A Journey Into Ireland’s Giants: Myth Meets Science in Local Author’s Book

Colleen Snyder’s self-published book, In Search of Giants: The Quest to Find the Genetic Giants of Northern Ireland, takes readers on an extraordinary journey that spans Irish mythology, genetic research, and deeply personal stories of those living with gigantism.

Both mythical and real, Giants have long been part of Ireland’s history. While folklore celebrates figures like Finn McCool, Snyder’s book reveals that real-life giants are part of our shared human history, with some affected by a rare condition called gigantism.

Gigantism, far from being a mere quirk of extraordinary height, is a severe medical condition often caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland. For those impacted, the journey to diagnosis can take years, with symptoms like debilitating headaches, blindness, and infertility wreaking havoc along the way. Snyder’s book uncovers the haunting realities of this rare condition while celebrating the resilience of those who live with it.

One of the book’s central narratives revolves around a genetic mutation known as AIP, which originated in a small area of Northern Ireland between Lough Neagh and the Sperrin Mountains. This mutation, dating back more than 2,000 years, still affects people today. It’s a story of science meeting legend, as Snyder details how researchers like Professor Márta Korbonits used paleogenetics to link this mutation to the 18th-century Irish giant Charles Byrne. Byrne’s story—one of body-snatching, betrayal, and a skeleton now displayed in London’s Hunterian Museum—adds a macabre layer to the book’s historical exploration.

But In Search of Giants isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a personal quest. Snyder herself is the first person in the United States found to carry the Irish variant of the AIP mutation. Her journey brought her to Northern Ireland, where she collaborated with Brendan Holland, a modern-day giant who has dedicated his life to researching local giant folklore and history.

Readers will also learn about the ongoing efforts to identify others affected by this mutation. Geographic hotspots for the condition extend beyond Northern Ireland, reaching Scotland, Canada, and Australia, as genetic genealogy continues to uncover surprising links.

Through richly detailed storytelling, Snyder brings to life both the mythical and medical giants of Irish history. Each chapter introduces a new story, from the heartbreaking struggles of modern-day patients to the groundbreaking research unlocking the secrets of the past.

In Search of Giants is a celebration of resilience, community, and the enduring power of stories. It’s available now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Snyder’s website, where readers can also find signed copies.

Snyder will appear at the Laurel Ridge Community College Holiday Book Fair on December 4, where she will discuss her book and sign copies.