John A. Ryan Knihy

In south Kilkenny, where Duiske stream joins the river Barrow at Graiguenamanagh, lies one of Ireland's many Norman-Cistercian abbeys. Song of Duiske is a novella set amongst this monastic community in the year 1304, a century after the abbey's foundation. It evokes the textures and rhythms of a medieval religious settlement, its peaceful routines as well as occasional trials, and celebrates with quiet lyricism the seasons and their solaces, 'the open sky, the fields and the woods'.

Monsignor John Augustine Ryan played a pivotal role in shaping Catholic social teaching during a transformative period in early twentieth-century America. His contributions as a moral theologian and social justice advocate emerged against the backdrop of significant societal changes, including mass immigration, the emancipation of slaves, and the industrial revolution. Ryan's work reflects the Church's response to the pressing need for social reform and highlights his commitment to addressing the moral implications of these developments.