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 Irish author Sebastian Barry Internationally acclaimed Irish author Sebastian Barry will visit Tipperary Libraries on the weekend of the 18th & 19th of November.
Sebastian is the focus author of this year’s Tipperary Reads Festival. He is also the author of the popular titles ‘The Secret Scripture,’ the recently Man Booker nominated ‘On Canaan’s Side,’ and ‘A Long Long Way.’ (Note: Copies of these books can be purchased from Bookworm here in Thurles.)
Over the past few months the people of Tipperary have been reading his novel making it the most borrowed title in Tipperary Libraries during July and August. Described as “unsurpassed in World War One fiction,” this novel deals with the realities of war for the young Irish soldier set against the turbulent background of 1916 Ireland.
This is the fourth year of the Festival which has previously played host to writers John Banville, Joseph O’Connor and Tipperary native Frank Delaney. The idea behind the Festival is to celebrate the joy of reading and to foster a sense of community by bringing people together through the shared experience of reading.
Lorraine Treacy, “Tipperary Reads Festival” organiser, says that “We are really thrilled to have the opportunity to bring an author of such high standing to Tipperary. Now readers and writers will have the opportunity to meet Sebastian, and to discuss his work with him.”
Sebastian will be in Clonmel Library on Friday 18th November at 7.30pm. On Saturday 19th he will be in Nenagh Library at 3.00pm and that evening he will be in Thurles Library, The Source at 7.00pm.
All are welcome to attend and here also is a once in a lifetime chance to give that ‘special someone,’ a unique Christmas gift.
Suggestion:- Purchase a copy of one of Sebastian Barry’s excellent publications and have it personally autographed by the author for that special friend to read and forever cherish.
Author George Mordaunt will speak on Family Business, Recession & Recovery, at the Horse & Jockey Hotel on Tuesday next, the 8th November
at 6.30pm.
George Mordaunt’s family car business in Clonmel was one of the huge success stories during the boom years, but alas came crashing down in spectacular fashion, when this current recession hit.
George has now put his story in print, in a remarkable book called “Shepherd’s Pie: Family Business, Recession & Recovery – The Real Story”
This book is a brutally honest and brave account of what happened and of how he has managed to survive and start all over again. Ireland is insolvent because of mismanagement, corruption and greed. We have been bombarded with and infuriated by reports of self-serving bankers, developers and government ministers.
To date, the general public has not had an account of the devastating effect of this crisis on Irish-owned business, as it tries to pick up the pieces. Irish businesses are trying to cope with insolvency, arrears, liquidation – the rate of suicide among the self-employed in Ireland has trebled in the last 3 years. George Mordaunt believes that many Irish businesses are now dysfunctional, not because of the recession, but because of the reaction of business owners to this recession – and specifically their reaction to their banks.
With raw honesty he outlines the effect this reaction has had on himself, his young family, his marriage and his business. He shares his most private moments of despair and fear, while demonstrating how business owners can salvage their businesses and that we now have a core responsibility to get back to basics in all levels of Irish life.
His talk will be of interest to many struggling to survive in business today and this talk therefore is an event not to be missed on Tuesday next.
The talk is presented by Network North Tipperary and anyone interested in attending can email president@networknorthtipp.ie for further details.
George Mordaunt’s book “Shepherd’s Pie: Family Business, Recession & Recovery – The Real Story” is a ‘Must Read.’
 Jonathan Gleeson as Bill Snibson & Michelle O'Connell as Sally Smith in the 2011 production of 'Me and My Girl.' staged by Thurles Musical Society Thurles Musical Society will launch it’s history book ‘Stage to Page – A History of Thurles Musical Society,‘ on Sunday October 30th in the Anner Hotel, as part of this great Societies 60th anniversary celebrations.
An open invitation is being extended to everyone to attend this Gala Event, which will feature entertainment from current Society members, to reflect the type of shows undertaken down through six decades, with plenty of chat, music, song and dance to follow later.
