Arse to the Wind is an evocative memoir by Mayo native Owen Goonan that transports readers to the windswept landscape of Geesala on Ireland’s west coast. Growing up among rolling green fields, expansive boglands, deserted beaches, and the ever-present Atlantic Ocean, Goonan recounts his childhood with warmth, wit, and remarkable honesty. His memories paint a vivid portrait of rural Ireland before the arrival of modern technology and changing lifestyles transformed everyday life.

With affection and humour, Goonan recalls a childhood where simple pleasures brought lasting happiness. From improvised toys and long summer adventures to neighbourly gatherings, storytelling, music, and community traditions, he captures the resilience and resourcefulness of families who found joy despite modest means. He also reflects on the powerful influence of the Church, the realities of rural education, the Irish language, and the customs that shaped his upbringing, offering an authentic glimpse into a generation’s shared experiences.

More than a personal memoir, Arse to the Wind is a celebration of Ireland’s cultural heritage and the enduring values of family, community, and belonging. Blending nostalgia with thoughtful reflection, Owen Goonan invites readers to revisit a slower, simpler era while exploring the experiences that shaped his own life. Rich in local colour and heartfelt storytelling, this is an engaging read for anyone interested in Irish memoirs, rural history, or the traditions of the west of Ireland.