Gods Don't Cry : Unsung Stories of Ireland's Forgotten Immortals by Ellen Ryan
Ancient stories that challenge modern notions of what it means to be a hero. The ancient gods of Ireland were once worshipped throughout the land. Powerful and brave, they were unafraid to show their vulnerability, reject violence, or lean on others for support.
Sadly, their stories - passed down by our ancestors - are all but forgotten. Gods Don't Cry reawakens these gods, whose ancient tales redefine modern ideas of what it means to be a hero. From Mannanan, who uses his neurodiversity to discover the Otherworld, to Meiche, who finds the courage to accept his illness, Fer Maisse, a monster slayer who gives up glory to become a healer, and Cnu Deroil, who overcomes bullies with his musical talent.
Hurlers and warriors, academics, and activists - these are gods of many abilities, sizes, and skin shades, from every corner of Ireland. Follow their adventures as they perform magic, battle demons, overcome struggles and find the courage to be true to themselves. You might even see yourself in their stories and discover, that you too, are a hero.
About the Author
Ellen Ryan is a journalist and contributor to the Irish Times and Irish Independent. She has a passion for Irish myth and loves to visit archaeological sites (though she always brings a raincoat). Along with her husband and daughter, Ellen is lucky to live by the sea in Co. Wicklow, where she can keep an eye out for sea gods. While writing this book, Ellen was asked if she would use her birth name Ryan – daughter of her father – or Meaney – wife of her husband. But she is also Ellen, daughter of Paula the artist, daughter of Carmel the archaeologist, daughter of Nelly, who witnessed the founding of a nation.
About the Illustrator
Conor Merriman is an illustrator and award-winning designer from Dublin, Ireland. Apart from running his own design studio, Conor specialises in narrative world-building through illustration. Working over many different disciplines and industries such as film, hospitality, product design, branding and greeting cards, his work can be seen all over Ireland.
Praise for Gods Don’t Cry:
”'Gods Don't Cry is a fascinating, hugely-enjoyable, incredibly accessible journey into Irish myth. I loved it.”
- Derek Landy
Publisher: HarperCollins
Date Published: 26 October 2023
Hardback, 272 pgs.
ISBN: 9780008646912
