The Skellig Story: Ancient Monastic Outpost (Island Series

by Des Lavelle

This compact book is an essential guide to the mystical Skellig islands. These islands, appearing like two jagged pyramids rising out of the ocean, lie seven miles off the west coast of Ireland. Both entirely uninhabited, the larger, Skellig Michael, contains extensive remains of an Early Christian monastic site. The other island, Small Skellig, is a celebrated bird sanctuary that includes thousands of gannets and the rarely-seen puffin.

Genres: Nonfiction, Ireland, History, Travel

112 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

Reviews

[Bill Sheridan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fairly short book provides a nice overview of the Skelligs by an author who clearly has a deep interest and knowledge of all aspects of these unique islands. The topography, geology and flora and fauna of the Skelligs and the surrounding seas are dealt with in some detail but the historical sections of the book seem to be somewhat less detailed. Although this may simply be due to a scarcity of historical data, the stories and legends that are mentioned provide a fascinating, if limited, perspective on life in the monastery and the lighthouses on Skellig Michael. Overall a very pleasant read for anyone interested in the Skelligs.

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was looking for a bit more detail in both the section about the monastic times as well as the geology. Gives a good enough overview of the island history and birds.

[LuAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good short history and natural history of the Skelligs, Skellig Michael and Little Skellig, two small rocky islands of the western coast of Ireland. Only reachable by boat about 5 months of the year and then only on good days, Skellig Michael was home to a monastic community who lived in stone beehive huts then later to lighthouse keepers. Both are home to thousands of sea birds. Des Lavelle has visited, sailed and dived by the Skelligs all his life and an ancestor was a lighthouse keeper. My husband and I have arranged for him to take us to Skellig Michael on our imminent trip to Ireland.

[Monica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dated, but a very clear description of the Skellig and its history, flora, fauna, etc, providing a good overview of the island.