The Irish Writers Handbook 2025 is launched, coinciding with Irish Book Week, a national tribute to Irish bookstores, authors, poets, illustrators, and Irish literature that takes place from 19th to 26th October. The new, revised Handbook gathers insights and guidance from over 60 professionals in the industry. It also serves as a thorough, current resource of contacts and details for all aspects of the Irish publishing industry, including writing services, festivals, resources and competitions.
Various contributors to the Handbook have provided book recommendations for Irish Book Week and named their preferred bookstore. They also shared a snippet of what they cover in The Irish Writers Handbook 2025.
An interactive session featuring some of the contributors from The Irish Writers Handbook is scheduled to be held at the Chapters Bookstore in Dublin, on Saturday, 19th October at midday. The Handbook will be available in all reputable bookstores from the same date.
One of the contributors, Donal Ryan, recommends ‘Plainsong’ by Kent Haruf. According to him, it is an uplifting, gentle novel that embodies faith in human decency while also being an absolute page-turner. Ryan holds a strong connection to a few bookstores, particularly the Nenagh Bookshop, managed by John and Catherine Ryan, where he considers his home away from home. It has been the launch place for most of his books and his mother enjoys particular recognition there, even when denying resemblances to the Queen of Dirt Island! Ryan’s contribution to the handbook emphasises the profound power of reading to broaden our perspective instead of merely affirming our biases.
Contributor credit: Olivia Fitzsimons.
“The Housekeeper and the Professor,” a novel by Yoko Ogawa, was one that I discovered after a fellow writer’s suggestion led me to seek out her work through a New Yorker fiction podcast. This podcast had a recording of Ogawa’s piece, “The Cafeteria in the Evening and a Pool in the Rain,” a narrative which quickly fascinated me, stirring in me an unquenchable fascination for all of Ogawa’s works. The last few moments shared with my ailing mother were highlighted by reading Ogawa’s novel to her, providing much-needed tranquility in our unsettling surroundings. The subtle and delicate rhythm of the language engaged us, especially the rich illustrative relating of the housekeeper, her son Root, and their interactions with the mathematics professor. The prose offered an escape from the sterile environment, recapturing a familiar sense of homeliness reminiscent of childhood evenings filled with story reading. Consequently, to me, Ogawa’s literary pieces will forever be cherished treasures.
When in need of mature literature, I frequent bookshops such as Books Upstairs and Hodges in Dublin. However, for children’s books, I recommend exploring Halfway Up The Stairs, an unbelievable source based in my hometown of Greystones. As a time-strapped aunt to a large brood of nieces and nephews, I often turn to this bookshop to satisfy their reading obsessions. Besides, my sons thoroughly enjoy their subscription service, and I appreciate the book suggestions they offer based on a child’s particular interests. With a commendable emphasis on Irish children’s and YA authors, this shop provides a truly joyous experience.
Regarding my contribution to the handbook: My aim while recounting my initial experience was to share all the knowledge I had gathered, everything that could have been of help if I had known it before, and the lessons learnt throughout the journey. Because publishing a book, regardless of the outcome, is intimidating and can make even the most self-assured individual feel exposed. A guidebook such as this would have been an incredible aid to me and my colleagues and could have spared us from many difficulties. Therefore, I highly suggest purchasing the book for yourself or for acquaintances who’ve expressed an interest in writing. It offers invaluable advice, support, and motivation for every phase of the process.
– Danielle McLaughlin”
I’ve recently immersed myself in the novel Our London Lives by Christine Dwyer Hickey and it was absolutely delightful. The book boasts of such invigorating and tangible characters, it almost feels as though you’ve known them your whole life.
Waterstones, situated on Patrick Street in Cork, has essentially become a second home to me. The staff are not just exceedingly accommodating and kind-hearted, but also possess a distinctive talent in endorsing local authors. In particular, John Breen deserves special recognition for his legendary status!
An advice to those writers who are experiencing a wave of rejections: persevere. Besides, if you haven’t engaged with Jean Rhys’ work, you surely are missing out on something extraordinary.
