This book is a long-overdue celebration of the life and work of an exceptional man. It presents a cross-section from Flanagan’s very large body of work (over 400 pieces) over a forty-year period, including both religious and secular works. It illustrates his talent for working in various media, especially stone and wood, and high­lights his sympathetic depiction of the human form. As well as labouring in his own personal realm as a sculptor, Henry Flanagan taught at Newbridge College in Co Kildare.

He was also involved in many extra-curricular activities, organising the Arts and Crafts Club, the school choir, and an adult group called the Aquinas Singers. With this range of endeavour, it is easy to see how his influence as an artist and as a man of culture touched many people.