Hitching for Hope

‘Ireland went through its Celtic Tiger phase, all consumerism and growth. And then it crashed. In the aftermath, Ruairí McKiernan found that, like humans everywhere, what people really yearned for was community and connection, even if they’d almost forgotten how any of that worked. This is a tale that will resonate all over the world.’—Bill McKibben, author of Wandering Home

‘Making a reader stop and think is something we should all want to achieve, and Ruairí McKiernan succeeds. Ordinary people and their lived experiences are at the heart of this book. Hitching for Hope demonstrates that, despite a diversity of backgrounds, we all want the same things: to find peace, to flourish and to help our families and communities thrive.’—Lynn Ruane, Independent Senator; activist; author of People Like Me

‘After travelling around Ireland and listening rather than speaking, McKiernan has produced a personal diary, a guided tour of his native country and an Irish Canterbury Tales for the twenty-first century. Hitching for Hope is a package of hope itself, full of kindness, political observations and of course the craic. Irish at its core and international in its search for optimism and communal involvement, it’s an easy and uplifting read.’—Peggy Seeger, singer-songwriter; author of First Time Ever

 

‘Hitchhiking is the ultimate act of surrender and vulnerability where one must depend on the kindness of strangers and one’s own inner patience. At a time of social and ecological transition, McKiernan opens himself to the road, offering up a moving window into the fears, dreams, and possibilities of the Irish land and people. More transporting than a travelogue, Hitching for Hope is a tale full of serendipitous encounters and the spirit of Ireland’s byways.’—Chuck Collins, Institute for Policy Studies; author of Born on Third Base

‘In this pilgrimage around modern Ireland, Ruairí takes us to the people—to the nation’s beating heart. At times we glimpse the light that, since the old Dark Ages, has been Ireland’s gift to a hungry world.’—Alastair McIntosh, author of Soil and Soul and Poacher’s Pilgrimage

‘Listening requires focus, attention, and awareness—skills that Ruairí has perfected. He listens to so many different perspectives without reacting or debating, and opens his mind and heart to each of them. I highly recommend this book. I guarantee that you will not be able to put it down.’—Frances Black, Independent Senator; singer; founder of RISE Foundation

‘Funny, philosophical, and moving, this book illuminates a lesser-seen map of a better and kinder humanity. In an age of cynicism and despair, the stories and insights Ruairí unveils are exactly the medicine we need to wake up and remember who we really are. Whether or not it persuades you to hitchhike to your next business meeting, this book will certainly remind you that people—and the future—may not be as scary as you thought.’—Amanda Palmer, singer-songwriter; author of The Art of Asking

‘Ruairí McKiernan hitchhikes through Ireland’s soul—its heartbeat—to bring us an authentic and utterly compelling narrative. Think McCarthy’s Bar for the socially conscious. An important and enjoyable read from a trusted voice.’—Brian O’Connell, journalist; author of The Personals

‘An epic journey into the hearts and minds of Ireland. Powerful and insightful.’—Damien Dempsey, folk singer

‘Burnt out from his work as a community organizer, Ruairí McKiernan decided to hit the road. He stuck out his thumb—and his neck, too—hoping to learn something about himself and his country. A wholehearted testament to the power of deep listening and a beautiful glimpse into the Irish spirit, Hitching for Hope tells the story of his journey. There is cause for hope in these dark times, and Ruairí found it in the people.’—Andrew Forsthoefel, author of Walking to Listen