Gerald O'Mahony

A difficult read. Not quite what I expected. A sympathetic voice, the author speaks with affection for his forebears and produces in parts something of a memoir. He covers a variety of topics with particular reference to three agrarian societies in Ireland, Italy and in great detail rural Poland. He is ambitious addressing a range of themes from the material to the metaphysical . He draws heavily on the work of others, particularly John Berger. A worthwhile challenge but at times the book leaves one uncertain whether less would have been more.

Quite awful. Tortured and contrived use of language.

A book of two halves. Starts with an autobiographical summary of his entry into comedy writing after first being a magazine critic. Covers his creative contribution to Father Ted and other notable TV successes. For devotees this is all holds your attention. He moves on to his involvement in the controversy over trans issues. Clear, lucid, compassionate and commited. An unlikely but uncompromising hero, details the high personal, career and financial costs he had pay. Finds a comfortable balance between humour and rigour.

Excellent read. Valuable for decision making before committing to mainstream pathways of university entry, when uncertain of where ones aptitudes and abilities lie. Considers where ones energies would be best spent and ambitions realised. Alternate vocational or modular skills acquisition is considered as possibly providing a route better suited for an individual. Interesting comparisons are offered with how further education is approached in a range of advanced economies.