Roots and Wings by Brendan J. Nangle is an Irish memoir, consisting of a unique compilation of childhood memories, Irish inspired tales and delightful poems.
Roots and Wings, includes a collection of childhood memories and is a social history of bygone days. Brendan’s stories help record a way of life that is no more, but one which remains cherished by many.
Today I’m delighted to introduce this lovely Irish book to you.
Plus, good news! I have a copy of Roots and Wings for one lucky reader to win.
Before I share details of how to enter for a chance to win this book, let’s first learn more about the author, Brendan Nangle, and the wonderful stories found in his memoir.
Table of Contents
About Brendan Nangle
Born in Dublin in the 1940’s, Brendan grew up in the city. However, he often visited the counties where his parents were born. Counties Wicklow and Sligo inspire many of the stories in this book.
Brnedan studied chemistry at University College Dulin, and after graduating with a Ph.D. he worked for many years in chemical industries both in Ireland and abroad.
He retired in 2003, and decided it was time to transform his scientific writing skills and explore creative writing as a pastime.
Initially he composed a series of stories for his grandchildren to enjoy. His grandchildren frequently asked him, “what was life like when you were growing up?” Their questions prompted him to start recording their family history and stories.
He joined a local writing group in Dalkey, where he now lives with his wife. He started writing short stories and is working on a historical novel.
The magnificent scenery of his hometown provides much inspiration for Brendan’s writing. With panoramic views of Dublin Bay, Dalkey is home to many Irish writers and hosts an annual Book Festival.
Although part of suburban south county Dublin, the natural landscape of Dalkey and Killiney Hills, with its surrounding seascape, is simply stunning.
Brendan has won much praise for his writing over the years. His stories have appeared in the compilation, Storytellers, New Writing from Ireland. The Irish Times has published some of his reflections on Irish life.
Roots and Wings
Roots and Wings is an entertaining read, while also providing insights into Ireland in the 1940’s and 1950’s.
Here’s how the author describes his book…
"The book includes my childhood recollections of the Ireland of over half a century ago, memories that somehow find their way back through the intensifying mists of time. Many of the stories tell of significant events in my family history in Ireland, embracing places in Dublin, Wicklow and Sligo.
Also included are a few recollections from more recent periods, after I flew the nest. In addition, the book contains a collection of fictional stories, mostly influenced by people, places and events in Ireland. Four of my poems are also included."
The stories shared are heartfelt, sometimes poignant, but above all they offer us an opportunity to better understand life in Ireland during the mid-20th century. The reader is drawn into a loving, warm family experience. Simple stories and loving memories bring the past to life.
From local lore, to family stories passed down through the generations, this compilation is engaging throughout.
The stories and poems between the pages, instill a feeling of deep connection with Ireland, her people and her history.
Stories of Wicklow Town
Brendan’s mother, Eileen Nangle was from Wicklow Town, south of Dublin. Her maiden name was O’Byrne and her family owned the Bridge Hotel there.
Here’s what the author says about his connections to Wicklow:
'My mother was from Wicklow town and I have many fond memories of visits to my grandparents. They owned the Bridge Hotel, an old and historic building by the river. My grandfather's intriguing tales of past events in the hotel stuck in my young memory.”
In his book, Brendan shares stories of the Halpins, previous owners of the hotel. Their son Robert was involved in laying the first trans-Atlantic telegraphic cable from Valentia Island in County Kerry to Newfoundland.
When Brendan’s grandfather passed away he spent a few years living in the hotel. His mother tried to keep the hotel business going.
This hotel still operates today, as the Bridge Tavern (pictured above), although the O’Byrne family are no longer the owners.
This historic hotel inspired many of Brendan’s stories and has left an indelible mark on his childhood memories.
Inspired by the poetic writings of his late mother, Brendan decided to try his hand at composing verse. His book includes four beautifully composed poems.
Lough Arrow and County Sligo
Brendan’s father originally came from a small village called Castlebaldwin in County Sligo. The family home was close to the beautiful Lough Arrow, and Brendan spent many hours there fishing as a child.
His father spent his childhood fishing on this lake, and it held much significance for him throughout his life. One of the poignant stories in this book illustrates the bond his father felt with this place.
