Looking for Jimmy

A Search for Irish America

“[An] exceptionally thoughtful and interesting inquiry into Irish America . . . More a meditation than a history” from the acclaimed author of Dry Bones (The Washington Post).
 
In the hands of historical novelist and speechwriter Peter Quinn, the Irish stereotype of “Paddy” gives way to an image of “Jimmy”—an archetypal Irish American (a composite of Jimmy Cagney and Jimmy Walker) who comes to life as a fast-talking, tough-yet-refined urban American redefining US politics, street culture, religion, and imagination. From immigrating to the United States to modern day politics, Quinn’s vibrant prose weaves together the story of a people that has made an immeasurable contribution to American history and culture.
 
“Entertaining and informative . . . There are portraits of the Irish as politician, cop, priest, teacher, writer. In this deft examination of America’s Irish, Quinn adds color and nostalgia with his tales of growing up and working in the Bronx of another time.” —Publishers Weekly
 
“You don’t have to be Irish or Irish-American to love this book. Whoever you are, you are in it. This is the kind of book you will want to bestow on anyone with, or without, a hyphen in their history.” —Frank McCourt, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of Angela’s Ashes
 
“Well written and researched, showcasing the author’s pride in his Irish Catholic heritage.” —Kirkus Reviews