The Height of Nonsense

by Paul Clements

Chronicles the author's comic attempt to find the highest point in each of Ireland's 32 counties

Genres: Nonfiction, Ireland, Memoir

384 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2005

Reviews

[Conrad · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the vantage point of the top of many of Ireland's highest points - be they hills or mountains (although none are much over 3,000ft), the author takes the reader on a road trip around Ireland interspersing his descriptions of the views with insights into the history and people who have, and still do, populate those areas. It was a interesting read although many of the place names are indecipherable to anyone who is not a native of the Emerald Isle.

[Clare O'Beara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lighthearted read, in which the author explores some of the highest places in Ireland and discovers the folktales associated with them and the meanings of the Irish placenames.

I didn't find this so funny as 'McCarthy's Bar' or so personal as 'Round Ireland With A Fridge' by other authors, but it's a pleasant read.

[H. Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this, an Irish mountain love story. Pictures would have made it perfect.

[Alun · Rating 3 out of 5]

A gentle account of the authors perambulations around the GMRs (Great Mountain Roads) of Ireland and visiting the highest points in each and every county - although he is quick to share with the reader that, as half a dozen of the counties share highest points, only 29 summits are necessary to tick off all32 counties.

His amusing and informative accounts of encounters with flora, fauna and folk make this an engaging read. Good enough to make me consider adding the county tops and towns to my bucket list.