Brendan’s father was a young man during the troubled times of Ireland’s struggle for independence and the Civil War that followed. His stories reflect on the historical significance of those times.
The Irish Art of Storytelling
The Irish are renowned story tellers. Our ancestors revered the art of the story, and our history has been handed down through the generations through an oral storytelling tradition.
Here are some beautiful quotations about storytelling by Brendan Nangle:
“If the mind can be joyously transported away from the many pressures of everyday realities to some distant place and time on the wings of the written word, then surely a story has fulfilled its purpose, be it fact or fiction.”
“It’s a way of throwing seeds of thought out into the world, not knowing how they will blossom in other hearts and minds.That’s what storytelling - that ancient Irish tradition and artform, whether written or oral - is all about. It’s a rich heritage and this is my storytelling.”
Where to Buy Roots and Wings
Roots and Wings is available in paperback and Kindle formats from Amazon.
For anyone in Ireland, it can be purchased from Bridge Street Books in Wicklow Town.
The Giveaway
One lucky reader will win copy of Roots and Wings by Brendan J. Nangle.
To enter simply leave a comment on this blog post by noon Eastern Time on Saturday, September 11th, 2021.
Any comment will do. What you write does not affect your chance of winning, but if you need inspiration why not tell us if you have any treasured childhood memories from Ireland or a place anywhere in the world, you hold dear to your heart.
A winning comment will be chosen randomly. Remember to leave your e-mail so that I can contact you should you win. Your e-mail won’t be published, just used to contact our lucky contestant for mailing of the prize.
The winner will be announced on Saturday, September 11th, 2021, at the bottom of this blog post.
You may check out Irish American Mom’s complete terms and conditions for sweepstakes’ entries here.
Thank you to all who support this giveaway and share it with family and friends.
Update - Winner Chosen
Our winner has been randomly chosen using the Pick Giveaway Winner Plug-in for WordPress.
And the lucky reader is ….
Marilyn
I’ll send an email to arrange mailing of her prize. A big thank you to everyone for supporting this giveaway by leaving comments. I thoroughly enjoyed reading each and every comment.
Thank you all for supporting our Irish American community.
Stay tuned for more stories and giveaways over the coming weeks and months.
If you're interested in other books set in Ireland, here are a few more recommendations to check out...
Intrigue in a Quaint Irish Town
Thanks for following my recipes and ramblings.
Slán agus beannacht,
(Goodbye and blessings)
Mairéad -Irish American Mom
Pronunciation - slawn ah-gus ban-ock-th
Mairéad - rhymes with parade
Disclosure: I recieved a free copy of this book for review purposes. This post reflects my honest and unbiased thoughts about this work.
Here are some more recipes and ramblings you might enjoy...
Ron
Thanks for introducing us to another new Irish book. This looks like an interesting read.
Irish American Mom
Hi Ron - It's always lovely to introduce new Irish books here in our Irish American corner of the internet. Thanks so much for stopping by to support this giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
Pamela
The one place I have always wanted to travel to is Ireland. That is where I believe my Mom's side is from. I am always excited when your email comes. I have some of the recipes saved so I can try them. Thank you for the glimpse of the beautiful country and the culture.
Irish American Mom
Hi Pamela - I'm so glad you enjoy my email updates and celebrate your Irish heritage with us in this little corner of the internet. I hope your wish comes true and you will get to travel to Ireland someday.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Sean
I love all your giveaways. Thanks for hosting a new book giveaway for Labor Day weekend. This looks like a very interesting book. I love all books that help me feel connected to Ireland.
Irish American Mom
Hi Sean - It's great to hear you have such a deep interest in books with an Irish theme or setting to help you connect with Ireland. I always love to introduce new books that help us learn about Irish culture and heritage.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Galina
Thank you for such a thorough review. My love to Ireland was born when I first read Hobbit: There and Back. Somehow, I was sure that Hobbitshire was in Ireland. That love propelled me to start reading this book in English, and translate every word with a dictionary. My dream to live in Ireland may always be just a dream, but it is a good, warm, and cheerful one.
