In concert with Irish Book Week, a national event celebrating Irish books, bookshops, authors, poets, publishers, and illustrators from 19th to 26th of October, the latest version of The Irish Writers Handbook 2025 is now available. The handbook, which features the insights and guidance of over 60 professionals in the industry, presents a detailed, up-to-date directory with information on all Irish publishing houses, resources and contest details, writing services and festivals.
A number of contributors for the handbook also make book recommendations for Irish Book Week, sharing their favourite bookshops and giving readers a glimpse of their section in The Irish Writers Handbook 2025. A Q&A event with several contributors of the handbook will be held at Chapters Bookshop in Dublin on the 19th of October, at midday, and the handbook will be accessible across all reputable bookshops from that day onwards.
More insights into what Irish writers are reading are offered by Donal Ryan, Mark Tighe, Nuala O’Connor, Claire Hennessy, and others. Sam Thompson states that he sees no difference between writing for adults and writing for children.
Recommendations from Donal Ryan include Plainsong by Kent Haruf, describing it as a life-affirming novel of beauty and gentleness; a testament to human kindness that also succeeds as a compelling page-turner. Expressing a strong bond to several bookshops, Ryan singles out the Nenagh Bookshop, managed by John and Catherine Ryan, as a place he holds dear. They have held launches for most of his books and his mother has always been greeted like royalty, despite any perceived similarities to the Queen of Dirt Island.
Ryan hopes his contribution in the handbook will make readers reflect on the importance of broadening viewpoints through reading, the transformative power of words, and the need to avoid having established prejudices validated by their reading choices. The message from Olivia Fitzsimons was also included.
The first time I encountered Yoko Ogawa’s work was through the New Yorker fiction podcast, triggered by a recommendation from a writer friend to give a listen to the tale, The Cafeteria in the Evening and a Pool in the Rain. The enchanting storytelling style lured me immediately, prompting me to absorb as much of her work as I could. In the final days of my mother’s life, I found comfort in reading Ogawa’s narrative, The Housekeeper and the Professor, to her. The compassionate rhythm of the dialogue, the intricacy of the relationship between the housekeeper, her child Root and the maths professor – all held within Ogawa’s engrossing narratives – offered an escape from surrounding reality. It recalled memories of the innocence of childhood, the joy of reading and being read to, a joy I hoped echoed in my mother’s heart as well. For gifting us with one final tale, Ogawa’s written works will forever be cherished – a priceless present indeed.
Dublin boasts of my two beloved bookstores for adult books – Books Upstairs and Hodges Figgis. Back in Greystones, my hometown, is the marvellous children’s store, Halfway Up The Stairs. As an aunt to a flock of nieces and nephews, I find this the perfect place to cultivate their passion for reading. The subscription service at the bookshop is adored by my sons, and I appreciate the shop’s ability to provide ideal recommendations based on teh children’s varying whims and desires. It’s a spot filled with happiness and a thriving Irish children’s and YA authors’ community. Do visit!
When originating my handbook piece, I wished to impart the knowledge I gathered through my maiden experience – both the known and the new. Releasing a book, and in the meantime your own self, to the realm of publishing carries a daunting quality and can intimidate even the most self-assured individual. This handbook would have proved indispensable for myself and other beginners, providing guidance and lessening our overwhelming ordeal. Instead, we stumbled, and learned from our failures. However, this trial and errors method isn’t necessary. Consequently, acquire this book, gift to a beloved or a friend who has confided in their writing ambitions or is considering to take up this process. The book provides invaluable advice, guidance and motivation for every phase of the writing journey.
Danielle McLaughlin.
I recently finished a delightful, heartening book by Christine Dwyer Hickey titled Our London Lives and it was a superb read! The novel introduced characters that were coloured so vividly that it felt as though I’ve been acquainted with them for a considerable length of time.
My common haunt is the well-known Waterstones located on Patrick Street in Cork. Exceptionally supportive, the knowledgeable booksellers there expertly help the locals authors flourish. An individual of note there is a man named John Breen, who is simply remarkable!
For those wondering, a section from my handbook reads as follows: It’s crucial to persist even when you face a wave of rejections. If you’ve yet to read work from Jean Rhys, then you’re surely missing out on something special.
