This was a fun read with stories by celebrities or other non-authors. I enjoyed it

As the title would suggest, readers are introduced to nine people that immigrated from Ireland to America and left an impression on the landscape of their chosen country. However, as time has gone by some of their names( and statues) have been overlooked. Most of the selected writers( Pierce Brosnan, Rosie O' Donnell, Michael Moore ,Mark Shriver etc) interweave their own narratives with that of the featured subject. Occassionally, I thought this worked really well in understanding why that attachment to that particular person was so strong, but sometimes I was bored.

I loved hearing from other voices in this work and was grateful for the diversity of opinions. I learned a lot and will incorporate this into my classes.

If you want to read about seemingly ordinary Irish immigrants who made extraordinary differences in the lives of many people by their actions and deeds, then this book will not disappoint you. The stories will leave you inspired by their accomplishments, dedication, and selfless service to their adopted homeland.
I was especially impressed by the story of Private Albert J. Cashier, who spent three years of fighting for the 95th Regiment during the Civil War. Private Cashier was a courageous and dedicated soldier. Private Cashier was also born Jennie Irene Hodgers. Yes, she served her country well fighting alongside male soldiers. The stories of the other eight lives are just as compelling.
Many of the stories were also interspersed with the author’s own personal tidbits which made the stories even more interesting and engaging. Needless to say, this book is highly recommended.