Paul F Walsh

For a Man or a Dog Paul F Walsh

If you ever wondered why your Irish friend seems just a little crazy, this collection of short stories may well provide the answer. From the County Tipperary, the writer tells stories of his growing up in and around Carrick-on-Suir that will have you holding your sides, as you laugh your way from one escapade to the next. It's hard to tell what is fact and what is fiction here but it just doesn't matter, the stories are simply great. Certainly, there is some sadness and some melancholy, and he shares great feeling for the drama and challenges of growing up in rural Ireland. But all these emotions are seen through a wonderfully humorous prism of joy and celebration. The time period spans the sixties and seventies, and beyond, capturing a view of a truly fantastic time of transition in Ireland. One that takes us from an old world, now mostly disappeared, to the new. Religion, education, social norms, customs and traditions, all fall prey to the author's relentless sense of humor. Respect is given, where appropriate, but always with a certain amount of tongue-in-cheek irreverence. His perspectives are just a little different, showing the erratic development of a home-spun philosophy of life, as he moves from childhood to adulthood. Undoubtedly, there is a love of home in all his writing. Carrick-on-Suir is front and center to many of these tales. If you are connected to Carrick in any way, this is a must-read. If you are planning to visit Ireland, for any reason, you'll be strongly tempted to add this little town to your touring schedule. If, as we mentioned at the start, you would just like to figure out what makes the Irish tick, these stories may provide some answers. Enjoy!