Saint Patrick’s Day Reads

When I think of Saint Patrick’s Day, Ireland and snakes come to mind – what about you? Maybe it’s Guinness and leprechauns for you! Saint Patrick’s Day has become commercialized and there’s always a push for green beer and green rivers and green…well…anything. But what is the true story behind the hype? Did Saint Patrick really rid Ireland of snakes? It can be hard to distinguish truth from our long-held myths, but these two books would be a great place to start if you’re looking to learn more:

Saint Patrick Retold by Roy Flechner – this biography of the Saint looks not only at his accomplishments, but the controversies surrounding his legacy. Patrick remade himself and his reputation from a troubled youth to the successful missionary. Flechner focuses on this personal renovation against the historical events happening around him.

The World of Saint Patrick by Philip Freeman – if you’re looking for a myth busting read, this is it. The author takes a close look at what we hail as facts about Patrick’s life like the snakes and the clovers. Freeman debunks so many of these myths and shows the fascinating truth of how Patrick came to be in Ireland in the first place!

If you’re just looking to get in the mood for the holiday, then a lighter read may be up your alley. Honestly, and I cannot say this strongly enough, the best options for novels about Irish life would be absolutely anything written by Maeve Binchy! Binchy began writing as a journalist in the late 1960s. In the end, she would write 16 novels including Quentins that I read last week to help me get in the mood for the holiday myself – that review will post later this week! I recently learned Binchy’s words were also compiled into a sort of memoir in Maeve’s Times documenting changes in her own life as well as in the country she loved.

And for your littlest reader, there are some adorable books out to help them get in the mood, too!

How to Catch a Leprechaun by Adam Wallace and Andy Elkerton – well….how DO you catch a leprechaun?? This hilarious picture book uses STEAM concepts and with easy to read rhymes to lay out just the plan for your little one!

Fiona’s Luck by Teresa Bateman and Kelly Murphy – this is a great read for your slightly older readers! It focuses on the myth of the leprechauns and their ability to both take and give luck to the Irish. With beautiful illustrations, this book weaves a tail of a strong female lead – if you like Moana, you will like this book!

I Spy St Patrick’s Day by Casrona Dialna – this is such a cute picture seek book! With simple words for young readers, this book guarantees hours of fun with holiday themed images!

I hope you have all the fun in the world celebrating this holiday tomorrow! If you are celebrating with a pint of Guinness or any other alcoholic beverage, I urge you to stay safe and use a sober ride. If you find yourself without a designated driver to get you home, please use a ride share service to get there safely!

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