Exploring Irish Books: A Guide for Learners

Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate learner, or reading with your children, there’s a wealth of resources waiting to be explored. Join us as we uncover the top books for learning Irish and discover the best sources to find them, from local libraries to online platforms.

Embark on your Irish language adventure with these top picks! For children, captivating stories like “An Cat agus an Dragún” by Niamh Sharkey and beginner-friendly texts such as “Gaeilge gan Stró!” by Éamonn Ó Dónaill are perfect introductions. You can find these books in local libraries, bookshops, or online retailers. Intermediate learners can immerse themselves in gripping novels like “Máire Ní Dhomhnaill’s Ruin” or “Cré na Cille” by Máirtín Ó Cadhain, available in various formats at libraries, specialised bookshops, and online platforms.

Let’s explore the world of Irish literature and uncover the perfect reads to enhance your language skills at every level. Plus, we’ll guide you on where to find these treasures, ensuring you have easy access to the best resources.

For Children:

1. Stiúcaí Stiúgtha (The Ravenous Beast) by Niamh Sharkey: A comical tale of Stiúcaí Stiúgtha who is hungry, hungry, hungry! But is he the hungriest animal of all? Perfect for engaging young readers with its colourful illustrations and simple language. Available in local libraries, children’s bookshops, and online retailers such as An Siopa Leabhar.
2. Ná Gabh ar Scoil! by Maire Zepf: A laugh-out-loud story of a little bear who can’t wait to go to school and a Mamaí who can’t bear to let go. This is a beautifully illustrated book, offering a fun and educational read for children of all ages. Look for it in your local library or online bookstores such as An Siopa Leabhar.
3. My First Irish Word Book by Tadhg Mac Dhonnagáin: Introduce basic Irish vocabulary to children through vibrant illustrations with this picture dictionary, making learning interactive and enjoyable. Available in most bookshops and online retailers such as Amazon.

For Beginners:

1. “Gaeilge gan Stró!” by Éamonn Ó Dónaill: This comprehensive textbook covers essential grammar, vocabulary, and conversational phrases for beginners, accompanied by exercises to reinforce learning. You can find it in local libraries, educational bookshops, and online platforms such as Amazon.
2. “Buntús Cainte” by Tomás Ó Domhnalláin: Start your Irish language journey with this classic three-part coursebook series, offering a structured approach from basic phrases to more advanced language skills. Available in libraries, language schools, and online bookstores such as Amazon.
3. Sos Series: Sos consists of beautifully illustrated stories that have been written and translated by teachers. Improve reading comprehension and vocabulary with simplified texts and glossaries in this collection of short stories for beginners. Look for it in bookshops or online retailers such as An Siopa Leabhar.

For Intermediate Learners:

1. Nóinín by Máire Zepf: Winner of KPMG / Children’s Books Ireland Book of the Year Award 2020. Dive into modern-day Ireland with this gripping novel, offering a compelling storyline intertwined with Irish language and culture for intermediate learners. Available in libraries, mainstream bookshops, and online retailers such as An Siopa Leabhar.
2. Dialann Emily Porter: An Jailtacht by Richie Conroy: This hilarious bilingual novel tells the story a of student attending the Ghaeltacht. Look for it in bookshops, libraries, or online such as An Siopa Leabhar. This is the first book in the series, the second book ‘Dialann Emily Porter: Thíos Seal Thuas Seal’ is available here.
3. An Loch by Pól Ó Muirí: Ríte and Buach, living by a serene lough in their ancestral region, find their tranquil life disrupted when Ríte falls ill, leading them on occasional journeys to the city and hospital. Amidst their tale, the lough’s vibrant wildlife unfolds, with predators hunting and small creatures navigating peril. Available in specialised language bookshops and online platforms such as An Siopa Leabhar.

Finding Irish Books:

1. Local Libraries: Check out your nearest library for a wide selection of Irish language books catering to learners of all levels. Librarians can often assist in recommending suitable titles based on your proficiency.
2. Bookshops: Visit specialised bookshops that focus on Irish literature and language learning materials. These stores typically have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance and recommendations tailored to your learning goals.
3. Online Retailers: Explore online platforms such as Amazon, Book Depository, and Eason for a vast array of Irish language books available for purchase. Many websites offer both physical copies and e-books, providing convenience and accessibility to learners worldwide.

Discover Irish Language Shops

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By utilising these resources and exploring the diverse world of Irish literature, you’ll not only enhance your language skills but also immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Irish language. Happy reading and happy learning!