Christmas is less than a week away, and I still have a few last minute gifts to grab. I feel like the people that I have known the longest are often the most difficult to shop for. My father-in-law is one of those people. He is by no means picky and is genuinely happy with the fact that you consider him at all. That means I want to get him something really GREAT, and this year I was fortunate enough to come across something I think he will really enjoy; "The Story We Carry in Our Bones: Irish History for Americans".

The book, written by Professor of Irish Studies Juilene Osborne-McKnight, is separated into four comprehensive sections. Osborne-McKnight explains, "Books on Irish history are often subject specific, for example The Potato Famine, Ancient Ireland, or Michael Collins. The Story We Carry in Our Bones takes a larger view of Irish history making the stories relevant to Americans."

There are fantastic photographs and illustrations throughout The Story We Carry in Our Bones. There is also a pretty wide variety of topics addressed including the big picture behind Irish immigration to the United States (past and present), Christianity's arrival in Ireland, and the truth behind St.Patrick's identity and why he is relevant to Irish Americans today. 

I am sure my father-in-law, who is of Irish ancestry and enjoys learning about many subjects, will love this book. I had the opportunity to glance over it briefly, and I kind of want a copy for myself. I can't wait to see his reaction when he opens it on Christmas!