New book by County Derry author to be launched in Naas

Author Pat Mullan, originally from rural County Derry, has spent most of his life in Eadestown, Naas.

Pat will be launching his self-published debut collection of stories and poems in Naas Library and Cultural Centre at 6.30pm for 7.00pm on Thursday, October 17.

All are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be available.

The Tales from Derry, Kildare and Beyond collection by Pat Mullan, features over 60 short stories and more than a dozen poems. Is is a warm and sometimes witty collection of stories, poems and memories from the 1960’s to the present day.

It covers a range of themes including, growing up in sixties and seventies Ireland, parent / offspring relationships, the challenges of living through the Troubles, life ‘s challenges in the workplace, advances in technology, farming life, illness, Covid, ageing and dying, and all the vagaries that life presents.

Published by local printers, Naas Printing Ltd, proceeds from the sale of the books will be shared equally between two very worthy charities - the Jack & Jill Foundation in Johnstown and Foyle Hospice in Derry.

John MacKenna (Kildare author, poet and playwright) said: "Tales from Derry, Kildare and Beyond is the real thing: the real landscape: the real people; the real accents and sounds; the real experiences; the real joy and the real sadness of people's lives.

"Whether it's a short-story, a remembered experience, a poem regretting a life lost or a ballad celebrating a milestone achieved - these works are filled with the authentic experiences of life and death; showbands and hospital wards; potato fields and the halls of Harvard. "Authentic, quietly humorous, deeply personal - this is the real thing."

Pauline Clooney (Director Kildare Writers Centre & Author says: "Pat Mullan’s debut collection is populated with memorable characters, adeptly handled in an assured, often very humorous manner by a writer who understands the human condition…With a clear understanding of the grittier, sometimes flawed nature of humanity, Mullan gives us characters confronting coming of age dilemmas, emigration, and the often-confrontational nature of border checkpoints…

"Mullan writes with a wicked, though controlled sense of wry humour.

"As well as the humour, and perhaps what will linger most with the reader, is the succinct poignancy in Mullan’s style, his ability to catch the heart off guard with a subtlety and sensitivity, a quiet, controlled voice that is so compelling. Mullan does not shy away from handling the more serious and distressing aspects of life…"

Mae Leonard (Author, poet & broadcaster) says: "Pat Mullan eases you gently into his world, real and imaginary. He holds you fast there with his perfectly crafted short stories and poetry. This Collection is something to be very proud of. It is a treasure chest that you will return to read and enjoy again and again."