Reviews for Lonely Planet Jaywalking with the Irish

The average rating for Lonely Planet Jaywalking with the Irish based on 2 reviews is 3 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2008-01-12 00:00:00 Roberta Ayscue Paints a realistic picture of how a family adapts to relocation in Ireland. The author compares the Ireland he knew while attending college and his dream to relocate there to the reality in its present-day culture. The author focuses on increased crime, alcoholism and xenophobia in a wealthier Ireland and how the country is slowly losing its Irishness with the economic prosperity. One interesting comment made was how it is turning into the 52nd state. While visiting Ireland briefly, I was sad to see that in alot of ways, its own culture is being absorbed by an increasing present American influence ie McDonalds, Asda (aka Walmart), KFC. At the same time, it was nice to smell turf fires burning and how people would greet each other on the street and make visitors feel welcome. I love the comparison he makes to his home in Connecticut and describes society in that east coast state. He is spot on when he says that people act indifferent and it is a sign of greatness and how he missed his neighbors and friends in Ireland who were warm and loved to carry on conversations. Glad I read it.

Review # 2 was written on 2013-08-29 00:00:00 Darby Little Mr. Monagan has written an impossible book: a book about Ireland without any charm whatsoever. I slogged through the book & after finishing it, I had three thoughts: 1) If you are going to have a mid-life crisis, try not to involve your family. 2) I would love to see what his family thought of the adventure. 3) The man really likes to drink. I found this book to be shallow & indulgent. I wish I could get a refund.