At present, I’m enjoyably engaged with the exceptional book She Said penned by Meghan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, the reputable New York Times journalists who unravelled the Harvey Weinstein scandal. I am also eagerly anticipating my dive into Catherine Sanz’s latest book Drama Drives Interest, focused on the Web Summit and Paddy Cosgrave.
The Rathfarnham Bookshop and The Village Bookshop in Terenure are my local sanctuaries, both run by enthusiastic owners and assisted by obliging staff. These quaint bookstores are a favourite destination for both me and my children.
In the handbook, my piece serves as a guide for writers and publishers of non-fiction works to ensure they’ve analysed potential defamation risks and avoid any lurking pitfalls. My aim is not to discourage anyone from publishing challenging work, considering the high demand for impactful books.
The Cork-based poet Lucy Holme, has made her nonfiction debut with a brilliant composition, Blue Diagonals, under the banner of Brokensleep Books. A perfect blend of memoir and essay that leaves the reader in awe.
The Kilkenny Bookcentre and Waterstones in Cork share a crucial space in my heart. The first, playing a pivotal role in my childhood, and the latter, capturing my affection in my later years.
In the handbook, my advice to those experimenting with hybrid texts would be to remember that the process is all about having fun and trying new things. When the experimentation clicks, the excitement received by the reader is mirrored in the enjoyment of the writer.
Lastly, I’d like to recommend a recent poetry collection All the Good Things You Deserve by Elaine Feeney. Not only have her novels rightfully received numerous accolades and praise, but her poetry holds the same depth and vitality, making this collection a must-read.
Being without the uplifting companionship of Books Upstairs would surely leave me feeling adrift. It’s a welcoming sanctuary for enthusiasts of poetry, values and actively encourages all varieties of writing through readings and launches. I regularly frequent this place for gatherings, rendezvous and general conversation.
Regarding my contribution to the handbook, it shines a light on the uneasy and nervous feelings experienced post the publishing of one’s initial collection, and how we establish a supportive literary community. I aspire to provide some clarity on certain elements of the poetry realm, offering an extended outlook.
Milena Williamson
I’m presently captivated by Elaine Feeney’s “How to Build a Boat.” This stunning narrative of unforeseen friendships and cross generational trauma is striking. The characters are refreshingly unique and engaging. By the end, you’ll also wish to be sailing along in a currach.
No Alibis in Belfast holds the title of my most cherished bookstore. My memory is littered with warm deliveries during lockdown, personalised book recommendations and the auspicious launch of my first-ever poetry book — No Alibis feels like a second home for me, it roots me to Belfast.
About my segment in the handbook, I look forward to my piece inspiring budding poets to continue their writing journey and foster grand ambitions for their debut collections. The path may appear intimidating, but if I managed it, so can others.
Eoghan Smith
Paul Lynch’s “Prophet Song” made a notable impression on me as the latest Irish work I’ve read. Its current relevance and universal appeal makes it a must-read for all. The most stimulating and controversial book I indulged in this year was “Mary and the Rabbit Dream” by Noémi Kiss-Deáki. Outside the realm of fiction, I highly advise collections by two accomplished Irish essayists: Brian Dillon’s “Affinities: On Art and Fascination” and Chris Arthur’s “What is it Like to Be Alive?”
I delight in aimless perusal in bookstores. The Maynooth Bookshop, my neighbourhood bookstore, is a hidden treasure where I’ve unearthed books I hadn’t anticipated I’d enjoy. I make a conscious effort to support this local bookstore over online sellers. The absence of bookshops would render our towns less inviting and devoid of creative spirit.
In the abundant guidance and knowledge concerning the acquisition of writing skills and getting published, it’s not hard to overlook the principal reason that motivates an author to write. My contribution in the handbook, focusing on identifying, nurturing and staying true to a personal artistic vision, is designed to stimulate introspection on this essential initial point: what a writer aims to convey about the universe.
As Halloween is round the corner, and considering my role as the comic book enthusiast in The Irish Writer’s Handbook, I’d recommend Scarenthood by Nick Roche and Chris O’Halloran – a folk horror graphic novel based in Wexford.
Since turning 16, I’ve been involved in the book world in some way. When I feel the need for a morale boost, I head to a bookstore, enticed by the specific aura of being enveloped by books, admiring their covers and absorbing the unique vibe. I’ve got lost on more than one occasion in Hodges Figgis, discovered writers at The Gutter Bookshop and sought hidden gems in Chapters.
