared history. Enright’s prose showcases her ability to distill the labyrinth of human emotions with both sensitivity and intelligence, rendering this story an unforgettable examination of familial relationships. Read more about The Gathering

In "Ireland" by Frank Delaney, the captivating narrative unfolds as a storyteller captures the imagination of a young boy, Ronan, recounting the rich tapestry of Irish lore and history. Set against the backdrop of a changing Ireland, this novel encapsulates the essence of storytelling itself. It pays homage to the age-old oral traditions, weaving together the strands of mythical kings, epic tales, and the profound legacy of a nation, inviting readers to reflect on the significance of memory and heritage. Read more about Ireland

Kathleen de Burca’s "My Dream of You" offers an introspective journey as the protagonist reflects upon a historical affair between an Irish servant and an English landlord’s wife in the 1850s. This narrative delves into themes of longing, identity, and the intricate tapestry of love across societal divides. Readers are invited to ponder the complexities of desire and personal reinvention as she navigates her investigation into the past, creating a resonant effect that echoes throughout her own life. Read more about My Dream of You

Claire Keegan's "Small Things Like These" centers around Bill Furlong, a coal merchant who confronts a hidden issue within his small Irish town during the lead-up to Christmas. As he uncovers buried truths within the community, Keegan elegantly crafts a narrative that highlights moral courage and the power of individual choice. Selected as an Oprah’s Book Club Pick in 2024, this enchanting tale underscores the importance of empathy and the profound effects of seemingly small actions. Read more about Small Things Like These

"The Dazzling Truth" narrates a multi-decade saga of the Moone family, exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Trinity College and a small Irish island, Maeve's story intertwines with her family’s struggles through marriage and motherhood while facing unavoidable tragedies. The narrative captures the beauty of familial bonds and the quest for solace amid turmoil, offering a compelling exploration of personal and collective histories. Read more about The Dazzling Truth

Caoilinn Hughes' "The Wild Laughter" offers an incisive portrait of the Black brothers as they navigate a drastically altered Ireland post-Celtic Tiger. This tale of familial bonds explores themes of choice, loyalty, and loss against a backdrop of economic collapse, revealing the stark reality of life and resilience amid chaos. Rich in humor and poignancy, Hughes delivers a fresh perspective on contemporary Irish life, infusing it with wit and a profound emotional depth. Read more about The Wild Laughter

In a unique blend of supernatural and coming-of-age elements, "Follow Me to Ground" by Sue Rainsford invites readers into the life of Ada and her father—healers with a strange gift. As Ada grapples with her identity, the narrative plunges into themes of forbidden desire and betrayal, creating a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love and the complexities of the body. Rainsford’s debut captivates with its eerie storyline and lyrical prose, promising an engaging and distinctive reading experience. Read more about Follow Me to Ground

Ready to pull at your heartstrings, "When All Is Said" by Anne Griffin invites us into the life of 84-year-old Maurice Hannigan as he reflects on five pivotal figures through his life in a single evening. Each toast he raises is rich with memories, joy, and regret, painting an intimate portrait of a man's existence in a small Irish town. Griffin’s debut is a poignant celebration of love, loss, and the intricacies of life, leaving readers enchanted long after the final page. Read more about When All Is Said