Legendary Irish musician Pierce Turner publishes his debut book Living by the River

Wexford musician Pierce Turner has published his debut book of what have been described as "autobiographical short stories", Living by the River.

Growing up on the Wexford Quay, Turner was inspired by his experiences living across from the River Slaney. As an active community member in the locality, Turner launched his book at the Wexford Library on December 7.

“The best way to read Living by the River is to imagine you’re at a party in the sitting room of Pierce’s house overlooking The Quay,” said Turner’s former band partner Larry Kirwan. “You’ll hear about boarders reluctant to pay their way, Sputnik the warrior dog and his untimely passing, the glory days of Rec-Pho and White’s Barn, Sammy Sinnott’s magic cure for the Rolling Stones, and all the other tales that weave a picture of a magical time when we were young, bulling to get out in the world and leave our mark upon it.”

Having learned his professional chops in a showband, named The Arrows, Turner emigrated to the US, along with Kirwan, where they formed The Major Thionkers, also performing as Turner and Kirwan From Wexford.

Turner began releasing solo music in 1986, with his first album It’s Only a Long Way Across. He has spent much of his illustrious career in the US, working with various luminaries, including composer Philip Glass. He has released 15 albums in all, and has had songs recorded by other artists, including 'Wicklow Hills' and 'Musha God Help Her' by Christy Moore. Christy confirmed huis appreciation of the Wexford artist in his own song 'The Way Pierce Turner Sings'.

More recently, Turner began writing a weekly blog to be distributed to his database of fans. Catching the attention of the Wexford People newspaper, he was invited to write a weekly column called “My World.” After four years of the column, Turner decided to assemble his writing into a book. Living By The River is the result.

"Pierce Turner is one of Ireland’s finest yarn-spinners, a maestro of words and melody with a uniquely rich voice. His stories are as mellifluous as his songs,” said Liam Fay of The Sunday Times. “I really enjoyed Living by the River- very evocative with a nice undertone of creeping dread as morning arrives. I look forward to reading more."

• Readers can purchase Turner’s book here.