This story is an attempt to understand what drove men to build a monastery on a near vertical pillar of rock off the coast of Ireland. The author has sought to use imagination to bring to life the men who were driven to seek this kind of complete isolation. More than hermits, more than any other monks, they chose a life filled with hardship, back-breaking labour and danger. Those results of their efforts that remain are among the best preserved buildings from the period. The Skellig monastery is a world heritage site and rightly so. It is unique and a thrilling place to visit. Even if you don't feel up to the massive climb and a sea-tossed journey by boat, you can still get a feel for the place in the visitor centre at Valencia.