There is a great variety of books to help explain the holiday and the life of St. Patrick. In addition to educational books about the holiday, there are various fiction titles and children’s books related to the holiday. This St. Patrick’s Day, we’re recommending five books that every reader will enjoy.
1. The Life of St. Patrick and His Place in History by J. B. Bury
The Life of St. Patrick and His Place in History is a classic biography about the life and legend of St. Patrick. The book explains the life of St. Patrick and his journey of being captured by Irish raiders and converting to Christianity, which eventually led to his later missions as the Patron Saint of Ireland.
2. The Confession of St. Patrick by John Skinner
The Confession of St. Patrick is the autobiography of St. Patrick, which was re-adapted by author John Skinner. The autobiography is a compilation of St. Patrick’s life, beliefs, and struggles. The Confession of St. Patrick was originally written in the fifth century, and the new adaptation of the book includes additional information about St. Patrick’s life as well as other letters written by him.
3. Tales from Old Ireland by Malachy Doyle
Written by Malachy Doyle, who was born and raised in Belfast, Tales of Old Ireland consists of seven tales from Ireland. The inspiration for the short stories are taken from traditional Irish storytelling, re-imagined and recollected in this piece by Doyle.
4. The St. Patrick’s Day Murder by Lee Harris
This novel by Lee Harris is a part of a series of murder mystery books that are connected to different holidays. It follows the story of ex-nun Chris Bennett who is the main character throughout the series. In this book, taking place on St. Patrick’s Day, Chris Bennett and her boyfriend try to solve the murder of an off-duty police officer in New York. The protagonist goes on a pilgrimage through New York to discover the root of the murder.
5. Tim O’Toole and the Wee Folk by Gerald McDermott
Tim O’Toole and the Wee Folk is a very popular piece of children’s literature that tells the story of leprechauns who give Tim O’Toole great wealth. The story contains multiple illustrations that helps bring the fair folk to life.
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