20 best books on the irish famine – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Buy the book

The Great Irish Famine: A History in Four Lives

by Enda Delaney

Looking for a captivating and insightful book about the devastating Irish famine? Look no further than The Great Irish Famine: A History in Four Lives by Enda Delaney. This remarkable book offers a unique perspective on the tragic events that unfolded during the Irish famine, weaving together the stories of four individuals whose lives were forever altered by this catastrophic event.

Delaney’s book brings to life the harrowing experiences of those who lived through the famine, allowing readers to truly understand the immense suffering and resilience of the Irish people during this time. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Delaney paints a vivid picture of the social, economic, and political factors that contributed to the famine, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of this dark period in Irish history.

What sets this book apart is its focus on the individual stories of those affected by the famine. By following the lives of four people from different backgrounds and social classes, Delaney offers a nuanced and deeply human account of the famine’s impact. From a young girl struggling to survive in a workhouse to a wealthy landlord grappling with guilt and responsibility, these narratives provide a powerful and intimate look at the wide-ranging consequences of the famine.

Delaney’s writing is both compelling and compassionate, allowing readers to connect with the characters and empathize with their struggles. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to convey the emotional depth of his subjects make this book an engrossing and enlightening read.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply interested in learning more about this pivotal period in Irish history, The Great Irish Famine: A History in Four Lives is a must-read. Delaney’s masterful storytelling and thorough research make this book a true gem, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on the Irish famine. Prepare to be moved, enlightened, and ultimately inspired by the resilience and strength of the Irish people in the face of unimaginable hardship.

Buy the book

The Graves Are Walking: The Great Famine and the Saga of the Irish People

by John Kelly

The Graves Are Walking: The Great Famine and the Saga of the Irish People by John Kelly is a captivating book on the Irish famine that delves deep into the harrowing events and tragic consequences of this dark chapter in history. Kelly’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling transport readers to 19th century Ireland, where they witness the heartbreaking struggle of the Irish people during one of the most devastating famines in human history.

This book about the Irish famine sheds light on the complexities and intricacies of this catastrophic event, exploring the political, social, and economic factors that exacerbated the suffering of the Irish population. Kelly skillfully weaves together a narrative that not only examines the causes of the famine, but also delves into the government’s woefully inadequate response, the dire conditions faced by the starving masses, and the widespread emigration that forever changed the course of Irish history.

With a compelling blend of historical analysis and personal stories, Kelly brings the voices of the Irish people to life, allowing readers to empathize with their anguish and resilience. From the overcrowded workhouses to the decaying potato fields, from the desperate pleas for help to the heartbreaking scenes of death and despair, this book on the Irish famine paints a vivid and haunting picture of the unimaginable suffering endured by millions.

Through his meticulous research and engaging narrative, Kelly provides a comprehensive understanding of the Irish famine, dispelling myths and misconceptions while offering a nuanced perspective on this tragic period. His prose is both informative and emotionally compelling, making this book about the Irish famine an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in Irish history.

In summary, The Graves Are Walking is a powerful and thought-provoking book on the Irish famine that brings the human story behind this devastating event to the forefront. Kelly’s meticulous research, combined with his engaging storytelling, makes this a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of the Irish famine on the Irish people and the world.

Buy the book

Black Potatoes: The Story of the Great Irish Famine, 1845-1850

by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Black Potatoes: The Story of the Great Irish Famine, 1845-1850 by Susan Campbell Bartoletti is a compelling and heart-wrenching book about one of the darkest periods in Irish history. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Bartoletti brings to life the haunting tale of the Irish famine, a tragedy that forever changed the course of Ireland.

In this gripping narrative, Bartoletti delves into the root causes of the famine, exploring the political, economic, and social factors that led to the devastating potato blight. She paints a vivid picture of the desperate conditions faced by the Irish people, as they watched their main food source wither away before their eyes.

Through firsthand accounts and personal stories, Bartoletti humanizes the immense suffering endured by the Irish population during this time. She introduces us to families torn apart by hunger and disease, and the heroic efforts of those who tried to alleviate the suffering.

But Black Potatoes is not just a book about the Irish famine; it is a story of resilience and determination. Bartoletti highlights the strength and courage of the Irish people as they fought to survive in the face of overwhelming adversity. She explores the impact of the famine on Irish culture and history, and the lasting scars it left behind.

With its powerful narrative and insightful analysis, Black Potatoes is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the Irish famine and its far-reaching consequences. Bartoletti’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making this complex and tragic period in history accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

So if you’re looking for a book on the Irish famine that will both educate and captivate you, look no further than Black Potatoes: The Story of the Great Irish Famine, 1845-1850. Prepare to be moved and enlightened by this unforgettable account of one of the most devastating events in Irish history.