Currently, I’m engrossed in a captivating book by Meghan Twohey and Jodi Kantor titled She Said. These incredible journalists from New York Times initially shared the scandalous story on Harvey Weinstein. I’m equally excited to begin reading Drama Drives Interest on the Web Summit, a recent publication by Catherine Sanz and Paddy Cosgrave.
Two remarkable local bookshops are Rathfarnham Bookshop and The Village Bookshop in Terenure. Both establishments have an enthusiastic group of owners and cooperative staff that never fail to impress. It’s always quite enjoyable visiting these bookshops with my kids.
In my handbook, I’ve issued a warning to potential writers and publishers who are preparing non-fiction work to be aware of defamation risks they may face. Despite this potential pitfall, I sincerely hope that it doesn’t discourage anyone from publishing compelling, hard-hitting work.
In terms of recent books that caught my attention, Lucy Holme, an incredible Cork-based poet released a commendable nonfiction debut named Blue Diagonals. The book, published by Brokensleep Books, is an incredible combination of memoir and essay.
A fact about me, I have fond memories both in The Kilkenny Bookcentre and Waterstones in Cork, places that caught my heart during my formative years.
For aspiring writers, a snippet of advice from my handbook is about hybrid texts. The joy with hybrid texts lies in being playful and experimental. Hitting the right chord can elicit as much excitement in the reader as it does in the writer.
As a final note, I would recommend reading the latest poetry book of Elaine Feeney, All the Good Things You Deserve. Elaine, who’s been bestowed with numerous awards and much-deserved praise for her novels, doesn’t disappoint with this wonderful poetry collection that packs a punch.
Devoid of the comforting presence of Books Upstairs, I’d be completely disoriented. It’s a real sanctuary for poets and a splendidly encouraging platform for all kinds of literary events and launches. I frequent this place weekly; not just for gatherings, but also for rendezvous and friendly chats.
As for my contribution to the handbook, it discusses the nervous, uncertain periods after publishing a first collection and offers a glimpse on how a writing circle that boosts us is created. My intention is to clarify some features of the poetry world and offer a perspective of a bigger picture.
Milena Williamson
Elaine Feeney’s How to Build a Boat is a striking narrative about unforeseen friendships and multi-generational distress. The characters are fresh and unforeseen, and as the book concludes, the reader wishes to navigate a river in a currach.
No Alibis in Belfast is top on my list of bookshops. My fondest memories are their generous consignments during the pandemic, personally handpicked book suggestions, and of course, the introduction of my maiden poetry collection. No Alibis is my sanctuary, my connection to Belfast.
For my part in the handbook, I aspire to inspire fledgling poets to persist in writing and harboring grand aspirations about their inaugural collections. It may appear intimidating, but if I could pull it off, anyone can.
Eoghan Smith
I was deeply moved by the recent Irish book, Prophet Song by Paul Lynch, and would recommend it to everyone for its relevance and broad appeal. My pick for the most engaging and contentious book I’ve read this year would be Mary and the Rabbit Dream by Noémi Kiss-Deáki. In non-fiction, I would endorse pieces by two impressive Irish essayists: Affinities: On Art and Fascination by Brian Dillon and What is it Like to Be Alive? by Chris Arthur.
I derive joy from simply wandering in and around bookshops. My neighbourhood store, The Maynooth Bookshop, is a hidden treasure; there, I’ve come across books I wasn’t aware I had a desire to read. Instead of resorting to online purchases, I prefer ordering from the shop; the absence of bookshops would leave our towns dreary, devoid of the vibrancy they bring.
Paul Carroll and Kevin Curran are two authors involved in The Irish Writer’s Handbook who share their experience and ideals to inspire aspiring writers. Carroll, on one hand, stresses the importance of a writer’s ability to discover, cultivate and remain devoted to their artistic vision. He hopes that his contribution to the handbook will reinforce in others the essence of what a writer is trying to articulate about the world.
With Halloween on the horizon, Carroll, known for his work in the comic industry, recommends “Scarenthood” by Nick Roche and Chris O’Halloran, a folk horror graphic novel based in Wexford. Carroll has been engrossed in literature in various forms since he was 16 and seeks solace in bookshops, appreciating the unique ambience they offer. He wishes to aid others in their journey into the comic and graphic novel world through his part in the handbook, providing useful insights to those who find this artistic scene somewhat daunting.
