This is a book of mystical, yet relevent, short stories, poetry and a play presented in the traditional Irish literary format. It follows the tradition of such authors as W. B. Yeats, Standish O'Grady, Samuel Beckett, Seamus Heaney, Dermot Healy, and other inspirational Irish authors. It covers a wide range of historical and contemporary subject matter presented in an interesting and thoughtful context.

In the renowned traditions of Irish literature, mythology, and storytelling "Tales from Kilkenny and the South " stimulates the creative imagination.

Dr. Sommers lives part of the time in Ireland and part of the time in America, has been a professor of Irish history and literature for over twenty-five years, and incorporates much of this learning into the interesting and imaginative stories presented here.

He has lectured at numerous universities, as well as cultural and heritage associations, and his writings like his lectures are most enjoyable, informative, and entertaining.

In this easily read overview applicable to both scholars and the general reading public, Dr. Sommers covers the extremely interesting history of this ancient island of Saints and Scholars. He presents the historical facts within the context of the overall story and delivers these in the more exciting method of a traditional storyteller. Topics discussed include the Neolithic peoples, Celtic Mythology, the Vikings, the Norman English, Medieval Ireland, the Williamite Wars, the Cromwellian Period, Irish Secret Societies, the Irish Literary Renaissance, the Easter Rising, the War for Independence, the I.R.A., the Anglo-Irish Treaty, the Irish Civil War, the Constitution of 1937, the Troubles, and Modern Ireland. Dr. Sommers has researched thoroughly the facts surrounding many of Irish history's most notable events and individuals, presenting them here in a most understandable and enjoyable context. His work has been praised by many notable academics, historians, and literary figures.

"Tales from Sligo and the West" encompasses both historic and contemporary views of the magical and mystical nature of this region. The literary tradition in this area is as ancient as any on earth, dating back thousands of years, originating in the oral traditions of the Irish Celts, Druids, Poets, and Bards.These traditions were carried forth by the early Christian monks who incorporated and preserved the Celtic/Gaelic stories and artwork into their outstanding illuminated manuscripts, now realized as the oldest and most beautiful ever produced, many of which are now housed in the great library of Trinity College Dublin.The highly inspirational history of this small island has produced many of the world's greatest authors, including Jonathan Swift, Edmund Burke, Oliver Goldsmith, Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Bram Stoker, Sean O'Casey, C. S. Lewis, Kate O'Brien, Lady Augusta Gregory, Patrick Kavanagh, Brian Friel, Dermot Healy, Willie Joe Meally; and, includes four Nobel Laureates, William Butler Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heaney."Tales from Sligo and the West" is the next progression of this extraordinary tradition.

This is a book of mystical, yet relevent, short stories, poetry and a play presented in the traditional Irish literary format. It follows the tradition of such authors as W. B. Yeats, Standish O'Grady, Samuel Beckett, Seamus Heaney, Dermot Healy, and other inspirational Irish authors. It covers a wide range of historical and contemporary subject matter presented in an interesting and thoughtful context.