‘Some part of me believed I would become a more complete person if I spoke Irish, more in tune with my roots, my identity, my very being.’

‘I was one of the 1.8 million people who claimed to speak Irish … but like most of that cohort I was faking it.’

‘I was about to turn 50 … The future had arrived. My idea of personal ambition had shifted … The Irish language, normally meandering around the edges of my consciousness, suddenly demanded my full attention.’

This is the story of Michael McCaughan’s journey around Ireland and the Irish language. From a surreal start involving dedicated listening to Raidio na Gaeltachta’s death notices, to rediscovering the soul of the language through immersing himself in Phil Lynott’s music - all without becoming a Gaelbore - Coming Home will make you want to follow in his footsteps and strike out in search of the gra.

‘A hugely enjoyable linguistic travelogue that is also a sort of love story: full of passion, lightness, but, also, commitment. McCaughan’s engaging prose is a joy to read. Discover the Sex Pistols’ connection with Cuil Aodha and many another startling fact about the Irish language. This journey towards a homecoming will touch many hearts.‘ Joseph O'Connor