My section in the handbook reflects my experiences in comics since 2015, where I found a lack of information about other people’s entry journeys. The comic community, characterised by its constant growth and evolution, has always been welcoming to emerging talents. With my contribution, I hope to provide valuable insights to comic and graphic novel enthusiasts who find the industry too intimidating to figure out an entry point.
There’s a Monster Behind the Door, by Gaelle Belem and translated into English by Karen Fleetwood and Laëtitia Saint-Loubert, is a release by Bullaun Press, a relatively new Irish publisher with a focus on translated fiction. Based in La Reunion, the story offers a humorous yet unsettling exploration of life on the periphery.
My preferred bookstore used to be the Skerries Bookshop, to such an extent that I’ve even got a picture of it framed on my wall. Yet, it sadly closed earlier this year. Now, my favourite is Dubray Books in Swords Pavilions. The recent establishment of this large bookstore in a major shopping centre (where Eason already exists) instantly lifts my spirits each time I pass it and revitalises my optimism for the future of literature.
This handbook excerpt provides a glimpse into the immense pleasure and privilege I had experienced during the process of working with five distinct actors on the audiobook adaptation of my novel titled ‘Youth’.
Christabel Scaife recently concluded ‘The Garden Against Time: In Search of a Common Paradise,’ a splendid narrative by Olivia Laing about her journey restoring a walled garden in Suffolk amidst the global health crisis. The garden establishes continuity in the narrative, allowing Laing to weave in various historical and literary allusions, ultimately drawing attention to our relationship with nature amidst an existential climate crises.
I am fond of Books at One, a quaint bookstore nestled in Louisburgh known for its convivial atmosphere and extensive repertoire of titles.
Through my contribution in the handbook, I aim to help novices in academic writing navigate the chasm between a PhD thesis and a publishable book, which may often be disparaging when publishers show disinterest.
Anne Tannam is captivated by the narrative in ‘He Used to Be Me’ written by Anne Walsh Donnelly. The book centres around Daft Matt, a somewhat isolated character from western Ireland. Donnelly eloquently details the multifaceted human condition of a man who has ventured beyond his community’s comfort zone, using an amalgamation of prose, humour, and empathy.
Books Upstairs is considered a cornerstone of Dublin’s literary scene. Where else could one better appreciate the passing Dublin hustle than from the bay window, a warm cup of tea in one hand and an interesting read in the other?
In the handbook piece, she underlines the importance of recognising our underlying motivation for writing. Once identified, it helps put writing at the centerpiece of our daily routines instead of being sidelined by other obligations.
Nuala O’Connor praises Amanda Clarke’s ‘Holy Wells of County Cork’ published by Wildways Press, for its captivating compilation of beautiful photographs along with detailed coverage of these significant cultural sites.
In Galway, Kennys is more than just a bookstore. This incredible place is an amalgamation of dedicated and innovative booksellers, an art gallery, and unquestioned support for Irish writers.
In O’Connor’s handbook piece, she emphasizes that writing can be improved through continuous practice and hopes that her piece will assist those who particularly love blending facts and fiction in historical narrative structures.
Gerard Beirne.
Having spent my formative years in Cavan and now residing in Sligo, it’s no wonder that Dermot Healy’s ‘A Goat’s Song’ holds a special place in my heart. Like myself, Healy also moved to Cavan during his childhood and eventually found his home in Sligo. I vividly recall a memorable encounter with him in the Farnham Arms Hotel. He bluntly critiqued my work, stating, “Your issue is you think too much and feel too little,” pointing first to his head and then to his heart. His words were the most insightful and transformative advice I’ve received, in life and writing alike.
The yearning for literature is a shared sentiment in Sligo, a county that boasts a rich literary heritage. The local Liber Bookshop, situated in downtown Sligo, is the perfect place for book lovers. Its collection covers an extensive range of authors and subjects with a special emphasis on local writers and interests. As a writer, I appreciate their support. They regularly host book launches and other literary events. Another marvel of the town is the second-hand book store, Bookmart. Filled with an enchanting selection of second-hand books from different genres, it’s easy to lose track of time within its aisles.