The book – a 330 page full colour publication – has been written and edited by the Society’s PRO, Noel Dundon and contains one thousand photos taken throughout the six decades of musical theatre in this the Cathedral Town.
This excellent publication charts the Society’s growth from its inception, through the formative years, to the modern day where an energetic, enthusiastic and musical loving company continue to carry the flame first lit by our late founding father, Rev Canon William Noonan.
The book delves into the reasons behind the establishment of the Society; those responsible for it’s formation; and all those who have continued to pursue musical theatre excellence, during the decades since.
There are sections on the impact of the Association of Irish Musical Society on TMS and vice versa. There are comprehensive pen pictures on all our Honorary Life members – living and dead, and there are also chapters on the people behind the major and most popular musicals, staged down through the decades.
Each show, undertaken by the Society, is detailed in this wonderful publication, with everyone who ever set foot on stage, helped out backstage, or worked in any way for the Society, included, in so far as is possible. The ‘Minute Books,’ have been trawled through; the newspaper archives raided; and many closets and attics in Thurles emptied in a bid to dig up photographs. The result is a resounding success with many photographs contained in the book, never seen before in any public forum.
The evening kicks off at 8:00pm with a cheese and wine reception to be followed by the Society’s chorus taking on a number of popular arias, book launch by the President of the Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) Mary Heaney, and great fun thereafter.
There is no entry fee for this Bank Holiday Sunday evening of rich entertainment and an open invitation is being extended to all to come along.
The book, which is truly value for money – the perfect coffee table or waiting room read – the perfect Christmas present for friends abroad, will be available in local shops and on the night, retailing at just €20 (Hardback) and €15 (Paperback).
Happy sixtieth birthday Thurles Musical Society and thank you for all those years of wonderful entertainment and music.
Photo courtesy of G.Willoughby.
 Some of those who attended the recent Wetland Writers inaugural meeting in Cabragh Wetlands Centre Thurles. The inaugural meeting of the Wetland Writers group, which took place on September 8th last, report that their first meeting was a resounding success.
The aim of this group is to share and critique their own hitherto unpublished work, while organising and hosting writing workshops and eventually producing a joint anthology of the groups work.
Note: Their next meeting will be on Thursday 6th October in the Cabragh Wetlands Centre at 8.00pm sharp.
Note, there are still a few spare vacant chairs available and so all writers, poets and other aspiring scribes are most welcome to attend. Full assistance and advice will also be given to writers who wish to publish a chapbook.
If you need further information or encouragement, why not contact Joan Pollard Carew, Literary Co-ordinator Phone: 086 8718819 or Una Crowe, Group Co-ordinator Phone: 087 7930319.
 A Long Long Way - Sebastian Barry Tipperary Libraries is pleased to announce Sebastian Barry as the author for this year’s Tipperary Reads Festival.
This year’s Tipperary Reads Festival will be launched by well-known author and Irish broadcaster Myles Dungan in Thurles Library, The Source, Cathedral Street, on Tuesday 12th July next at 6.30pm.
Tipperary Reads Festival has run very successfully for four years now and focuses partly on one work by an author each year. In the past the focus novels have been; ‘Tipperary,’ by Frank Delaney, ‘The Sea,’ by John Banville and ‘Star of the Sea,’ by Joseph O’Connor.
This year Tipperary Library are encouraging everyone in the county to read ‘A Long Long Way,’ Sebastian Barry’s remarkable novel which is the focus novel of this year’s festival. Sebastian’s novel ‘A Long Long Way,’ was shortlisted for the 2005 Man Booker Prize, and was selected for Dublin’s 2007 ‘One City One Book‘ event.
His novel tells the story of Willie Dunne, a young recruit to the Royal Dublin Fusiliers during the First World War and brings to life the divided loyalties that many Irish soldiers felt at that time, following the Easter Rising in 1916. This book, which is a compelling read, demonstrates that right from the beginning that Willie Dunne, is doomed, he was born in the wrong place, his name already belonged with all the other nameless millions.