Irish American Mom
Hi Gallina - Lovely to hear you feel such a deep connection with Ireland, inspired by the Hobbit. I have read that the landscape of the Burren in County Clare in Ireland inspired Tolkien when he was writing the Hobbit. Keep dreaming of Ireland, and maybe someday that dream will come true.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Ray Baxter
My mother's side of the family has roots in Lutrellville. She has traced the family tree back to Sir George who built the castle there! She took a tour of Ireland several years before she passed. I love the Irish culture & would love to go there first hand. Being 71 & pretty stove up I don't really.look for that to happen.
Irish American Mom
Hi Ray - It's lovely to hear you feel such a deep connection to Irish culture and heritage. Perhaps you may not make it there in person, but hopefully my recipes and ramblings can bring a little bit of Ireland to you. Many thanks for being such a loyal reader and for supporting our giveaways.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Nancy Sujeta
Love Ireland, hoping to return soon.
Irish American Mom
Hi Nancy - That's lovely to hear - I hope it won't be long before you make it back to Ireland.
Take care,
Mairéad
Thomas Cook
The best Irish thing I’ve seen since visiting O’Conners in Dillon is the Irish movie Black 47.
Irish American Mom
Hi Thomas - I really appreciated that movie too. I was surprised when it was called a Potato Western, and didn't get very good reviews. It was one of the best Irish movies I've ever seen. I loved how the main character was portrayed and how the Irish language was incorporated into the movie.
Thanks for stopping by to support this giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
Maureen Doyle Nelson
The book looks so interesting. Four of my great great grandparents emigrated from the Wicklow and Lord Fitzwilliam Estate at Coolatin. I almost visited in 2014 but two grandsons were born close to the reunion at Coolatin and I didn’t find out in time to make arrangements. Five more grandkids for a total of seven from our two daughters and I still haven’t made it over to Wicklow. Hope the works straightened out for travel and I get over to see the area my ancestors lived. Would love to see this book🍀❤️🍀
Irish American Mom
Hi Maureen - I hope you make it to County Wicklow someday soon, to retrace the footsteps of your ancestors. It's a beautiful mountainous county with splendid scenery and lots of history. I think you would enjoy this book.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Maureen Koebel
I'm looking forward to trying out your grilled potato recipe. I'm going to forward it to family members as well. Roots and Wings sounds like a wonderful book. Would love to win it.
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend.
Irish American Mom
Hi Maureen - I hope you'll enjoy my foil packet grilled potatoes. Thanks so much for sharing it with family, and thanks for stopping by to enter this new giveaway.
Have a lovely holiday tomorrow.
All the best,
Mairéad
Noreen Mullan
I was supposed to visit Ireland for the 1st time but Covid hit, so I'll be there later rather than sooner. I have cousins I've never met and I'm so excited to be meeting them.
Thanks for the giveaway.
Irish American Mom
Hi Noreen - Your trip back to Ireland may have been delayed, but I hope that it will be a wonderful family reunion when you do make it across the Atlantic. Ireland is waiting for you. Thanks so much for stopping by to check out this new book.
All the best,
Mairéad
Karen B O'Brien
This book, Roots and Wings, sounds appealing to not just cooks but also those interested in real life stories of living in Ireland. Clearly a win, win!
I remember being in restaurants in Ireland, an entree may have had a side of potatoes but there was also a huge bowl of boiled potatoes served family style! So many potatoes! I will try your potato recipe for sure. I love to grill. Not only does the food taste so good but there are no pots to wash when you grill!
Irish American Mom
Hi Karen - Lovely to hear you like my new potatoes on the grill recipe. They're easy to make, crispy on the outside and fork tender on the inside. Thanks for stopping by to check out this new book, full of memories of Ireland in days gone by.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Roland Drudge
I have traced my mother’s & grandfather’s back to Belfast where they lived in the last house on mean St. I’ve always been interested in my family’s Scott, Irish history. For me, it was hard to know where your going if you don’t know where you came from. I’ve always despised the English of how they came by what they acquired. Then when I came to understand that Drudge is of English ancestry, I had to rethink my impression of Britts. Knowing that I love everyone in my family, & aren’t conniving & heartless, I then reassessed that the majority of Britts don’t have the same thinking that the greedy power brokers have. My research has made me a better person for it, & a Heinz 57 variety genetically. No wonder I was mixed up! I do love their food almost as well as Irish.
