Books
from the West of Ireland
Mayo has produced a wealth of writers down through the years, many of which have documented interesting facets of Mayo's history, gripping tales of its rich folklore and culture and guides to its abundant flora and fauna.
You can find the following books on our site.
- Mayo - A Proud County by Pat Walsh
This book gives a glimpse of County Mayo, its past and its present, people, places and enterprise. It is a colourful compilation of magnificent photographs from many corners of the county including Achill's Atlantic Drive, Westport under the Reek (Croagh Patrick), Louisburgh, Mulranny and more. Famous Mayo people in this book include Mary Robinson, Monsignor James Horan, Admiral William Brown and Michael Davitt. - Claremorris in Restrospection by Michael Reidy
This book has a little history and a few memories of Claremorris in times when virtue, character and a sense of responsibility and common pride were as prized as expensive houses, fancy cars and high social status. A valuable resource for people in and around Claremorris. - On
a Wing and a Prayer - The Story of Knock Airport by Terry
Reilly
The definitive book on the building of Knock Airport, with all the inside details, the political intrigue surrounding the project, the opposition and support, and the success it turned out to be. The author Terry Reilly covered the unfolding story as it actually happened and knew all the central characters involved. - Mayo
Comrades of The Great War by P J Clarke & Michael
Feeney
This book covers the period of First World War and has reference to almost every parish in Mayo. It is a monumental piece of historical research that took over seven years to compile.
- Stars
on Still Water by Michael Hensey
The poetry of the late Michael Hensey has a rich lyrical quality inspired by a devoted family life and a love of wildlife and landscape.
- A Lot of
Fact, A Little Fiction by Peter Costello
Peter Costello is a native of Kilkelly and this is his first book of poetry. It is a delightful collection of his thoughts on everyday happenings in Mayo and in other parts of the globe. Some of the poems are about tragedies that happened around the world, others are of a more lighthearted nature.
- Westport
The Tear and The Smile by Joe McNally
A book of nostalgia, laughter and tears, that recalls a time when Westport was young but growing! You will meet the characters, hear their "Cant" and "Rowlin" and feel their zest for life and laughter. It's an era that has passed and may never come again but it has left its memories, its "Tears and Its Smiles".
- Tales
from the West of Ireland by Sean Henry
An enthralling glimpse of Mayo's eventful past with all its sadness, and an evocation of the indomitable spirit of a people.
- Walking
in North Mayo by Treasa Ni Ghearraigh
A local guidebook containing walks of variable length and challenge, taking you through some spectacular cliff scenery, stretching westwards from Belderrig to Benwee Hd. and taking in Porturlin and Portacloy.
- Where
the Sun Sets by Fr Sean Noone
History of North Mayo - 368 pages covering the parishes of Ballycroy, Belmullet, Kilcommon & Kiltane with ground and aerial pictures, detailed references and bibliography.
- Kiltimagh:
Our Life and Times by Betty Solan and Peter Sobolewski
A chronicle of the main events of Kiltimagh's past, from the time of the Celts (around 600 BC) and, where appropriate, placing them in the national context. The authors have deliberately chosen a newspaper format, with short articles, sketches and photographs in preference to a more conventional academic model.
Book Publishers
- Clo
Mhaigh Eo
Publishers of books in Irish for children and young people, the company is based in Claremorris, County Mayo. Many Irish language learners throughout the world make extensive use of books from Clo Mhaigh Eo particularly their beautifully illustrated childrens' picture books.
