Some Irish inspiration for your reading and watch lists
Updated: Oct 8
I found out in August 2025 that my husband and I would be moving our family from Toronto, Canada to Belfast, Northern Ireland. What did I know of Northern Ireland? Let me be straight. I didn’t realize that Ireland and Northern Ireland were two separate countries, I just thought it was Ireland!
Important, basic lesson learned, I knew there was plenty more I needed to learn. I started to fill my book pile with Irish authors and my Netflix watchlist with Irish and UK shows. When we actually landed in Belfast in June 2026, I found even more NI authors (thank you Waterstones!) and courtesy of the friendly folks in this country, a few more shows.
If you’re interested in learning more about Ireland and Northern Ireland, here are my picks.
Books
by Laura Anthony
From an Irish author living in Kildare county, this book was recommended to me by a Toronto friend who knew I was moving to NI. An easy read with a powerful story. This book taught me that abortion was not legalized in Ireland until 2019! I had no idea.
by Jan Carson
The brainchild of a Belfast writer, this book caught me off guard because it is an alternate history of Northern Ireland. Very original story and it taught me about the geography of the country! Loughs (pronounced ‘locks’), I’m looking at you.
3) These Days
by Lucy Caldwell
Written by a Northern Irish playwright and novelist, this one taught me about the history of Belfast during WWII. I had no idea how much of the city centre was bombed by Germany.
4) Lazy City
by Rachel Connolly
I will admit, I may be a bit old for this one as it centres around an early-20-something in Belfast who returns home from school after a tragic accident. I couldn’t relate to her promiscuous sex or drinking but it did teach me something about the youth who are raised in Belfast and their perceptions of life.
by Evie Woods
This was actually the first Irish-inspired book I read in the summer of 2025. It’s currently with most of my books in a Toronto storage unit but the story was intriguing and should not be missed. This book gave me insight into the history and mysticism that envelopes the island. The author lives on the west coast of Ireland, the most beautiful part you will ever visit!
Shows
1) Say Nothing
Very, very insightful into understanding the Troubles era of the country. The show is incredibly compelling, well-acted and intense.
2) Derry Girls
My 12yo loved this show too! I actually watched it twice, once before we moved and then again after and I was able to appreciate more of the nuances on the second watch. A fun, light-hearted comedic sitcom of five Catholic teenagers living through the Troubles.
A murder-mystery, comedic show set in and around Northern Ireland following 3 childhood friends, now in their late-30’s, early-40’s trying to solve the mysterious death of a friend. An entertaining watch and fun to listen to their banter.
Many locals have also recommended the show Blue Lights to me but I have not yet been able to watch it. It apparently still films around the Belfast area.
Enjoy your crash course in Irish literature and pop culture!
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