In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, I’ve decided to write about some famous Irish authors. As I’ve mentioned I have a passion for Ireland and I am an author and a reader so this would be where all my passions intersect.  If you’re looking for some awesome reads from the Emerald Isle, these books will do the trick.

Talented Irish Writers

The Picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wilde-This book is about a young man who sells his soul for eternal youth and beauty and is one of Oscar Wilde’s most popular works.

Dracula by Bram Stoker-This book is all about the different contexts and inspirations for the classic horror character Dracula.

Dubliners by James Joyce-This book by Irish author James Joyce is about life in Ireland at the turn of the last century, painting a picture of a nation through the lives of ordinary Dubliners.

Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt-Author Frank McCourt paints a picture of his miserable childhood with humor and compassion.

In The Woods by Tana French-This psychological thriller is about three kids that don’t return from the dark and silent woods. Although one is found, he can’t remember anything of the past few hours. Years later detective Rob Ryan is investigating the disappearance of a girl in the exact same woods.  In keeping his secrets from his shadowy past and using only memories to guide him, can he solve the mysteries of present and future in the deep, dark woods?

Emerald Isle Escape

Room by Emma Donoghue-A mother and son survive the impossible because of resiliance and love.

Milkman by Anna Burns-In a town where being interesting can be dangerous you better be careful.

The Boy In The Striped Pajamas by John Boyne-Bruno is a nine year old boy who is living through the Holocaust.

‘Tis by Frank McCourt-The sequel to Angela’s Ashes, picking up when Frank arrives in the U.S.

Circle of Friends by Maeve Binchey-Two best friends head to Dublin to get an education and find freedom from their sleepy little town.

More Books by Irish Writers

P.S. I Love You by Cecilia Ahern-When her husband dies of a terminal illness, Holly sets out on a journey of holding onto his memory. Eventually she learns to let go and find the courage to find love again.

The Blackwater Lightship by Colin Toibin-A family forced to come together in order to care for a dying son must face their own histories. They must also learn how to deal with each other.

Rachel’s Holiday by Marian Keyes-Rachel Walsh’s family is sending her to rehab. She has an obsession with recreational drugs. She agrees to go because of all the glamour and rock n roll stars. Soon she winds up navigating therapy and group therapy. She also starts missing her ex Luke. What kind of life is this?

More Books

The Woman Who Walked Into Doors by Roddy Doyle-Paula is a working class woman who is trying to get past an abusive marriage and a drinking problem.

The Sea by John Banville-Max Mordan is a middle aged man who has returned to the seaside town where he spent his summers as a child. He is trying to get over the loss of his wife. During this time he also met the Graces. This was also his first experience of love and death. This novel is about Max coming to terms with his past and moving on to his future.

A Star Called Henry by Roddy Doyle-Henry Smart is born at the turn of the century in Ireland and this novel tells the story of his life.

All We Shall Know by Donal Ryan-Melody Shee is a 33 year old teacher who is impregnated by her 17 year old student. Her husband isn’t taking the news well. She hasn’t told her father. It will crush him. She meets a young traveller woman named Mary who knows quite a bit about Melody. In fact, Mary may be able to save her life.

There are many Irish tales on this list for all different readers. Love stories, thrillers, and autobiographies. You are bound to find a taste of Ireland to suit your fancy as we wrap up the month of March. Who are some of your favorite Irish authors? Do you have a favorite book about or set in Ireland? I would love to know in the comments.