A Lurgan Photo in my Heart Book by Philomena Burns Breen

Philomena Burns Breen is a daughter of Lurgan and its history , which shed finds so fascinating and beauty have been the inspiration for many of the poems in this book. As a child of linen weavers, Philomena is steeped in the traditions of Lurgan and dedicated one poem to her weaver mother. Stories told by her dad, and trips as a child with her beloved grandad, enthralled the young Philomena, and their threads weave their way through this tapestry of Philomena’s memories of her home town. Drawing inspiration from such as Pádraig Colum, Philomena finds expression through her poetry of a lovingly remembered past, tinged though it is with tragedies such as the loss of her sister Marion. But there are times too, such as the birth of twins, grandchildren, now old enough to have works of their own included here too.

Several illustrations are by Philomena, who loves drawing in pastels, and she also included some family photos of Lurgan in this, a book to be savored by all who love the Lurgan and the country of today or yesterday.