This festival is open to everyone, including book clubs and individual readers and is a marvelous opportunity to come together to discuss a truly unforgettable read.
As part of this Festival, Tom Burke of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers Association will be delivering a lecture in Thurles Library on Saturday the 10th September at 3.00 pm.
To get involved all you have to do is pick up a copy of ‘A Long Long Way,’ in your local library.
Note: Sebastian Barry will be visiting Tipperary Libraries on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th of November for a number of discussion sessions on the novel.
Click HERE to contact your local library for further details.
For tourists visiting North Tipperary and the Thurles area, who enjoy walking, geology, climbing, history, photography, legendary tales, or simply recording images to “flash upon that inward eye,” then there is no place more enjoyable, than a trip to The Devils Bit.
In the Irish language, Bearnán Éile, (Translated into English – Little Gapped Hill of Éile.) this area offers the visitor, on a clear day, an expansive and breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, taking in not just Tipperary county itself, but also areas of counties Clare, Galway, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Offaly, and Waterford.
Local legend states the mountain got its name when the hungry Devil, flying overhead, took a bite out of the rock. Indeed the large gap in the mountain between the two remaining outcrops of rock, bring the viewer to the same imaginary conclusion. Legend also informs us that the devil broke his teeth while chewing and his mouthful of hard rock was spat out, falling to earth, where it now forms the base to the well known tourist attraction, known as the Rock of Cashel.
(Special thanks goes to Thurles videographer Mr Brian Corbett for sharing the following film clip.)
In 1789, the Book of Dimma was supposedly discovered in a small cave on the mountain. The little known Book of Dimma, written possibly late in the 8th century at nearby St. Cronan‘s Monastery, Roscrea, was preserved by Thady O’Carroll, Prince of Ely, and later during possibly the mid-twelfth century was encased in a rich gilt case. The book is a copy of the four Gospels written in Old Latin and is representative of Irish ‘Pocket Gospel’ manuscripts. The book which had a blessing to the sick and dying added in the 10th or 11th century, can be viewed in Trinity College, Dublin, together with many other articles of Ireland’s rich historical treasures found in Tipperary, now bringing prosperity to our capital city’s economy at Tipperary and rural Ireland’s expense.
This mountain holds indeed a rich history. It was the scene of a mass Anti-Tithe meeting on July 25th 1832, which, according to press reports, was attended by over 50,000 people. Samuel Lover in “Legends and Stories of Ireland,” (1831-1834), refers to a mock burial of the tithes by local peasantry.
The limestone round tower built in the 1650′s, on the approach to the summit of this 478m (1570 feet) mountain, is known locally as “Carden’s Folly,’ and built by John Carden, a follower of Oliver Cromwell and involved in the battle of Marston Moor July 2nd, 1644, when the forces of Parliament defeated their enemies, largely because of the military brilliance of Cromwell. After Cromwell’s conquest of Ireland in 1649 John was rewarded with an estate at Templemore, Tipperary, where he built a manor house and eventually this round tower. He and subsequent family members would go on to become the principal landlords in this area, with the most notable of the Carden family undoubtedly John Rutter Carden III (1811-1866), better known as ‘Woodcock Carden’, so nicknamed by his tenants, because of his ability to survived numerous assassination attempts by tenants. It was said he was as difficult to shoot as the Irish wading bird known as the ‘Woodcock,’ or it’s closest relative the ‘Snipe,’ when in flight. (We will be discussing certain little known and very personal aspects of Mr John Rutter Carden’s life in the not too distant future.)
A large 45 ft cross was erected on the Rock and officially blessed by Upperchurch native, and Archbishop of Cashel and Emly’s, the Most Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Kinane, on Sunday, August 22nd 1954, in celebration of the ‘Marian Year,’ pronounced by Pope Pius XII, the first in Church history. The base of this cross is 5 feet squared and 10 feet deep. Construction was carried out by Duggan Bros. building contractors at Templemore at a cost then of approximately €2,000. The cross was previously illuminated at night and in 1988, to compliment its existence, a statue of the Virgin Mary was erected on the eastern side of the Rock.