Buy the book

The Famine Plot: England’s Role in Ireland’s Greatest Tragedy

by Tim Pat Coogan

The Famine Plot: England’s Role in Ireland’s Greatest Tragedy by Tim Pat Coogan is a captivating book on the Irish famine that delves into the heart-wrenching events and uncovers the true extent of England’s involvement. Coogan, a renowned historian and author, provides a meticulous examination of this dark period in Irish history.

This book about the Irish famine goes beyond the surface-level understanding of the tragedy, shedding light on the political, social, and economic factors that contributed to the devastating famine. Coogan’s extensive research and compelling storytelling bring the reader face-to-face with the suffering and desperation experienced by the Irish people.

Coogan’s writing style is both informative and engaging, making it an accessible read for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the complexities of the Irish famine. His ability to present historical facts with a human touch allows readers to connect with the individuals affected by the famine, creating a profound emotional impact.

Through The Famine Plot, Coogan challenges long-held beliefs and exposes the negligence and deliberate actions of the British government during this tragic time. By meticulously analyzing official documents, personal testimonies, and political maneuverings, he reveals the true extent of England’s role in exacerbating the crisis.

This Irish famine book is a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive and eye-opening account of one of Ireland’s greatest tragedies. Coogan shines a light on the untold stories, the human suffering, and the political machinations that shaped the course of history. The Famine Plot is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of the Irish people and serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding our past to shape a better future.

Buy the book

Atlas of the Great Irish Famine

by John Crowley, William J. Smyth, and Mike Murphy

Looking for a captivating and comprehensive book about the Irish famine? Look no further than the Atlas of the Great Irish Famine by John Crowley, William J. Smyth, and Mike Murphy.

This extraordinary masterpiece delves deep into the heartbreaking tragedy that devastated Ireland in the 19th century. With meticulous research and stunning visuals, this definitive atlas brings the famine to life like never before.

From the desolate landscapes of the country to the harrowing stories of the people who suffered, this book encapsulates the unimaginable horrors of the Irish famine. It explores the causes, consequences, and lasting impact of this cataclysmic event on Ireland and its diaspora.

Featuring powerful illustrations, maps, and photographs, this atlas allows you to trace the journeys of those affected by the famine, highlighting the desperation and resilience of the Irish people during this dark period.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or simply someone looking to understand this pivotal moment in Irish history, the Atlas of the Great Irish Famine is an indispensable resource. It will leave you with a profound appreciation for the strength of the human spirit and the importance of remembering the struggles of the past.

Don’t miss out on this remarkable book that brings the Irish famine to life in a way that is both educational and emotionally engrossing. Discover the untold stories and explore the tragic landscape of one of the darkest chapters in Irish history.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History

by Colm Tóibín

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History by Colm Tóibín is not just another book on the Irish famine, it is a powerful and compelling exploration of one of the most tragic periods in Irish history. Tóibín’s meticulous research and evocative storytelling bring the plight of the Irish people during the famine to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the devastating impact of this tragic event.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Short History

by Helen Litton

The Irish Famine: A Short History by Helen Litton is a captivating exploration of one of the darkest periods in Irish history. This compelling book delves into the tragic events of the Irish famine, also known as the Great Hunger or An Gorta Mór.

With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, Litton takes readers on a journey through the harrowing years of the mid-19th century, when Ireland was ravaged by a catastrophic potato blight. The famine, which lasted from 1845 to 1852, resulted in the deaths of over a million people and the mass emigration of countless others.

Litton’s book offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of this devastating period, shedding light on the causes, consequences, and lasting impact of the famine. From the failure of the potato crop to the inadequate response of the British government, she examines the factors that exacerbated the crisis and examines the political, social, and economic implications that shaped Ireland for generations to come.

What sets this book apart is Litton’s ability to humanize the famine, presenting the stories of individuals who lived through this immense tragedy. Through their words and experiences, she brings to life the unimaginable suffering and resilience of ordinary Irish people during this time of unprecedented hardship.

