This is probably the most complete and authoritive work on the IRA. It has been recommended as pretty much standard reading for anyone studying the subject. The latest edition of this book is the culmination of almost 2 decades of exhaustive research entailing many updates, and not only this, but Coogan writes in a straightforward no-nonsense manner which makes this hefty tome easy to read and understand. Put simply, no bookshelf of any self-appreciating student of politics should be without it.