This was a really great way to get an overview of the History of Ireland. I wanted just a general education. I have found it a bit challenging to study other history books on the subject. They take a lot of time and I can't begin to absorb all of the information as quickly as I would like to. So, for a quick synopsis this book really fills the bill. It was interesting right from the beginning too, not kinda' boring like the others that you have to stick with at first until you get past the geography to actual historical description. Also at the end is a great section on helping you find your own Irish genealogy. This was very good for a basic education, easy to read and assimilate. ( )