The Irish Famine: A Short History is a highly accessible and engaging read that will appeal to both history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of their Irish heritage. Litton’s eloquent prose and expert storytelling make this book an essential resource for anyone interested in the Irish famine, a pivotal chapter in Irish history that continues to resonate to this day.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: An Illustrated History

by Helen Litton

Are you ready to dive into a captivating journey through one of the most tragic periods in history? Look no further than The Irish Famine: An Illustrated History by Helen Litton. This riveting book delves into the heart-wrenching story of the Irish famine, shedding light on a devastating chapter that forever altered the course of Ireland’s history.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the vivid illustrations that bring this dark period to life. Litton’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling will transport you to the famine-stricken Ireland of the 19th century, where the struggle for survival was a daily battle.

As you turn each page, you’ll witness the resilience and courage of the Irish people, who faced unimaginable hardships with unwavering determination. Litton’s powerful narrative captures the human stories behind the statistics, giving voice to those who lived through this harrowing time.

From the causes and consequences of the famine to the political and social aspects that shaped its course, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the Irish famine. With its engaging prose and visually stunning imagery, The Irish Famine: An Illustrated History is not just a book about the Irish famine; it is an immersive experience that will leave you deeply moved and enlightened.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a poignant journey through history, grab a copy of The Irish Famine: An Illustrated History and prepare to be captivated by the resilience, tragedy, and triumph that define this dark chapter in Ireland’s past.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Cultural and Social History

by Christine Kinealy

Are you ready to dive into a captivating journey through a tragic chapter of Irish history? Look no further than The Irish Famine: A Cultural and Social History by Christine Kinealy. This remarkable book is a profound exploration of one of the most devastating events in Irish history, providing a unique perspective on the catastrophe that befell the land of the shamrock.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary

by Don Mullan

Discover the heartbreaking tale of one of the darkest periods in Irish history with “The Irish Famine: A Documentary” by Don Mullan. This captivating book on the Irish Famine offers a comprehensive account of the devastating events that unfolded during the mid-19th century.

Step into the shoes of those who lived through this harrowing time as Mullan’s meticulous research and powerful storytelling take you on a journey through the tragic era of the Great Hunger. With vivid descriptions and compelling narratives, the author brings to life the struggles, resilience, and unimaginable suffering of the Irish people.

As you delve into this gripping book about the Irish Famine, you will uncover the underlying causes, the catastrophic consequences, and the heroic efforts of those who fought to alleviate the suffering. Mullan’s work sheds light on the complex social, political, and economic factors that exacerbated the famine, helping you gain a deeper understanding of this significant period in Irish history.

Through the use of primary sources, photographs, and personal accounts, “The Irish Famine: A Documentary” offers an intimate and thought-provoking examination of this devastating event. This book on the Irish Famine serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Irish people and the importance of remembering and learning from the past.

Immerse yourself in this compelling book about the Irish Famine and gain a profound insight into a tragedy that forever shaped the history and identity of Ireland. Don Mullan’s powerful storytelling and meticulous research make this the Irish famine book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand this dark chapter in Irish history.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Study in Nationalism

by Desmond Keenan

If you’re on the hunt for a captivating and thought-provoking read, look no further than The Irish Famine: A Study in Nationalism by Desmond Keenan. This extraordinary book on the Irish famine delves deep into the heart-wrenching tragedy that unfolded in Ireland during the mid-19th century.

Keenan’s compelling narrative takes you on a journey through history, exploring the complex web of factors that led to the devastating famine. With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, he uncovers the roots of the crisis, shedding light on the political, economic, and social forces at play.

But what truly sets this book about the Irish famine apart is its exploration of nationalism. Keenan delves into how the famine became a catalyst for Irish nationalism, sparking a renewed sense of identity and resilience among the Irish people. Through vivid descriptions and poignant anecdotes, he paints a vivid picture of a nation in turmoil, fighting for survival and independence.

Keenan’s writing style is both engaging and accessible, making this the Irish famine book a compelling read for both history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience. With each page, you’ll find yourself immersed in the heartbreaking struggles and triumphs of the Irish people, and perhaps even gain a newfound appreciation for the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey through history, pick up The Irish Famine: A Study in Nationalism and prepare to be captivated by a story that transcends time and resonates with the resilience of the human spirit.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Select Bibliography

by Liam Kennedy

The Irish Famine: A Select Bibliography by Liam Kennedy is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to dive deep into the tragic period of history known as the Irish Famine. This book is not just another book on the Irish Famine; it is a comprehensive compilation of resources, making it an indispensable guide for scholars, researchers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Delving into the pages of this book about the Irish Famine, readers will find an extensive collection of writings, ranging from academic studies and historical accounts to personal memoirs and eyewitness testimonies. Liam Kennedy has meticulously curated this bibliography, handpicking the most significant and thought-provoking works on the subject, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the Irish Famine.

