February 16, 2011
By Staff Reporter
THE IRISH ROUND TOWER
Origins and Architecture Explored
Brian Lalor
Seventy-three early medieval round towers survive in Ireland. They represent the only form of architecture unique to the island. In this handsome hardcover book, Brian Lalor, author of "The Laugh of Lost Men," examines the design, construction, function and landscape setting of each tower. The Collins Press, Cork, distributed by Dufour Editions, Chester Springs, Pa. 19425-0007; (610) 458-5005. 246 pp. $35.95.
ON CELTIC TIDES
One Man’s Journey Around
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Ireland by Sea Kayak
Chris Duff
Noted sea kayaker and lecturer Chris Duff recounts his perilous nine-month circumnavigation of Ireland. But beyond the fog, unpredictable waves and jagged, towering cliffs, Duff’s journey becomes one of self-discovery in which examines the history, culture and natural beauty of the island. St. Martin’s Press. 269 pp. $23.95.
CONTRACT WITH AN ANGEL
Andrew M. Greeley
This is Chicago Catholic priest Andrew Greeley’s spin on the old Faustian bargain, but here multimillionaire mogul Raymond Neenan strike a deal with, well, you get the message. Now in paperback. From Tor Mass Market. 384 pp. $6.99,
CELTIC AIRE
Dordán
An all-women Irish ensemble, Dordán bridges the traditional and the classical musical genres by blending the rich musical heritage of Turlough O’Carolan with classical compositions. Their repertoire of Irish traditional and baroque music has made them popular throughout Ireland and Europe; now music fans on the other side of the Atlantic can hear what all the fuss is about. From Narada Records, (414) 961-8350, suesch@narada.com.