Irish American Mom
Hi Roland - Many of us in Ireland have family connections in England. I know I have ancestors who were Carvers from Cornwall. They moved to Limerick in Ireland and worked on the Castle Oliver Estate there. History and heritage are intertwined, and nothing is simple. We need to look back with understanding and compassion. Lovely to hear that you have been on a journey of discovery as you've researched your family tree. Lovely to hear you enjoy English and Irish food. Both are very similar and share many common dishes because of our shared history. Thanks so much for sharing your story and for stopping by today.
All the best,
Mairéad
Marilyn
Thank you, Mairead for another Irish book giveaway. I love reading Irish history books. God Bless.
Marilyn
Irish American Mom
Hi Marilyn - I was delighted when Brendan contacted me to share his book. It's always lovely to introduce readers to new books that help keep us connected with Ireland.
All the best,
Mairéad
Joan
Hi Mairead, This sounds like a great book. Irish history is so interesting. Thank You for this giveaway.
Joan
Irish American Mom
Hi Joan - This book shares many short stories about Ireland, so it's great for reading on the go. It's easy to pick up and read a story, then when ready, to move onto another tale.
All the best,
Mairéad
Kat
It sounds like a great read to be transported to Ireland through memories, history and good storytelling.
Irish American Mom
Hi Kat - It's a perfect book for anyone interested in Irish life in years gone by. Thanks for supporting our giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
Marion
Mairead, you have come up with another nice giveaway. "Roots and Wings" sounds like a book I will enjoy. This would be a lovely collection to our Irish history books collection we love and enjoy. God Bless you and yours.
Marion
Irish American Mom
Hi Marion - Many blessings to you too. This book sounds like it would be perfect for your Irish reading collection.
Thanks for stopping by.
All the best,
Mairéad
Shireen
I’ve been trying since July of 2020 to get to Kilkenny…maybe July of 2022 will be the charm! Thanks for all your posts- so enjoyable!
Irish American Mom
Hi Shireen - Kilkenny is a beautiful city - full of history. The county is full of lush countryside, ancient dolmens and old monastic ruins. I hope you'll make it there in 2022.
All the best,
Mairéad
Debbie Olsen
My mother is half Irish and it has been my lifelong dream to visit Ireland and Scotland. Someday that dream may come true. In the meantime I can visit vicariously through others stories.
Irish American Mom
Hi Debbie - I hope you make it to Ireland someday, but in the meantime Irish books are a great way to transport yourself to Ireland through stories. Thanks for checking out my recipes and ramblings and for entering our book giveaway this week.
All the best,
Mairéad
Ellen Snowdon
Mairead, Thanks for another of your Irish giveaways. They always sound interesting but this book, in particular, interests me. Irish history is a real favorite, probably because all 4 of my grandparents emigrated in the late 1800s—counties Sligo, Mayo & Waterford. I’ve been to all of them. Solved history for 3 grandparents but need to return for the one from Sligo. Will get there one day!
Irish American Mom
Hi Ellen - It's wonderful that you can trace your ancestors to the counties they left behind when they emigrated to America. Lovely to hear you've been lucky and been able to retrace their footsteps. I hope you make it back to Sligo to finish your family research. Thanks for checking out this new book.
All the best,
Mairéad
Brigid Johnson
My great-great-grandfather was from County Clare. Rumor has it that he was a horse thief and had to leave the country in a hurry. I love Irish history and would love to learn more.!
Irish American Mom
Hi Brigid - I love to hear old family stories - sometimes there's a little truth in these old rumors. Many an Irish person was labeled a thief in years gone by, simply doing what they needed to do to survive. Lovely to hear that you like Irish history. Thanks so much for following my recipes and ramblings and I hope I can share some Irish stories and history with you over the coming weeksa dn months.
All the best,
Mairéad
Cindy
I have always wanted to travel to Ireland & my dream is finally coming to. I hope to discover more about where my ancestors came from.
