A third option could be 'Sgéaltaíocht an tSamhraidh' which contains short stories. This is great for beginners as the short story format allows for easier digestion of the language and the stories often have simple yet engaging plots that can introduce readers to the beauty of the Irish language.
A good starting point could be 'Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha' by Roddy Doyle. It's written in a way that's accessible for new readers to Irish literature. The story follows a young boy's experiences growing up in Ireland. 'The Collected Stories of William Trevor' is also suitable. His stories are often short and give a great insight into different aspects of Irish life. And 'Brooklyn' by Colm Tóibín is not too difficult. It tells an engaging story about an Irish immigrant in America, which can also give you a sense of Irish - American connections.
Another great Irish language novel is 'Táin Bó Cúailnge'. It is an epic tale from Irish mythology, filled with heroic deeds, battles, and complex characters. This novel is a significant part of Irish literary heritage and has influenced many subsequent works in Irish literature. It not only showcases the richness of the Irish language but also the depth of the country's ancient stories.
There is also 'Fionn: Mac Cumhaill and the Fenian Cycle'. This graphic novel delves into the rich Irish mythology, bringing the tales of Fionn Mac Cumhaill to life with vivid illustrations. It's a great way to explore Irish heritage and language at the same time.
For beginners, 'Yr Arwr' could be a good start. Its story is relatively easy to follow and the language is not overly complex, which can help new learners get a feel for the Welsh language in a literary context.
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry. It has simple language but profound themes. It's about a little prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting different characters, and it's full of beautiful illustrations that can help beginners understand the story better.
If you're a beginner, I'd recommend 'The Van' by Roddy Doyle. It continues the story of some of the characters from 'The Snapper' and has that same engaging, down - to - earth Irish feel. 'Ella Minnow Pea' by Mark Dunn is an interesting Irish - inspired book that's not too difficult to get into. It has a unique concept. Also, 'The Butcher Boy' by Patrick McCabe. It's a bit dark but very well - written and gives a view into Irish rural life.
For beginners, 'Asterix' is a great choice. The language used is not overly complex, and the humor in the stories makes it engaging. The pictures are very helpful in understanding the context. Plus, there are many volumes so you can explore different adventures.
A good beginner - friendly Spanish - language graphic novel is 'Zipi y Zape'. It has simple dialogues and the humor in it is easy to catch. The two main characters, Zipi and Zape, get into all sorts of silly situations. This can make learning Spanish through the graphic novel an enjoyable experience. 'Mortadelo y Filemón' is also a great pick. It has been around for a long time and is full of comical situations and not - too - difficult Spanish.
For beginners, 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon can be a good choice. Although it's not solely focused on Ireland, it has strong Irish - related elements in its historical and cultural backdrop. The love story between the main characters is intense and the writing style is very engaging. Also, 'The Light Between Oceans' by M. L. Stedman is worth reading. It has Irish roots in the characters' backstories and the love story is both poignant and easy to get into.
One of the best Irish novels is 'Ulysses' by James Joyce. It's a complex and highly regarded work that delves deep into the human psyche and the events of a day in Dublin. Another great one is 'Angela's Ashes' by Frank McCourt. It's a memoir - style novel that tells a poignant and often heart - wrenching story of growing up in poverty in Ireland. Also, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde, though Wilde was Irish but the novel is set in England, is a classic that explores themes of beauty, morality and decay.