Darach MacDonald's Tóchar is above all a readable book. It can be read as a whole, in a sitting or two. Equally, as each chapter is self-contained, it can be picked up from time to time.

Tóchar can be read at several levels. In the book, MacDonald describes his walking of 10 ancient pilgrim paths across Ireland. Thus the book is a guide to the various paths. Several of the paths are now little-known, such as An Slí Mór in the Midlands and St Declan's Way in Waterford and Tipperary. MacDonald's book has made me want to walk at least those two.

Tóchar also gives a new perspective on several well-known pilgrimages, presenting up paths that are little known. Croagh Patrick in Mayo is one of Ireland's most popular pilgrimages. MacDonald approaches it from the east, while the ascent from the west is best known. He walks from Ballintubber Abbey, as ancient pilgrims did. Lough Derg in Donegal is another very well-known pilgrimage. MacDonald takes us round the ancient pilgrim path on the south side of the Lough. Some sacred sites it passes pre-date Christianity.

The book reminds us how much of Ireland's heritage is in danger of wilting away. MacDonald contributes to keeping the Irish people in touch with their traditions and roots. Because of their nature, preservation of pilgrim paths - and pilgrimages - is not prioritised.

The book is also a journey round Ireland, covering all provinces. During that journey MacDonals meets a variety of people. Those meetings throw light on the complexities of Irish society.

However, the journey is not just physical but personal. In the journey, MacDonald wrestles with his own spirituality. Born a Catholic, his relationship with that Church has been fragile. The journey gives him a deeper connection with his spirituality. The description of how he makes that connection gets the reader to know him as a person.

Tóchar is published by New Island Books, price £12.99