Irish History For Dummies Paperback – June 3, 2011

good coverage of early history, rushed throughthe Rising and independecnce. . Dated dealing with the troubles.

High school and college text books should be written in this format. I saw this book when we were in Ireland but didn't want to lug it home in my suitcase so ordered it when we got back. Both my husband and I are reading it and after being in the country and hearing so much of the history this is just what we needed to remind us again how young our country really is and what a resilient people the Irish are. This book allows you to laugh and learn at the same time

Don't waste your money on this book! I have a few of the "...for Dummies" books, and this is not only the worst in the series, but is the worst history book I have ever read. Although the author throws out hundred of 'place names' in the text (e.g. Leinster, etc) there is not a single map in the book to tell you where he is talking about! Many of his such 'place name' are archaic, thus they do NOT appear on a modern map of Ireland and have to be looked up separately using Google! His narrative is very hard to follow, and jumps all over the place. He does not use commonly known terminology. For example, when his talked about King Richard (of England), the author does not identify him as THE Richard the Lionhearted. He could have made it easier to follow by adding a timeline chart listing Irish rulers, and English rulers, BUT HE DID NOT DO THIS. He just makes you try to figure out the who and when. I did finish the book because I started it...but it was a waste of my time!

Found this book a brilliant read. Even though we all know a bit about history this gives all the key points. Really recommend it if you want to brush up on your history. I'll give this book 5 stars.

I read this book before I went to Ireland this spring. It gave a great overview of Irish history and helped me to understand everything from the medieval castles to the wall in Belfast better. A must-read for anyone who wants to quickly learn about Irish history.

After finding out my DNA was from Ireland I ordered this. I could not put it down. Easy to read and explains gaps in my education of Ireland

Not a dry history. The author's sense of humor keeps it interesting, factual, and easy to read. Could use some maps, but no problem. Highly recommend

Just right before a visit. Enough history; not too much. Interesting and not dry.

I got this book as a helpful summary for a project but I only needed to read a few pages to find inaccuracies. I am Irish and don’t claim to have a Phd in history but I know that St Patrick was a Welshman not Irish as the book suggests, people from Northern Ireland are not from Britain (it is Great Britain and Northern Ireland) and the flag of Northern Ireland isn’t the Union Jack.Really disappointing and actually infuriating because it’s books like this that mean people who know nothing are being taught “facts” that insult the Irish they meet and relay them to.

A very helpful book to research the the Irish question and problem Most Problems that are alive to day start in the past of the country's history.

Great book was to be a Yule gift but was in such poor quality it couldn't be used

Loads of information, well laid out, easy read, lots to dip into. Good quality as with all the Dummies info books. Delivery was very good. Happy with purchase, now need to see if there is a Chinese History for Dummies - easy way to get information on your interests.

This was a gift. It was enjoyed by recipient.