Book Review by Jean_F

Reflections on Life Well Lived

The Irish Goodbye is a collection of short to extremely brief writings by former poet laureate of Mississippi Beth Ann Fennelly. It ranges from quick thoughts on married life (a cracked knee when presenting a 25th anniversary ring to folded oven mitts), to contemplating friendships old and fresh, to mourning the sudden death of a sister, to facing the deaths of other family and friends. Much space is devoted to Fennelly's recollections of her sister and the deep hole she has left in Fennelly's life. Mixed with the sadness and the wondering, there is also humor and wit.

I found this book a delight. As it progresses, Fennelly removes a few more layers and candidly exposes more of herself. Her prose is succinct and pithy and often sparkles. She makes you smile as you admire her adept turn of phrase. Recommended for book clubs looking for a short powerful punch!

(11/24/25)