Joe Mc Gowan is a native of Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo. Born on the family farm, he worked there in his early years until emigrating to the U.S.A. in the ‘60s.

Shortly after his return to Ireland in the '70's, Joe, becoming keenly aware of the accelerating pace of change in the Irish countryside, decided to record the old lore before it vanished completely. Since that time he has been dedicated to preserving, visually and orally, Ireland’s disappearing traditions and customs. He is now a full-time writer and lecturer. His books, backed by meticulous archival research, are inspired by countless nights spent visiting the older generation and listening to their tales. His short stories, usually cameos of Irish life both past and present, feature frequently in national magazines and on radio. He is also a Heritage Specialist with the Irish National Teachers Organization, ‘Heritage in Schools Scheme’

His publications include:

• In the Shadow of Benbulben (Aeolus 1993)
• Echoes of a Savage Land (Mercier Press 2001)
• Constance Markievicz, the People’s Countess (Aeolus 2003)
• Co. Sligo Famine Book (Aeolus 1997)
• Inishmurray, Gale, Stone and Fire (Aeolus 1997)
• Inishmurray: Island Voices (Aeolus 2004)
• and most recently, co-authored with artist Anne Osborne: Sligo, Land of Destiny (Cottage Publications 2005)

His new book 'Pagan Voices' (Mercier) will be out early in 2007.

Click here to view all our books by Joe McGowan