Mark J. Curran Books

Mick O'Brien returns to Abilene, Kansas, as a college graduate and junior college instructor, navigating life alongside his girlfriend Mariah Palafox, an English professor. Their deepening relationship includes visits to her family and summer travels in Mexico and Spain, intertwined with their Irish and Jewish heritage. As Mick immerses himself in teaching and researching the town's history, he faces escalating dangers from local criminals and KKK activists, threatening the safety of Abilene and its residents.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Colombia, this adventure travel narrative captures exhilarating experiences and unexpected challenges. The author shares thrilling escapades through lush landscapes and bustling cities, highlighting the rich culture and diverse environments. Moments of mayhem showcase both the beauty and unpredictability of travel, offering readers a glimpse into the heart of Colombia's adventurous spirit. Engaging anecdotes and vivid descriptions bring the journey to life, making it a compelling read for thrill-seekers and travel enthusiasts alike.

Set against the backdrop of Brazil's political turmoil in 1984, the narrative follows Professor Mike Gaherty as he resumes his research and reporting after a 13-year hiatus imposed by censorship. Tasked with covering the "Direct Elections Now" movement for the New York Times, he navigates old friendships, rekindles ties with musician Chico Buarque, and updates his studies on "Literatura de Cordel." Amidst the watchful eyes of the DOPS security agency, Mike's journey intertwines with Brazilian culture, nostalgia, and the complexities of past romantic entanglements.

Exploring the world of adventure travel, this book delves into the collaboration between travelers and local communities. It highlights the importance of sustainable tourism and how partnerships can enhance the travel experience while benefiting the environment and local economies. Through engaging narratives and practical insights, readers are encouraged to embrace responsible travel practices that foster cultural exchange and environmental stewardship.

The narrative delves into Professor Mike Gaherty's experiences in Brazil, focusing on his entry into the Portuguese-Brazilian academic scene during a significant international congress. His journey intertwines with the renowned singer-composer Chico Buarque de Hollanda, highlighting their collaboration amidst Brazil's censorship struggles. As Mike participates in concerts and LP recordings, he faces challenges from the military regime's enforcement agency, adding tension to his adventures. Additionally, his interactions with captivating carioca women introduce both excitement and complexity to his bachelor life.

The narrative follows Professor Mike O'Brien and his wife, Professor Mariah Palafox O'Brien, as they navigate life in Abilene while working on a history project and preparing for a Fulbright trip to Brazil in 1971. The couple explores cultural intersections, with Mike discussing Abilene's cowboy history and Mariah focusing on American literature classics. Their journey introduces them to notable figures in military and literature, while their diverse heritages add depth to their experiences. The book intertwines personal growth with rich cultural exploration.

Focusing on the author's extensive body of work, this compilation chronicles Professor Curran's writings, spanning academic books, cultural texts, and fiction experiments. Each volume features a full-color cover image and offers insights into the creation process, detailing the timeline, motivations, and challenges faced in publishing. The conversational narrative invites both academics and aspiring writers to connect with the author's experiences, making it an engaging exploration of the writing and publishing journey.

Set against the backdrop of Brazil in 1972, the narrative follows Professor Mike Gaherty as he embarks on an adventure as a Cultural Speaker for a small ship expedition. The journey explores Brazil's rich nature, history, and culture, making significant stops in cities like Manaus, Recife, and Rio de Janeiro. Amidst the political tensions of the Military Regime, Mike builds bonds with the crew and sparks a romantic connection with Amy, the Assistant Adventure Leader. The story promises surprises and a vibrant portrayal of Brazil's past.

Focusing on Brazil's "Literatura de Cordel," this book provides an in-depth introduction to the Mark J. Curran Collection housed at Tulane University. It chronicles the assembly of the collection, highlighting primary sources, notable poets, and the traditional stands that sold broadsides from the mid-1960s to 2013. The narrative is enriched with photographs and brief biographies of key figures in the cordel tradition. Additionally, the second part includes comprehensive lists of broadsides and secondary sources, making it an essential resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike.

Set against the backdrop of Guatemala's rich Maya heritage, two adventurers, Professor Mike Gaherty and AT Leader Amy Carrier, explore key locations like Antigua and Tikal while researching potential travel trips. Their journey highlights the resilience of the Maya people amidst challenges following the 1976 earthquake and ongoing political unrest. As they delve into the intertwined histories and cultures of the region, they encounter unexpected dangers and must navigate tough choices that could impact future travel plans.

Focusing on the influential poet Leandro Gomes de Barros, this bilingual anthology showcases selected works and offers insights into the "Literatura de Cordel," a unique Brazilian literary form. Professor Curran revisits his early research from the 1960s, exploring themes such as politics, culture, and societal changes in Brazil. The book includes commentary on Barros's contributions and the oral poetic traditions of the time, highlighting the challenges and joys of translating his work into English.

Exploring the complexities of friendship and loyalty, this novel delves into the lives of two individuals whose paths intertwine in unexpected ways. As they navigate personal struggles and societal challenges, their bond is tested by external pressures and internal conflicts. Themes of resilience and the impact of choices are woven throughout the narrative, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience. The characters' journey is both relatable and thought-provoking, inviting readers to consider the depth of relationships and the consequences of their actions.

Focusing on the fulfillment of dreams, this narrative follows Mike O'Brien and Mariah Palafox as they achieve their goals of graduate education and embark on travels and research in Mexico. Upon returning to Abilene, they encounter new adventures that enrich their lives. This third installment in the series weaves fictionalized elements with historical context, continuing the journey inspired by Mark Curran's autobiography.

Set in Pre-Columbian Mexico, the story follows Professor Mike Gaherty and his colleague-girlfriend Amy Carrier as they embark on a research trip for a potential Adventure Travel expedition. Their journey reveals unexpected challenges, including opposition to foreign tourism and the lingering influence of ancient gods and civilizations. As they navigate the complexities of their adventure, they confront both the beauty and the perils of the land, enriching their understanding of Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

Set against the backdrop of post-Salazar and post-Franco eras, this historical fiction follows Professor Mike Gaherty and his assistant, Amy Carrier, as they navigate the rich landscapes of Portugal and Spain. The narrative explores the rivalry between the two nations through their monuments, literary figures, and culinary delights. As the diverse group of adventurers encounters travel challenges and controversies, the story highlights the complexities of cultural exchange and the thrill of exploration.