Shamrocks, Harps, and Shillelaghs: The Story of the St. Patrick's Day Symbols

by Edna Barth, Ursula Arndt (Illustrator)

The origins of St. Patrick's Day and the folklore, fancy, and traditions that give the holiday its many diverse symbols.

Genres: Holiday, Nonfiction, Childrens, History, Ireland

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Angle]

Do you know where St. Patrick was from, and his real name? Do you know the difference between leprechauns and fairies? Do you know why harps were buried with the dead? How about the symbolism of shamrocks, and the importance of shillelaghs? I'm not sure I'd ever thought too much about any of those things, but now I know, and there you go. (Did you know the Irish are known for their poets?)

I picked this up at the library, for a quick little read on the history of St. Patrick's Day. It's simply written, and rather dry; however, it provides a good overview and a quick history on the holiday (comes in at 92 pages). I'm not sure I'd say this is a kids book - perhaps it's intended to be read aloud? The illustrations are simple line drawings, with no color, and I'm not even sure the pictures match up with the subject on the page, so, if you intend to read this to a younger audience, be prepared to add the entertainment yourself!

[Constance]

What is a Shillelagh? Read Edna Barth's Shamrock's, Harps, and Shillelaghs to find out. It would charm my leprechauns just to be able to pronounce shillelagh - SHəˈlālē -

[E]

Dry AF but informative and interesting.

[Ali]

This is a children's book. That being said, its very #seasonal and #aesthetic and also pretty good history for a children's book.

[SamZ]

This book was full of information and history on the background of St. Patrick's Day and its accompanying symbols, so I was excited to read it. I was, however, a little bored and q lot disappointed with the almost textbook-like delivery of information. I wish that the illustrations were more a part of the story and that the information had been presented in a fun and interestIng manner.

[Sarah]

This is a fun book that explains the history behind the symbols of St. Patrick's day. It is fun to learn about St. Patrick, the history of Ireland and why the Irish are so fervent about their St. Pat's celebrations.

[Sara]

A nice overview of the holiday and its symbols for kids. Includes a short biography of Saint Patrick & some other Irish and Irish-American history.

[Krista]

Good, informational.