I've always wanted to learn Irish, but when I look at the books in the bookstore I get frustrated. The books I come across are mainly conversational (such as Irish on Your Own) or phrases for traveling. I want to be able to use this as an every day language (as much as possible), but am finding it difficult to find books structured to learning the entire langauge for more than just travel. I recently saw on Amazon that Harry Potter is now in Irish. I would love to be able to read it this way. Does anyone have any suggestions or books that they would recommend?

You could try Turas Teanga:

http://www.rte.ie/tv/turasteanga/

Or "Learning Irish" by Micheál Ó Siadhail:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0300084161/103-9778116-0372655

The most complete resource available to the average consumer is "Learning Irish". Get that and An Fócloir Póca and Irish Grammar: A Basic Handbook by Noel McGonagle. You'll have to study and you'll get frustrated, but with these three items, you can learn to speak Irish beyond the tourist shops and coffee houses.

You're going to hear others mention Teach Yourself Irish or Irish On Your Own and these are good resources. However, you specifically asked about learning the language for more than just travel. In my never-to-be humble opinion, Learning Irish is the only resource (short of a classroom and immersion) that will fit that bill.

Le meas,

James

Turas Teanga is an excellent book, and I would strongly recommend it for intermediate learners. But as the book's authors point out it's written for the intermediate learner. Maybe consider Turas Teanga a little down the road, after you've been studying from "Learning Irish."

I'm inclined to agree with Dáithí concerning RTÉ's Turas Teanga. The book, CDs and DVDs are indeed aimed at "...those who already know some Irish but wish to brush up on their knowledge."

James' suggestion is good.

Le meas,

Thanks! I'll start with Learning Irish.

Get "Cúrsa Closamhairc Gaeilge" too, and study it either before or after "Learning Irish."

Part 1:

http://www.eofeasa.ie/cuplafocal/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=1 123
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Part 2:

http://www.eofeasa.ie/cuplafocal//catalog/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id= 709

http://www.schoenhofs.com/app/detail:1a4365be001d55cb?isbn=X20160

'Teach Yourself Irish', (book and 2 cassettes) by O'Sé and Sheils is excellent.

Amanda,

Try

http://www.gaeilgenaseachtaine.com

It doesn't cost anything and is designed to help every level of learner and to be a source of reference for all.

Cois Life have books to help you too. "Séanna" comes with a CD so you can listen to the story as you read.

http://www.coislife.ie/

" "Séanna" comes with a CD so you can listen to the story as you read. "

I concur. I have this book and CD set. It is a great way to get your mind wrapped around Irish pronunciation. But, I wouldn't recommend it as a starting point. Get into Learning Irish (or whatever other "text" you want) before jumping into Séanna.

Le meas,

James