“A tale that is not told dies.” So say the old Irish storytellers. How much better when the story, like this one about the fighting prince of Donegal, is true! It is 1587 and Queen Elizabeth plans to bring Ireland under her iron rule. Only one thing is stopping her: Warrior queen Ineen Duive and her young son, Hugh Roe O’Donnell. Carefree and proud, young Hugh grows up quickly after he is betrayed to the English and taken to Birmingham Tower as a hostage. Can he escape? If so, can he escape in time to aid the Irish struggle against the English? Facts as exciting as fiction abound in this authentic portrayal of a glorious moment in Irish history.

“Here’s another one of those ‘They could make it into a movie!’ books that keeps you always wanting to read just one more chapter. Red Hugh was a true champion for Irish liberty from Queen Elizabeth’s constricting reign in the late 1580’s and beyond. Hugh’s capture, imprisonment, and escape from the Dublin Castle; his triumph over a blizzard and frostbite; his dramatic rescue of his family’s castle; his conflict with the evil Captain Leeds; and his inexhaustible love for Ireland make this a wonderful read-aloud book for the entire family. You learn an astonishing amount of Irish geography and culture while relishing this true adventure, as well.”   –The Book Peddler (Kris & Judy Wilcox)