Whether you are a student wanting to explore the Irish Famine for an assignment, a researcher studying the socio-economic impact of the famine, or simply an individual with a keen interest in Irish history, this book will undoubtedly become your go-to reference. Its depth and breadth of coverage ensure that it covers all aspects of the Irish Famine, from the causes and consequences to the political and cultural ramifications.

What sets this book apart is its ability to provide a multidimensional view of the Irish Famine. By including a diverse range of sources, Liam Kennedy allows readers to gain insights from different perspectives, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of this tragic period. Whether it’s the harrowing accounts of survivors or the scholarly analysis of historians, this book captures the essence and complexity of the Irish Famine.

So, if you are in search of a definitive resource on the Irish Famine, look no further. The Irish Famine: A Select Bibliography by Liam Kennedy is an invaluable companion that will guide you through the vast landscape of literature on this significant historical event. Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery and understanding as you navigate the pages of this extraordinary book.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Bibliographical Guide for Researchers

by Christine Kinealy

The Irish Famine: A Bibliographical Guide for Researchers by Christine Kinealy is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to delve into the tragic events of the 19th-century Irish famine. This comprehensive book about the Irish famine presents a wealth of information and resources, making it an invaluable tool for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in understanding this devastating period of Irish history.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary Record

by Edited by Robert Davis and Mark Mulholland

The Irish Famine: A Documentary Record is a remarkable book about the tragic period in Irish history known as the Great Hunger. This compelling volume provides a unique and comprehensive insight into one of the most devastating events in Ireland’s past.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850

by Edited by Richard Davis

If you’re looking for a gripping and comprehensive book about the Irish famine, then look no further than “The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850” edited by Richard Davis. This remarkable collection of historical documents provides a vivid and heart-wrenching account of one of the darkest periods in Irish history.

With over 200 primary sources, including letters, diaries, newspaper articles, and official reports, this book offers an unparalleled insight into the devastating impact of the famine on the Irish population. From the initial failure of the potato crop to the mass emigration that followed, every aspect of this tragic event is meticulously documented.

What sets this book apart is its ability to transport you back in time and make you feel like a witness to the horrors and struggles faced by the Irish people. Through the words of those who lived through it, you’ll experience the desperation, the hunger, and the profound loss that plagued the nation.

But “The Irish Famine” is not just a collection of harrowing stories. It also delves into the political and social context of the time, shedding light on the actions (or lack thereof) taken by the British government and the role of landlords in exacerbating the crisis. It paints a comprehensive picture of a complex and deeply tragic event.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply interested in learning more about this pivotal moment in Irish history, “The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850” is a must-read. It will educate, enlighten, and leave you with a profound understanding of the human toll and resilience in the face of one of the worst famines in history.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850

by Edited by T. Desmond Williams

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850 is a captivating book that delves into the heart-wrenching tragedy of the Irish famine. This remarkable documentary sheds light on one of the darkest periods in Ireland’s history, providing a comprehensive overview of the devastating events that unfolded during those fateful years.

Edited by T. Desmond Williams, this book on the Irish famine takes readers on a journey through time, meticulously piecing together a collection of primary source materials, such as letters, reports, and personal accounts. These documents not only provide invaluable insights into the causes and consequences of the famine but also give voice to the countless individuals who suffered during this catastrophic period.

Through its vivid and poignant storytelling, this book about the Irish famine transports readers back to a time when Ireland was ravaged by crop failures, disease, and mass starvation. It explores the political, economic, and social factors that exacerbated the crisis, unveiling the harsh realities faced by the Irish population.

With a wealth of information at its disposal, The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850 does not shy away from examining the failures of the British government and the inadequate relief efforts that left countless lives hanging in the balance. It offers a thought-provoking analysis of the impact of colonialism and the profound consequences it had on the Irish people.

This book on the Irish famine is not merely a historical account; it is a testament to the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Irish people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and the need to learn from the mistakes of the past, ensuring that such a tragedy is never repeated.

If you are seeking a compelling and enlightening read that delves into the depths of the Irish famine, this meticulously curated documentary history is an essential addition to your collection. Prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired as you bear witness to the untold stories of those who endured unimaginable suffering during this dark chapter in Irish history.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850

by Edited by Peter Gray

If you’re looking for a captivating and informative book on the Irish Famine, then look no further than “The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850”. This compelling book delves into the tragic events of the Irish Famine, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of this devastating period in history.

Edited by Peter Gray, this book about the Irish Famine is a treasure trove of primary source documents, allowing readers to hear the voices of those who experienced the famine firsthand. From letters and diary entries to newspaper articles and government reports, these documents paint a vivid picture of the harrowing conditions and the immense suffering endured by the Irish people.

