The Oxford Book of Irish Short Stories (Oxford Books of Prose)

Book Overview

What began simply in Ireland as entertainment and communication through the spoken word soon grew into an extraordinary literary form unmatched in any other country. The Oxford Book of Irish Short Stories triumphantly demonstrates the development of the short story in Ireland--from the early folk tales of the oral tradition (here translated from the Irish) to the writing of Oliver Goldsmith, Oscar Wilde, and James Joyce. William Trevor, himself a distinguished short story writer, brings a special sensibility and awareness to his role as editor as he presents stories by Maria Edgeworth, Elizabeth Bowen, Liam O'Flaherty and such modern rising stars as Edna O'Brian, Desmond Hogan, and Joyce Cary. This wide-ranging collection of forty-five stories will certainly serve to entertain and enrich our understanding of this unique literary genre.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0192801937
• ISBN13: 9780192801937
• Release Date: March 2002
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 592 Pages
• Weight: 0.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 4.9" x 1.5" x 7.5"

Customer Reviews

The Soul Of Ireland

The Short Stories presented in this fabulous collection range from short folktales from the the old oral tradition to modern stories of the 20th century. It is a marvelous survey of Irish writing with both the dark and lighter side of the Irish character well represented. I've had this book for years and return to it again and again. There are some real gems here.

Irish Stories.

You don't have to be Irish to enjoy this carefully gathered collection of Irish Short Stories. But no one can tell a tale as well as an Irishman or woman. This book is a must-have beside the bed to dip into and savour. Why is it that Irish literature is so pure and lucent? If you are looking for a gift for a special person, give them a copy of this treasure.

A Most Wonderful & Entertaining Bedtime Companion

This collection of short stories by Irish writers is a gem. Having loved William Trevor's stories for years, I bought this book because of his introduction. He draws the reader into these stories with the talent of an ageless storyteller. These stories can only skim the surface of the great body of Irish literature. But it is a wonderful start. Bravo.