The Claddagh Ring - Malachy McCourt

Ireland's Cherished Symbol of Friendship, Loyalty and Love Paperback, 160 pp. 

In his easygoing style and with a loving touch, McCourt explores the mystery, telling how the ring shows whether a person's heart is spoken for, and gives a bit of history about the wearing of rings in general. A vivid tour of the legends, lore and present-day status of the timeless symbol of the heart, the head and the hands, worn by millions around the world. 

Drawing on a vast knowledge of Irish history and lore, this popular author provides charming anecdotes, folk tales, and modern tales in a story in which history and myth intersect, and whose origin has been passionately debated.