On the Blanket: The Inside Story of the IRA Prisoners' "Dirty" Protest : Book Review

"On the Blanket: The Inside Story of the IRA Prisoners in Long Kesh" by Tim Pat Coogan is a captivating and enlightening account of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) prisoners held in the infamous Long Kesh prison during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Coogan, a well-respected historian, meticulously traces the background, motivations, and experiences of these prisoners, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of their lives behind bars. Through interviews, personal anecdotes, and extensive research, Coogan sheds light on the harsh conditions faced by these men, their struggle for recognition as political prisoners, and the far-reaching impact of their actions.

The book delves deep into the political and historical context surrounding the Troubles, exploring the origins of the IRA's armed struggle and the British government's response in Northern Ireland. Coogan not only analyzes the prisoners' beliefs and the reasoning behind their actions, but also examines the intricate relationship between the Protestant and Catholic communities, uncovering the deep-seated divisions and animosity that fueled the conflict.

Coogan's writing style is both engaging and informative, seamlessly weaving personal stories with a broader analysis of the political and social dynamics of the era. His portrayal of the prisoners is multi-faceted, allowing readers to comprehend their motivations and grasp the consequences of their actions, while simultaneously shedding light on the brutality and human rights violations they endured within the prison system.

"On the Blanket" vividly paints a sobering picture of the day-to-day life inside Long Kesh, revealing the physical and psychological toll it took on the prisoners. Coogan provides a meticulous account of the blanket protest, during which prisoners refused to wear prison uniforms, as well as the subsequent hunger strikes that resulted in the deaths of several inmates, most notably Bobby Sands. These events are presented with sensitivity, offering a balanced perspective on the motivations and ramifications of these actions.

Overall, "On the Blanket" is a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of the experiences of IRA prisoners in Long Kesh. Coogan's extensive research and adept storytelling make this book essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the Troubles, the political climate of Northern Ireland, and the personal sacrifices made by those involved in the conflict.

What are readers saying?

"On the Blanket" by Tim Pat Coogan is a thought-provoking non-fiction book that explores the complex and controversial history of the Northern Ireland Troubles. With extensive research and interviews, Coogan delves into the experiences and perspectives of Republican prisoners who took part in the "dirty protest" and hunger strikes while incarcerated in the Maze prison.

Critics and readers alike praise "On the Blanket" for Coogan's meticulous attention to detail and insightful analysis of the Troubles. They appreciate how he provides a comprehensive account of the events surrounding the blanket protest and hunger strikes, shedding light on the political and social motivations that drove the Republican prisoners.

Coogan's ability to present multiple viewpoints and contextualize the complexity of the Northern Ireland conflict is widely acclaimed. Reviewers commend his balanced approach, noting that he avoids taking sides and presents information objectively, allowing readers to form their own conclusions.

The book's engaging and accessible writing style is also highly regarded. Readers find Coogan's prose to be clear, concise, and informative, enabling them to grasp the intricacies of the history without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, Coogan incorporates personal anecdotes and stories from those involved, adding a human element to the narrative.

A common sentiment in the reviews is the emotional impact of "On the Blanket." Many readers express how the book evokes empathy and deepens their understanding of the suffering endured by the Republican prisoners, as well as the broader implications of the Troubles on Irish society.

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