Tony McCarthy's book gives invaluable advice for anyone setting out on the elusive trail of their ancestors.' — Sunday Press Irish genealogy now attracts unprecedented interest both at home and abroad. Many who try to trace their roots, however, are disappointed. This practical, fact-filled book can turn failure into success. The Irish Roots Guide — offers clear, step-by-step instructions — provides an introduction to each of the important documentary collections — equips you to do your own research in the Irish archives, showing how to avoid pitfalls — adopts a fresh approach to family history, debunks myths, and never forgets that half of our ancestors were women. Whether your research is to be a lifelong hobby or a once-off quest, this book will prove indispensable. 'Even if you never get around to compiling your family tree, there will always be satisfaction in knowing that one day, as a result of this book being in the house, your child or grandchild may do so.' — The Irish Post 'Interestingly written, accurate and well produced.' — The Irish Genealogist 'This is a most useful and elegant book.' — The Sunday Tribune