The Goodness of Guinness: A Loving History of the Brewery, It's People, and the City of Dublin

A third-generation employee of Guinness, Corcoran delivers an insider account of the company's St. James Gate compound in Dublin that's also a love letter, both fascinating and heartwarming. Rarely critical of the company (unions are only briefly discussed), Corcoran focuses on the more charming aspects of working at the brewery, describing everything from the cafeteria to ""The Taps,"" locations scattered throughout the brewery that once enabled workers to sample their wares (workers now receive a case of beer every two weeks in lieu of the suggested two pints per day). Such minutiae, along with revelations about the company's remarkably progressive labor policies at the turn of the century, will keep readers smiling while longing for a pint. Details like the personnel structure, on-site concerts and social clubs like the Guinness Drama Group will probably bore those without ties to the brewery, but tales of the firm's generosity (including a loan system the company instituted during the Great Depression) are laudable and inspiring. Those who appreciate the legendary stout will find plenty more reasons to tip one back, but teetotalers interested in the business will appreciate the history as well.