Geologists should note that in this area we find the earliest record of fossil flora containing Cooksonia type Sporangia, latter an extinct grouping of primitive leafless land plants. The earliest Cooksonia dates from the middle of the Silurian geologic period and system. This group continues to be an important component of flora until the Early Devonian period, a total time span of 428 to 398 million years ago.
When visiting this attraction, tourists are asked to respect the rights of those farming this fertile area.
 Sharing memories - Michael Byrne and Mícheál O’Muircheartaigh. Photo: J. O'Loughlin. The ballroom of the Anner Hotel here in Thurles was bursting at the seams last night, as local friends, old comrades and sporting admirers gathered, to celebrate with Michael “Rattler ” Byrne, the launch of the book, not surprisingly entitled, ‘Rattler.’
Local social and community organiser, poet and historian Tom Noone was on hand, and as usual, very capably undertook the role of ‘Master of Ceremonies.’
Amongst the speakers were; GAA patron His Grace Archbishop Dr. Dermot Clifford, Michael Dundon, co-author of ‘Rattler,’ former Tipp hurling great Jimmy Doyle, Chairman of Tipp County Board Barry O’Brien, Chairman of Thurles Sarsfields Michael Maher, Cristy Ring Jnr and Paul Byrnes, latter, who spoke on behalf of the Byrnes family.
Also present were; Mayor of North Tipperary John Kennedy, latter fresh from his Obama encounter and plenty of hurling friends from all over the country including Tony Reddin, Paddy Buggy, Eddie Keher, just to mention a few. Former GAA President Sean Kelly MEP and Deputy Noel Coonan TD, were also in attendance.
Mícheál O’ Muircheartaigh launched the book in his own inimitable style, but not before having first interviewed the “Rattler.” on stage much to the amusement of all in attendance. Rattler Byrne sang the song, ‘By the bright silvery light of the moon,’ and also demonstrated his prowess as a very fine mouth organ player.
Other musical entertainment for the evening was provided by the Thurles Gospel Singers, and a very fine Trad group of musicians made up of family members and friends.
All in all, surely a night to remember and a book now launched, which makes for essential reading.
 "The Rattler," Book is available from bookstores A new book celebrating the life story of former Tipperary hurling legend, Mickey ‘The Rattler ‘ Byrne, will be launched here in Thurles tonight.
Mickey Byrne won five All Ireland Senior Hurling Medals, seven National League Medals and a record 14 Tipperary Senior Hurling Championship medals with Thurles Sarsfields.
Pic. shows: B/R – L-R:- L. Carroll, S. Cantwell, D. Kinane, P. Stakelum.
F/R – L-R:- S. Quinlan, M. ‘Rattler ‘ Byrne, P. Lyons.
Mickey Byrne was born in Thurles, County Tipperary, in 1923 and was educated locally, attending Thurles CBS where his hurling skills were first developed.
Mickey first tasted success as a hurler when he won a Dean Ryan Cup medal, in 1939. Later, his hurling skill, his wit and athletic achievements would elevate him to be one of the great legendary figures of the world of Gaeldom.
The book entitled “The Rattler,” which has been penned by retired Tipperary Star former editor Mr Michael Dundon, will be launched by former RTE games commentator and Co Kerry native Mícheál O’ Muircheartaigh.
The launch takes places in the Anner Hotel, Thurles tonight at 8pm, at which ‘The Rattler ‘ will be present as guest of honour.
 Lucinda's List, by Thurles author Olive Collins Writer and Artist Eileen Keane will launch Olive Collins’ debut book “Lucinda’s List,” on Saturday May 14th 2011 at 7.00 pm. The launch will take place in the function room at Hickeys licenced premises, here in Cathedral St, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.
Signed copies of the book will be available to purchase on the night and all are welcome to join Book Republic and Olive to celebrate this launch.
