I am just a humble guy living in the south trying to self­teach Irish. I am looking for any asset to help me that I can find. Right now I need a recommendation for books that give detailed explanations of Irish grammar. Any help/suggestions will be most appreciated.

A Chara,

I found Irish Grammar - A Basic Handbook by Noel McGonagle a useful smal guide. ISBN 1 900693 98 4. Published by Cló Iar-Chonnachta. I do not know if it is available where you are, but you could try their web site at http://www.cic.ie.

Larry

Hippocrene Books in New York publish the American edition of "Irish Grammar: A Basic Handbook" by Noel McGonagle. It is popular among learners, but the reason is its focus on the basics, not detail.

They also publish "Beginners Irish" by Gabriel Rosenstock, an Irish language poet who speaks Munster Irish. There is no tape, by the way. Hippocrene has a few other Irish language items which are modestly priced. Look for their website.

If you are really looking for detail, get the _New Irish Grammar_ by the Christian Brothers. It should be available from Irish Books & Media in Minneapolis: 800 229 3505. (They should also have the Hippocrene titles.)

I agree with Seosamh and second the vote for the "New Irish Grammar" by the Christian Brothers. ISBN 0714412988. I found it more useful and more detailed than the McGonagle book. Another place to get the book is www.schoenhofs.com.

I'm lucky enough to live right by them, but they sell over the net too. The have a HUGE Irish language section with every learning text and reference book out there; they even have grammar books for kids and the books used in Irish schools.

Good Luck!
-Fionnuala