The Irish Famine book takes readers on a journey through the years of the famine, exploring its causes, effects, and the various responses from both the Irish and British governments. It sheds light on the devastating impact of the potato blight, which led to widespread crop failure and the subsequent starvation and mass emigration.

What sets this book apart is its ability to humanize the tragedy of the Irish Famine. By including personal accounts and testimonies, readers gain a deeper understanding of the individual stories and struggles of those affected. It brings to light the resilience and strength of the Irish people in the face of unimaginable hardship.

With its meticulous research and comprehensive collection of primary sources, “The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850” is an essential read for anyone seeking to learn more about this pivotal period in Irish history. This book on the Irish Famine shines a light on a dark chapter, ensuring that the stories and experiences of those affected are not forgotten.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850

by Edited by James S. Donnelly Jr.

Are you ready to embark on a journey back in time to one of the darkest periods in Irish history? If so, then ‘The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850’ is the book for you. This captivating book delves deep into the heart-wrenching tragedy that was the Irish Famine, offering a comprehensive collection of primary sources and documents that shed light on this devastating event.

Edited by James S. Donnelly Jr., this gripping anthology brings together a wealth of firsthand accounts, newspaper articles, letters, and government reports, giving readers an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who experienced the famine firsthand. From the initial signs of blight on the potato crops to the mass exodus of starving Irish people in search of a better life, every aspect of this horrific catastrophe is meticulously documented and analyzed.

Whether you’re a history buff, a student studying Irish history, or simply someone seeking to understand the impact of the famine, this book is an invaluable resource. It paints a vivid picture of the social, economic, and political landscape of Ireland during this time, allowing readers to grasp the magnitude of the suffering endured by the Irish people.

Through the powerful words of those who lived through the famine, ‘The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850’ brings the past to life, transporting readers to a time of immense hardship and resilience. Prepare to be moved, enlightened, and forever changed by this remarkable book about the Irish famine.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850

by Edited by Gerard Moran

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850 is an incredibly insightful and comprehensive book on the tragic period known as the Irish Famine. Edited by Gerard Moran, this book offers a unique perspective on one of the most devastating events in Irish history. If you’re looking for a deep dive into the heart-wrenching stories and historical documents surrounding the famine, then this is the book for you.

Within the pages of this remarkable book about the Irish famine, you’ll find a wealth of primary sources, including letters, diary entries, government reports, and newspaper articles. These firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of the unimaginable suffering that the Irish people endured during this time.

What sets this book apart is its ability to transport you back in time, allowing you to witness the famine through the eyes of those who lived it. The Irish Famine: A Documentary History captures the voices of the starving, the desperate pleas for help, and the heartbreaking stories of loss. It delves deep into the social, political, and economic factors that contributed to the famine, providing a comprehensive understanding of this dark period in Irish history.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, or simply seeking to educate yourself on this significant event, this book on the Irish famine is an absolute must-read. It offers a gripping narrative that will keep you engaged from cover to cover, shedding light on a tragedy that should never be forgotten. The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850 is an essential addition to any bookshelf, providing a powerful and poignant account of one of Ireland’s darkest chapters.

Buy the book

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850

by Edited by Cormac Ó Gráda

The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850 is an incredibly insightful and comprehensive book about the devastating period known as the Irish Famine. Edited by Cormac Ó Gráda, this book offers a unique perspective on one of the darkest chapters in Ireland’s history.

With meticulous research and a wealth of primary sources, Ó Gráda paints a vivid picture of the famine’s causes, consequences, and the human suffering that occurred during this tragic time. Rather than a traditional narrative, this book presents a collection of documents, including letters, diaries, newspaper articles, and government reports, providing firsthand accounts and eyewitness testimonies.

What sets this book apart is its ability to transport the reader directly into the heart of the famine. Through the voices of those who lived through it, we gain a deep understanding of the desperation, resilience, and sheer horror that defined this period. The documents selected by Ó Gráda offer a diverse range of perspectives, from the experiences of the impoverished Irish peasantry to the responses of politicians and relief organizations.

While the subject matter is undeniably grim, Ó Gráda’s expertise and careful curation of these historical documents make this book a must-read for anyone interested in Irish history or the broader themes of famine, migration, and social justice. The Irish Famine: A Documentary History, 1845-1850 sheds light on a pivotal moment in Ireland’s past, reminding us of the importance of understanding and remembering the human tragedies that shape our world.