A curated list of Mike’s favorite books, selected for the impactful life lessons learned or merely the quiet joy of reading. Topics include:

• novels
• Biographies
• stoic philosophy
• humorous materials
• espionage thrillers and whodunits
• military conflicts and history

Each tome’s message is described along with lessons learned to daily implement and apply. The result is a practical resource for readers like me who are seeking informed perspectives and reliable recommendations as we navigate our complex world.

The Immortal Irishman by Timothy Egan

Mike Hennessy’s commentary:

Timothy Egan’s The Immortal Irishman is a fast-paced biography of Thomas Francis Meagher. Meagher was born to wealth and privilege among the Irish gentry but actively protested the cruel British rule, to their chagrin. Tried, convicted of treason, he was ordered transported to Australia for life. He escaped confinement and arrived in New York City where he became a successful journalist. During the Civil War, as a staunch Union supporter, he organized and led the Irish Brigades in some of the most horrific battles of that War, including Fredericksburg where his battalion was decimated.

The psychological impact was devastating. After the war, he was appointed the first territorial secretary of the Montana territories by President Johnson. He is rumored a drunk. The circumstances of his death remain mysterious with theories on the cause ranging from him being drunk and falling off a boat to a cabal of political opponents having him killed. In this age of conspiracy theories, I’ll opt for the cabal of bad guys. The other option doesn’t fit my hero image.

Tim Egan is a great storyteller. I love a good tale, especially if it involves a larger- than-life character. Meagher fills that bill to perfection. The many versions of Thomas Francis Meagher make for a great read. The man never quit regardless of the odds or the opponent. How do you escape Australia? In a small boat!

Egan is criticized for prioritizing narrative clarity over historiographical nuance and readers seeking a scholarly treatment should look elsewhere. Fine! I read the book for entertainment, and I got my money’s worth. Thomas Francis Meagher is now my patron saint of persistence and grit. It’s a great read.