Tommy Tiernan launches uncle’s ‘Tell Tale Townie’ book
There was a warm convivial atmosphere amongst the large crowd of Athlonians, and others from further afield, at the Shamrock Lodge Hotel for the launch of John Tiernan’s new book of short stories, ‘Tell Tale Townie’, a humorous account of 1950s life in Athlone and surrounds.
Comedian, TV presenter and actor Tommy Tiernan was the star attraction. Others who spoke on the night were Patsy McGarry and Gearóid O’Brien
The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Seán Kilbride.
The former Mayo football legend spoke of the enjoyment and belly laughs he derived from the book. He introduced Gearóid O’Brien, now retired Westmeath County Librarian who spoke of his long-time friendship with John and how in the 1970s while attempting to fish on the inner lakes and awaiting fish to bite, they had collaborated in word games and crafting of synonyms.
The official launch was performed by John’s nephew, Tommy Tiernan, who addressed the estimated 300 attendees.
Tommy spoke of his time, attending school in Athlone and the friends he had encountered. He spoke of the humour and love of life that came across through the book and read one funny extract from the book.
Patsy McGarry, Irish Times journalist and author whose current publication is ‘Well, Holy God’ endorsed the book. He spoke of the humour and evocation of nostalgia in Tell Tale Townie.
The author then addressed the gathering and spoke of the process and the tasks involved in bringing his manuscript through to publication.
He thanked a host of people who had ‘lifted him through the impasses of the unknown’ to bring the book to fruition. Finally, Seán Kilbride urged that not only was the book funny and entertaining, but that it would also make a great Christmas present.
The book retails at €15 and the proceeds are being donated to the UNICEF Gaza/Lebanon Children’s Fund.
The book is available at a growing list of local outlets including: The Athlone Bookshop at the Village Lloyd’s Lane/Burgesses; Mulligan’s, Roscommon Road; Dooley’s Fruit & Vegetables, Magazine Road; Fernhill Garden Centre, Cornamagh; Radiant, Beauty Clinic, Hodson Bay; Paul Whyte’s Pharmacy, Clonbrusk. Salmon’s Dept Store, Ballinasloe; SuperValu, Monksland; Kennedy’s Filling Station, Monksland; St Brigid’s GAA Club, Kiltoom.