The Book’s Characters
What began as a harmless game for Lucinda Tidy ended with unexpected consequences, testing loyalties of a friendship she took for granted. Lucinda can be generous and thoughtful yet equally corrupt. Her peculiar habit of keeping lists is a source of amusement to her friends, but the origins of her habit are deeper than routine. Behind her almost perfect facade lurks a story she has tried to deny.
Alice hasn’t a practical bone in her body. She loves life and never tires of experimenting with fashion or adventures with her current young toy-boy, dubbed ‘The Sickly Prince,’ because of his exotic beauty. Now that Fiona has finally relinquished all hope of resurrecting her marriage, she focuses on attempting to update her father’s ancient pub, which he has been slow to alter, while also attempting to recapture lost years.
Rose is the sensible one of the group. Unlike her friends, she offers practical advice rather then their preferred drama. Despite her mother’s sudden interest in Rose’s man-less and child-less state, Rose is content with her independence yet she finds something alluring beneath the academic surface of her best male friend.
Together their lives entwine, through a humorous and moving maze of friendship and loss.
“Lucinda’s List ” is a cracking good read, and an ideal companion, dare I say pleasant distraction, for those of you planning a few hours, like poet Thomas Gray, ‘Far from the madding crowd’s ignoble strife,‘ this Summer.
The Author
Olive Collins was born and raised in Thurles, Co Tipperary where her father was a serving member of An Garda Síochána for almost thirty years. Olive was educated at the Presentation Convent, Thurles and St Joseph’s College in Borrisoleigh, in Co Tipperary. Members of her family were writers and poets, namely Sr Mary Xaverius O’ Donoghue who penned many books. Olive joined the Clane Writers Group, where she got tremendous support and her short stories have been aired on radio. “Lucinda’s List” is her debut novel. She now resides in Naas, Co Kildare.
To Purchase the Book
“Lucinda’s List,” is available to buy from the 14th of May 2011, on the Book Republic website. It will be in paperback format and priced at €12.99.
 Original Sins A new and exciting publication entitled ‘Original Sins,’ an anthology of short stories by some 22 Irish authors, has just hit our book shelves. This anthology, which includes contributions from Tipperary author’s, Majella O’Gorman,(Thurles), Stella Lannigan, (Gortnahoe), Mary Healy, (Freshford), Maura Barrett, (Killenaule), Martha Woodcock, (Cuffesgrange) and Jane de Montmorency, latter a relative of US President Barak Obama, was recently launched, to high acclaim, in St.Kierans College, Kilkenny.
The writers who feature in this anthology are dreamers who turned their dreams into reality.
Kahlil Gibran writes of the tragedy of leaving a page empty: “Pure was I created and pure will I remain forever…And the sheet of snow white paper did remain pure and chaste forever – pure and chaste – and empty.”
The dream of writing is often so precious, so dearly held, that it is avoided out a fear of failure. All writers fail. No writer avoids disillusion. But after the essential period of consternation, sometimes despair, the piece pearls and the truth of it begins to shine, through the various drafts. The initial inspiration is what fires us all to put pen to paper. The perspiration required to finish a piece is what causes a lot of the initial willing to abandon the dream. A lived dream is a muddied thing, it is tired old and dirty by times, but in becoming more familiar to us, it allows us to know ourselves all the better and to have the easier breathing of one who has attempted, rather than one who has not tried.
Joint editors Suzanne Power and John MacKenna work with the contributors to ‘Original Sins,’ at NUI Kilkenny Campus.
“We have worked with them for four years now and the individuals featured in this collection have stayed the course literally since the very beginning. Our job is to persuade them of what is already in themselves, to foster it to the point where they no longer need convincing and to leave them alone with their empty pages and time. The writers featured here have learned this and are comfortable with the knowledge. They have a full awareness that pages, when a writer is living their dream, fill with word plays known only to them and stories only they can tell.” state Suzanne and John. ”
This well written gem is a must for the ‘bedside locker.’ It will allow each relaxed reader to digest one short story from one author each night, with it’s written content guaranteed to remain the subject of thought, in that time between lights out and dreams beginning.
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