Doolin

“I know of nobody better than Eddie Stack to write this book.” Martin Hayes Doolin is a unique book about the place, its people and culture. Beautifully written, this collection of essays and conversations features local tradition-bearers who were renowned for their music, songs, dance and storytelling. Folk art and traditions run through the book, which has chapters on the music of the Russell Brothers and the Killougherys; reminiscences of the last Doolin native Irish speaker, Paddy Pharaic Mhichil Shannon; the storytelling tradition, with storytellers Stiofáin Uí Ealaoire, Seán Ó’Carún and others. Also featured are Botious MacClancy and Francis McNamara, local gentry who made Doolin famous in the 16th century and the 20th century. Doolin is illustrated with photographs, music, songs, maps and journal excerpts. It is an essential work for anyone wishing to know the background of this magical place Eddie Stack grew up in neighbouring Ennistymon, County Clare. He played music and collected tunes, folklore, songs and stories from Doolin tradition-bearers between 1969 and 1985. He is the author of four collections of short stories, a novel and three novellas. The New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, The Observer and other flagship publications have lauded his work their reviews. Eddie Stack teaches at the Celtic Studies Department, UC Berkeley, California