My written work in the handbook delves into the nuances of writing and teaching the craft. Not all writers are cut out for this pathway, however, those who are find that teaching extends more than just financial stability. It acts as catalyst for their own writing and there is immeasurable joy in igniting the power of words in others.
Liz Quirke.
Kate O’Brien’s ‘As Music and Splendour’ is another memorable work.
I no longer regard Charlie Byrne’s in Galway as my local bookshop, but it remains near and dear to me. As a 19-year-old who had just moved to Galway, I happened upon this shop. I managed to sneak in numerous joyful afternoon reading sessions, focusing particularly on queer literature. Later in life, I shared the joy with my kids during Saturday morning story sessions and even embraced author friends’ book launches. This place holds a special place in my heart.
Concerning my piece in the handbook, I want to address the potential misunderstanding about pursuing an MA in creative writing, and writing certifications in general – my aim is to provide some much-needed clarity on the subject.
There’s an exceptional book by Catherine Dunne titled ‘A Good Enough Mother’ (published by Betimes Books). It’s a soul-crushing tale that explores the lives of three generations of Irish females who strive to overcome the harms inflicted by patriarchal Irish society over the past six decades. This book was recognised as the winner of the inaugural European Rapallo Prize for Fiction in 2023.
Alan Hanna’s Bookshop in Rathmines, Dublin, is a must-visit. The shop has been an endless support to Turas Press, from facilitating orders to linking us with libraries and offering advice on effective book distribution.
My piece in the handbook emphasizes practical strategies for promotion that independent and self-publishers might find useful. It addresses the most significant hurdle small presses face: linking their books with potential reader bases in an oversaturated market.
Chris Haughton’s ‘The History of Information’ is a book I wholeheartedly endorse. This is by far one of the top non-fiction reads. It’s brimming with facts about the evolution of information sharing over the ages, ranging from ancient cave paintings to modern artificial intelligence. The information is accessible, and it’s written in beautiful prose. It’s also visually pleasing. This remarkable book is penned by an award-winning Irish author and illustrator. Ideal for all ages nine and up.
I am engaged as an event manager at Halfway up the Stairs, which is my favourite bookshop, unsurprisingly. We’re all fanatics about books and immensely enjoy imparting our zeal for children’s literature to budding readers.
In the handbook, I denote the significance of school, library, and festival events to children’s authors, I write about their importance. Such live literature events are crucial for cultivating a future generation of avid readers. They are also a dependable source of income for authors who specialise in children’s literature. my name is Lori Moriarty.
Sinéad Mac Aodha’s captivating new piece in the handbook aims to guide children’s and young adult authors in utilising social media effectively. With simple and motivating advice, she sets out to debunk jargon and highlight how essential social media can be in promoting Ireland’s vibrant children’s book industry, especially considering the lack of local authors in bestseller lists despite the wealth of talent present.
Ruth Ennis recommends ‘Fia and the Last Snow Deer’ by Eilish Fisher with magical illustrations by Dermot Flynn. This debut verse novel, set in the ancient times of Ireland, follows a girl and her deer – their village’s only hope against destruction. With mesmerising prose and drawings, it is a book not to be missed for children aged 9 and above.
Molly Aitken’s ‘Bright I Burn’ has recently been finished, it offers a reimagined story of Alice Kyteler, the maiden in Ireland to be accused of witchery. The relevance of this novel is twofold; marking approximately 700 years since this Kilkenny witch trial and portraying feminine fury in a manner that is sure to strike a chord with the contemporary reader. An excellently executed, unbridled book.
There’s an apathy for asking to choose a single favourite bookstore. However, the bookstore in Kilkenny known as Khan’s is lauded. It is somewhat a hidden treasure with a vast collection and ever ready help from Khan herself. Its impressive dyslexia section and Chapters Books’ innovative approach of selling preloved books on their website is impressive.
Her own locality boasts of the Maynooth bookshop, admired for its readiness to stock any requested titles and refrains from judging Ennis’ extensive book purchases. As a beginner writer for youngsters, there is much to uncover about the children’s book sector in Ireland. Ennis imparts invaluable knowledge from her last five years of experience in her handbook essay, intended to aid future children’s book enthusiasts.
