The Irishman Who Ran for England

Jim Hogan was born in Limerick in 1933, but was abandoned as a child. Through the kindness of others, Hogan went on to become a championship runner, whose best years were spent running for England, where he moved in the 1960s. Hogan's life story - and specifically his decision to run for his adopted country - is explored in "The Irishman Who Ran for England," which features an enlightening preface by David Bedford, who directs the London Marathon.

Price: $28.95

Pages: 157

Publisher: Currach Press-Dufour

Emerald Odyssey: In Search of the Gods of Golf in Ireland

For the Irish golf lover in your life, "Emerald Odyssey: In Search of the Gods of Golf in Ireland" by Paul J. Zingg is a wonderful gift. This book is a meditation on a notoriously difficult yet addictive game, complete with compelling photos and anecdotes of Ireland and golf from a wide range of people - newsmen, poets, historians and, oh yes, golfers.

Price: $36.95

Pages: 191

Publisher: Collins Press-Dufour

Netherland

Finally, Joseph O'Neill's celebrated novel "Netherland" gave cricket new attention in the U.S. Ireland's 2007 performance at the Cricket World Cup did the same a bit earlier. Now, the team's achievements have been captured in vivid photos and compelling writing in Ed Leahy's "Green Wickets: Ireland's Adventures at the 2007 Cricket World Cup."

Price: $48.95

Pages: 176

Publisher: Liberties-Dufour