Phoenix Park

Review by Mary Keener

One thousand seven hundred and fifty two acres of recreation housing wild and human life (no two buildings have the same design!) that is intimately associated with the times - past and present - that's Phoenix Park. Knowledge of this park provides a history lesson in Dublin's past. The book is also a guide for your walking and/or other pleasures.

And what pleasures are in store - misdemeanors, flora, fauna, a zoo, sports, crimes - even a self guided tour! One chapter deals with "literary links". Seamus Heaney is the name I recognized, but there are others beginning in the 19th century. Right before the index (yes, there's that also), you'll find miscellaneous and valuable information such as website addresses, specific events, tours, sights, transportation and contact details.

Brendan Nolan devotes 256 pages to this huge park. Photos add to the fact-filled text. The value, of course, is for tourists, visitors, travellers but also, for locals and anyone interested in seeing or reading about an historic and scenic park.