At present, I am engrossed in the hugely compelling novel called Our London Lives, penned by the brilliant Christine Dwyer Hickey. Having recently embarked on the reading journey, I have become enamoured with the intriguing protagonist, Milly. The complete perplexity she experiences and her utter allure towards London feels uncannily real. My fervour for London can be traced back to my tender years, specifically to a condensed reading of Great Expectations shared alongside my father. Hickey’s vivid descriptions of the locale, the characteristic speech dialect which feels unfamiliar to Milly and the unique aura, smell and touch of the tavern where she is employed and first develops an interest in a youthful pugilist, Pip, are all disarmingly believable – I felt transported right from the start!
On routine, as I commute to work, I make it a point to stroll beside Hodges Figgis. It stands tall as Dublin’s literary haven. I’ve had the pleasure of losing myself in its vast collection and attending several impressive book debuts there, most notably Charlotte by Martina Devlin, and the recent release from my friend and gifted poet, Katie Donovan, a collection titled May Swim which I was privileged to introduce at the venue.
It was immensely gratifying to witness Literature Ireland liaising with the Hodges Figgis crew for the celebration of the International Translation Day at the month’s end. Irish literature, translated to various global languages for the first time, had the chance to shine in one of their gracious, emblematic show windows.
An article I have contributed to the guidebook: I’ve often noticed the camaraderie within the Irish literary community. This unity is demonstrated when we chaperone Irish authors to overseas literature conventions. It also extends to the broader literary circle here, and I am thrilled to see Literature Ireland included alongside so many its fellow literary stalwarts in the guidebook. Despite being so globally focused, promoting the finest of Irish literature overseas, primarily through translation, Literature Ireland’s significant contributions are sometimes overlooked.
A personal book suggestion: I See the Moon and the Moon Sees Me, the latest addition to Sarah Webb’s critically acclaimed series, Favourite Rhymes from an Irish Childhood is pure joy to read aloud to young ones and is bound to become a cherished item in every household.
The famed Halfway Up the Stairs children’s bookstore in Greystones holds a special place in my heart, although I wish I could visit it more frequently. In the handbook, I’ve shared my insights on writing children’s poetry, covered my own writing journey, shared valued advice, and touched on some interesting points that I’ve encountered over the years. I hope new and budding children’s poetry authors find it inspiring and beneficial.
Ivan O’Brien
RF Kuang’s Yellowface fascinated me – a brilliantly crafted dissection of jealousy within the literary realm. Charlie Byrne’s bookstore in Galway offers an element of surprise. You never know which book you might stumble upon next.
The handbook section I wrote: It’s a common misconception that the job ends when the book gets written or edited. But in reality, that’s where the actual work kickstarts.
Jennifer McMahon
Nuala O’Connor’s Seaborne, a stunningly penned analysis of Irish pirate Anne Bonny, really blew me away. Bridge Street Books in Wicklow town is a treasure trove. Its cordial and accommodating staff heighten the experience.
In the handbook I wrote: The Irish Writers Novel Fair has unlocked doors I never knew existed. If you’ve written a novel, give it a shot!
Claire Hennessy
Liars by Sarah Manguso claimed the title of my favourite read of 2024 – a brilliant and tense exploration into modern marriage and artistic creation. The Books Upstairs in D’Olier Street always seems to introduce me to titles I haven’t encountered before.
My handbook piece: Persist even when the odds are against you. That’s the key to staying sane when chasing a creative path.
Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin
Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca has my absolute reverence. My Young Adult novel, Something Terrible Happened Last Night, also garners wonderful placement at my beloved Halfway Up the Stairs in Greystones.
In the handbook, I discussed: A great agent can be worth their weight in gold but authors often struggle to discern their role or how to find the right one. Hopefully, my piece will shed some light on this.
Patrick O’Donoghue
Eimear Ryan’s ‘The Grass Ceiling’ is a commendable addition to Irish sporting literature, a real gem. During my college days in Galway, I often spent time idly browsing through books at Charlie Byrne’s bookshop. My contribution to the handbook of writing: Some tips to help a writer’s work stand out to editors or publishers.
