For the Feast of Saint Patrick

 

Getting ready to do some "Irish" reading.

 

Painting of "Snakes and the Saint", acrylic on canvas, 2018 by Denise Spicer.

 

 

Let Me Die In Ireland

David W Bercot

A fictionalized story of the life of Patrick which discusses his early life as son of wealthy Roman British citizens, his capture, and life of slavery in Ireland.  When Patrick finally returns home to his family he realizes God is calling him to go back to Ireland to spread the Gospel.  The author follows Patrick through his lengthy preparations in his native land and then on to his long ministry in Ireland

 

 

 St Patrick’s Gargoyle

Katherine Kurtz  2001

From the very first paragraph the author pulls us into a fascinating tale.  Set in Dublin Ireland, we follow Paddy, a gargoyle/avenging archangel and his new friend and helper, the human Francis Templeton.  In his 80’s, Francis, a Knight of Malta, drives a vintage rolls Royce and navigates around the snowy December streets as he assists Paddy and the other gargoyles to rebind a demon in an ancient underground vault.  The book includes wonderful descriptions of Dublin at Christmas time and of pre-season church services in St. Patrick’s Cathedral complete with a session in the Bell Tower as the bell ringers practice.  Some charming, wry humor, a cute little kitty, and some Protestant/Catholic theological quibbling.  Recommended for Armchair Travelers and those who love Christmastime settings.

An Irish Christmas

John B Keane

This 1999 book contains 17 stories set in an Irish country village. (probably mid- 20^th-century).  All are set at or around Christmastime but don’t really have a very strong feel of the season.  With only mildly interesting characters (Canon Coodle, the priest, Mrs. Hanlon, his housekeeper, Matt Coumer, the doctor, Sam Toper, a drunk, Mental Nossery, a poet and his wife the barmaid, Blossom O’Moone) the author gives us some disjointed, disorganized,  “slice of life” stories featuring mostly a bunch of people drinking.  A few mildly amusing scenes including the final story “A Christmas Surprise”.

 

 

 

 

Corned beef, cabbage and a mystery novel.

 

 

 

And now for dessert!

 

A Catered St Patrick’s Day

Isis Crawford

This 2012 caper follows the Simmons sisters, Bernie and Libby and their dad, Sean, as they investigate a bizarre murder.  Much detested swindler Mike Sweeney has been drowned in a keg of green beer.  Lots of suspects give the sleuths plenty to investigate in this somewhat contrived plot.  Includes 3 recipes.