Irish American Mom
Hi Cindy - Lovely to hear you're planning a trip to Ireland. I hope you can explore the parts of Ireland where your family hails from. Many thanks for stopping by.
All the best,
Mairéad
Mary
A favorite memory of Ireland for me was actually a feeling. It was the feeling or sense that I’d “come home” . I’d never felt that anywhere except when a young girl spending holidays or anytime with my large extended family, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents etc. we were a huge Irish American, Catholic family. Mary
Irish American Mom
Hi Mary - Thanks for sharing your experiences and that feeling of "coming home" when you visited Ireland. I think many Irish Americans can attest to that feeling of homecoming once they land in Ireland. I remember bringing my children home to Ireland to meet their family when they were very young. My son asked me "how many cousins do we have?" He was overwhelmed by the size of our large extended Irish family since in Kentucky it's just the six of us. He experienced that feeling of belonging to something greater than just our small family unit. He had come home.
All the best,
Mairéad
Donna Brennan
In 1970, my paternal grandfather brought me to Ireland for the summer. I have many wonderful memories of that summer. One of them was staying in Offaly at my Aunt Bridget’s house. She had a candy store on the first floor and would make me oatmeal in the morning with fresh cream from the top of the milk bottle which was kept outside on the windowsill!
Irish American Mom
Hi Donna - In large Irish families there was many an argument about who's turn it was to get the "top of the bottle" for their cereal. My mom would roll her eyes to heaven when she discovered we had opened every bottle of milk delivered by the milk man, just to get the top of the bottle. The delicious cream floating at the top of the bottle started the day off on the right note. I'm so glad you have lovely memories of your time with your Aunt Bridget. To stay in a house that was a sweet shop or candy store as well is any little girl's dream. Thanks for sharing your lovely memories.
All the best,
Mairéad
Donna Jones
Ellen, thank you for the recommending the book. I'm the family historian, searching for where in Ireland my ancestors were from. I love books that give me context about life in Ireland and am looking forward to reading this one.
Regards,
Donna
Irish American Mom
Hi Donna - Lovely to hear that you are taking time to record your family's history. It's an important task that many put on the long finger until it is too late. Wishing you success on your journey as you document your family's story. This book is a wonderful social history and provides great insight into Ireland in the 20th century. Many thanks for supporting this little giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
Janice
I love your blog and I would love to have the new book "Roots and Wings"!!
I love the jigsaw puzzles too! Janice
Irish American Mom
Hi Janice - Thanks for being such a loyal reader and for your kind words about my blog. Lovely to hear you are finding enjoyment in recreating the scenes of Ireland featured in our online jigsaw puzzles. Thanks for checking out this new book.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Mary Ann
Good to hear from you! Those potatoes look great!
Thanks for your giveaway!
Irish American Mom
Hi Mary Ann - Thanks so much for following my recipes and ramblings. So glad you like this week's potato recipe, and thank you for entering our giveaway.
Have a lovely holiday weekend.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Adrienne barth
My favorite memory has to be Christmas time in Dublin! I remember the shop front windows at Clery”s was so magical we were in awe and the Christmas lights along Henry street in the evening time along with the hustle and bustle of shoppers nothing in the world compares !
Irish American Mom
Hi Adrienne - Christmas in Ireland, and especially in Dublin, is magical. The lights are so warm and welcoming - they add to the festive atmosphere all over the city. Thank you for sharing your lovely memories with us, and thank you for stopping by to check out this new book.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
John Ongena
The book sounds amazing and would love to read. John
Irish American Mom
Hi John - So glad to be able to introduce lesser known Irish books to a wider audience in America. Thanks so much for stopping by and for entering our giveaway.
Take care,
Mairéad
Ginny (Patrick) Smith
I love his comment, "It’s (storytelling) a way of throwing seeds of thought out into the world, not knowing how they will blossom in other hearts and minds." That gives me a glimpse into his style and author's voice. Sounds like a great book!
