This Book Deserves a Place in the Annals of Irish History - Rated 
Tim Pat Coogan's account of Michael Collins' life is not just a biography ; it is a unique journey through the life and times of a great Irish leader. This book deserves a place in the annals of Irish history.
Coogan painstakingly takes the time to explain how Collins lived, what motivated him and, where there are gaps in historical evidence, constructs balanced, informed reasons for his proposed closure of some of those gaps.
Each page is filled with the level of detail that bears testimony to tireless research, driven by the desire to tell the truth.
Michael Collins is portrayed as the complex character that he was, continually adapting to the changing political environment in which he found himself ; more than holding his own with the best in very diverse circumstances.
Coogan's account of the dilemmas facing Collins during the Treaty negotiations is masterful in capturing the tortured humanity of the man forced to make impossible choices.
The referencing and attention to detail are second to none.
Essential reading for anyone wishing to understand Michael Collins.
Terroist or Freedom Fighter, Soldier or Politician - Rated 
Michael Collins by Tim Pat Coogan is interesting book dealing with one of modern Ireland's legendary figures. It is a very in-depth book especially when you consider that Michael Collins died in his early thirties and therefore I believe that anybody interested in finding out about this man will not be disappointed. However, it does have some flaws, firstly, the style of writing is at first a little difficult and needs perservering with. Secondly, the use of English when the term British is more appropriate can be annoying and finally, it does fit at times into the usual trend you find in books about revolutionaries who died young that what they did and what they could have achieved can be overplayed. Nevertheless it is a good book about this pivotal figure in modern Irish history.
Michael Collins by Tim Pat Coogan - Rated
Taken from a historical viewpoint, Michael Collins, is arguably Ireland's most complex figure. His death at the age of 31 adds to the enigma but far from the version we see in Neil Jordan's enjoyable if somewhat glossed biopic of Irelands former Commander in Chief,we are given a very comprehensive account of whom Tim Pat Coogan describes as Ireland's greatest nationalist. Those reading about Collins or indeed this period of Irish history for the first time should familiarize themselves with the intricacies of the Irish question in this period for they were very complex. At the heart of the issue was Ireland's quest for total independence. Collins it is revealed saw the Anglo Irish treaty as a stepping stone but his opponents saw it as a sell out. It would lead to a country divided, the greatest tragedy of a very tragic history, but Tim Pat Coogan deals with the subject very sensitively. The complex issues involved means that the language at times is a bit heavy handed but overall this is a wonderful book which challenges the reader.
concise history - Rated 
This books as much a review of the treaty than a blow by blow account of collin's life
crowded with facts it quickly swamps the reader and a feeling of when does the interesting bit begin washes over
obivously the last section provides this with the ambush
it left me with feeling that those who live by the sword often die of it
collins was no saint - his death may even have saved lives up north who knows
Best book ever likely to be written on M. Collins - Rated
Tim Pat Coogan's book is a triumph of intelligence, research and dedication over the romantic rose tinted blindness of others who have tackled this subject. He presents the man as a whole being not an empty hero on a pedestal. This is a man in his worst and best moments. Coogan's style of writing is a delight to behold. This is a man who never uses over blown emotion and empty cliche. He absorbs you into the subject. I have had both the delight and misfortute to read many books on Michael Collins and this is by far the best. It towers head and shoulders above all others. Even Margery Forster's 'Lost Leader' can't capture the man or the era in this honest, direct and evocative manner. If you enjoy twentifth century history then buy this book. Buy this book if you want the undiluted truth. Most of all buy this book if you want to read a biographical masterpiece.
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