Deirdre Nolan
I’ve recommended Keri Hulme’s ‘The Bone People’ so frequently that I’m amazed I haven’t been prohibited from doing so. Growing up, the Ennis Bookshop was my haven and the birthplace of my imagination, where I discovered works by Alice Walker, Milan Kundera, James Herriot, and Bridget Jones. I felt privileged to be asked to write about crafting commercially viable literary fiction. The book is replete with helpful advice and information.
Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan
Jan Carson’s ‘Quickly, While They Still Have Horses’ combines everything I cherish about her works in this set of short narratives. Upon moving to Ireland in 2012, I visited The Gutter Bookshop first, and it is still my favourite. Thanks to Bob and Marta. In the writing guidebook, my chapter is a practical guide for artists in Ireland. It draws on my arts management education and my experience as a neurodivergent immigrant writer.
Daragh Fleming
Either ‘Illusions’ by Richard Bach or ‘Bodies’ by Christine Ann Foley, are my recommendations. I fondly remember reading in Waterstones Cork, a significant place in my life. When shopping in town, I’d coax my parents to visit. For the handbook, I’ve written about the importance of mental health for writers, who often spend much time alone.
David Butler
Mike McCormack’s ‘Solar Bones’ is a profound exploration of the crossover of personal and political, domesticity and public affairs. I highly regard Books Upstairs for its ongoing support to small Irish publishers and periodicals. In the manual, I wrote, focusing on stage writing. Regardless of the genre, I highlighted the need for the effective dramatic portrayal of characters and plot.
Niall McArdle
“The Compilation of Tales by William Trevor is a hefty tome (totalling over 1,200 pages), brimming with chronicles penned over the span of many years, each exhibiting accuracy and nuance in its purest form.
Warm memories of Greene’s envelop me, where I used to find solace from the rain, perusing the stands stationed outside beneath the shade. A few years slipped by while I lived overseas. Upon my homecoming, I was met with a shock. The once familiar sight of the store had vanished as I turned onto Westland Row. It had long ceased to exist, and the sense of loss took me by surprise, forcing me to seek refuge in the National Gallery to regain composure. Another respected institution of Dublin, Fred Hanna’s, wasn’t much further, where I once toiled under the rigid supervision of Fred himself.
My contribution to the guidebook focuses on the spoken word. Stories have been passed down orally long before they were ever inscribed. Stories primarily, are narrated, and even though we read the text, the narrator and the character’s voices are imagined. My content aims at writing for radio and serves to remind creators to stay attentive to sound, tone, and rhythm.
Jackie Lynam showcased Ghost Mountain by Rónán Hession, an extraordinary narrative probing the essence of being human. It’s a strikingly crafted text, infused with humour yet with elements of sadness, presenting an entirely unique reading experience this year.
Dublin boasts of several delightful bookstores, where I have shopped, browsed, and participated in remarkable events over the years. The independent bookstore ‘Books Upstairs’ on D’Olier Street, renowned for proactive promotion of budding authors, holds a dear spot in my heart. I’ve gratefully had the opportunity to recite my poetry here and they also showcase my publication, Traces.
The goal behind my contribution to the guidebook is to motivate people to embrace a creative life. I intend to highlight how accommodating and beneficial our public libraries can be to everyone.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert was Jamie O’Connell’s recommendation. It’s a splendid read for people aspiring to write or nurture their creative side. Gilbert characterises the creative process in a manner that resonates with my own encounters.
What I relish most about bookshops is engaging with Irish book vendors. These encounters provide opportunities to converse with fellow bibliophiles. Despite being innately introverted, striking up a conversation is simple, all I need to inquire is, “What’s your current read?” and the dialogue flows effortlessly. I deeply treasure this natural, human, and frequently unexpected approach to discovering new literature, which tends to be more effective in helping me unearth a book I will adore, as compared to any virtual platform.
I anticipate that those who go through the guidebook will comprehend that penning the narrative is merely part of the challenge – it’s in the editing stage where excellent writing comes to light. Paraphrasing Proust, he claimed, “We don’t peruse books, we read into ourselves.” I hope potential authors find resonance in my personal creative journey as I narrate it, and feel a certain level of kinship.