Irish American Mom
Hi Ginny - That quotation resonated with me too. It's so true. Thank you for taking the time to enter for our giveaway.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Kim
Thank you for the emails you send. I so enjoy them. I've used your recipes to wow my family and they are amazing! I had an opportunity to visited Ireland a few years ago and immediately felt a calming. I later was doing my geneology and found my family has a lot of Scotlish/Irish ties. It then made sense why I've always been fascinated with anything Celtic. Again thank you for including me in emails.
Irish American Mom
Hi Kim - Thank you for following my recipes and ramblings. I'm so glad you enjoy my emails, and have tried some of my recipes. Lovely to know your family approve of our Irish cooking. It sounds like you felt right at home in Ireland. It amazes me how our DNA can resonate in our souls so that we feel connected to the land of our ancestors. Thanks for all your support.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Colleen Parenteau
This book sounds grand. I enjoy history, I LOVE Ireland, and
who doesn't like to hear a good story. I think storytelling is a true art.
I've had three trips to Ireland and I enjoy something new on each visit.
Also, the people are lovely. Thanks for the opportunity to enter Mairead.
Irish American Mom
Hi Colleen - Storytelling truly is an art - one I hope does not fade with the onset of so much instant electronic entertainment. The formation and recounting of a story takes time and patience. Today, our young folks are limiting their attention spans to 60 seconds or less. However, the art of the story has lasted for thousands of years, so I trust it will survive the current changes. Thanks for joining our giveaway by leaving a comment.
All the best,
Mairéad
Kathleen
Thank you for another book give away. I look forward to reading it.
Irish American Mom
Hi Kathleen - Thanks for stopping by to check out this giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
Deborah Egizii
I would love to read this book! Thanks for introducing us to yet another interesting read.
Irish American Mom
Hi Deborah - Lovely to learn you're interested in Irish books. Thanks for stopping by to support this giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
Brian Casey
Looks like a great read! When I lived in Ireland (2013–2015) there was so much to love: the scenery, the music, the language, the culture, but what I loved most was the people and their stories. Would love to win this book, but if I don't, I'm sure I'll be buying it. Thanks again, Colleen!
Irish American Mom
Hi Brian - Lovely to hear you fell in love with the Irish art of storytelling. There's also an art to Irish small talk, which leads on to a story. This book is a lovely collection of memories, linking us to Ireland's not too distant past. Thanks for being such a loyal follower of my blog.
All the best,
Mairéad
Wanda
Love reading stories about Ireland
Irish American Mom
Hi Wanda - Best of luck in our giveaway.
Take care,
Mairéad
meg
Looks like another wonderful book. I didn't win The Colors of Ireland but did buy the book. I wouldn't have found it if it weren't for your blog, so thank you. These are more great books to read. I have family in Donegal that I recently met. I plan on going back to Ireland some time soon and get so much information from you, so thank you again.
Irish American Mom
Hi Meg - I'm so glad I can introduce books about Ireland to readers of my blog. Lovely to hear you purchased the Old Ireland in Colour Book. I hope it won't be long before you make it back to Ireland and Donegal - a beautiful corner of the world.
All the best,
Mairéad
Janet Gray
I am from Ireland and currently living in Canada. I love receiving your emails. I am a travel agent and find that some of your comments etc are great to pass on to my clients travelling to Ireland for a holiday.
I would love to receive a copy of this new book. My sister-in-law is from Dalkey and would find this very interesting.
Irish American Mom
Hi Janet - I'm delighted to hear you find my posts helpful to share with your clients - thanks for passing them along. It sounds like you would enjoy this book. It's a wonderful collection of short stories and tales about Ireland and other places of interest for the author. Thanks so much for following my recipes and ramblings.
All the best,
Mairéad
Merryellen Towey Schulz
I am excited to read this book. Just reading about made me nostalgic to return to Ireland, which is the land of my heart. My son's name is Brendan. 😉 The book looks like something to share with my grown children who also love Ireland.
Irish American Mom
Hi Merryellen - Lovely to hear that Ireland lives in your heart and that you feel so connected to the land of your ancestors. Brendan is a great Irish name - and Saint Brendan the Navigator was an incredible Irish man, who may even have discovered America in a handmade Irish boat called a currach. It's lovely to hear that your children love Ireland too. Thanks for stopping by to check out this new book.
All the best,
Mairéad