Kevin Curran, meanwhile, points to Gaelle Belem’s “There’s a Monster Behind the Door,” translated into English by Karen Fleetwood and Laëtitia Saint-Loubert and published this October by the relatively new Irish publisher Bullaun Press, as a notable read. It humourously yet ominously depicts life on the fringe in La Reunion.
Curran’s love for bookshops is evidenced by his lamenting the recent closure of his favourite haunt, Skerries Bookshop. He, however, finds renewed hope in Dubray Books, a new large bookstore in Swords Pavilions, which he believes is a testament to the enduring relevance of books and the written word.
In their respective sections in the handbook, Christabel Scaife, Anne Tannam, and Nuala O’Connor each convey a remarkable experience in their fields.
Christabel, in describing her journey of working alongside five various actors in creating an audiobook adaptation of her novel “Youth,” portrays it as a delightful privilege. She also expressed her admiration for Olivia Laing’s remarkable work, “The Garden Against Time: In Search of a Common Paradise,” which depicts the restoration of a walled garden in Suffolk amid the pandemic. This work not only interweaves history and literature but also addresses the pressing issue of our connection with nature during the global climate crisis. One of Christabel’s favourite bookstores is Books at One, a welcoming community bookstore in Louisburgh. Furthermore, she also shares her insight on the challenges faced by first-time academic authors, hoping to aid them in transitioning from thesis to published book.
Anne Tannam’s section explores her fascination with Anne Walsh Donnelly’s narrative, “He Used to Be Me,” which embodies the humanity of Daft Matt, a man isolated from his rural Irish community, with a sense of empathy and humour. Tannam also appreciates the charm of Books Upstairs, a popular spot where Dubliners can unwind with a beverage and a book in hand. She concludes her section by suggesting strategies to establish a steady writing routine and prioritising this over other tasks once you have a clear understanding of your purpose as a writer.
Nuala O’Connor recommends her readers to check out Amanda Clarke’s work titled “Holy Wells of County Cork” which is a detailed exploration of significant cultural sites filled with beautiful images. O’Connor is a patron of Kennys in Galway – renowned for its dedication, creative bookselling, art exhibitions, and support of Irish authors. She sheds light on her experience in writing, particularly about merging actual events with fictional narratives. She hopes her piece will be useful for writers who share the same interest.
Being raised in Cavan and eventually finding a home in Sligo, I’d suggest A Goat’s Song by Dermot Healy (who himself transitioned from Cavan to Sligo later in life) without hesitation. A vivid memory of mine is Healy confronting me in the early stages of my writing journey in the Farnham Arms Hotel’s bar in Cavan. He audaciously announced, to all present, “The issue at hand,” – an indirect nod to my writing that the surrounding crowd was oblivious to – “is too much of this,” while indicating his head, “and a lack of this,” pointing towards his heart. It remains the most important guidance I’ve ever received in terms of life or writing in general. Revisiting A Goat’s Song, originally released in 1994, its brilliance remains unaltered 30 years on.
In Sligo, an area plentiful in literary richness, browsing through Liber Bookshop, situated in Sligo town’s nucleus, is a pleasure. This store boasts an abundance of local writers and books relevant to the area, as well as works by national and global authors. They have continuously supported writers – me included – by hosting launches and other literary gatherings. Another treasure in Sligo is Bookmart, a purveyor of pre-loved books with an impressive range of poetry, drama, fiction, history, and exceptional books. Be warned though: you might lose track of hours and end up being absent for days given the extensive collection (not to forget a substantial assemblage of classic vinyl records).
I’ve crafted a piece in a guidebook on the dynamics of writing and teaching the craft. While not all writers are fit for this role, those who are can reap rewards extending beyond financial stability. It enhances one’s own writing capabilities, and undoubtedly, witnessing others derive joy from writing is the ultimate satisfaction.
Liz Quirke
Kate O’Brien’s As Music and Splendour.
Despite no longer being my local literature hub, Charlie Byrne’s in Galway will forever have a special place in my heart. During a brief residence in Galway at the age of 19, I fortunately stumbled upon it. I fondly recall countless afternoons spent slyly poring over queer literature. As time went on, my children accompanied me to Saturday morning storytelling and support book launches of author friends. I hold dear memories of this exceptional bookstore.
In my insert for the handbook, I set out to shine a light on the confusion surrounding an MA in creative writing and similar certifications, aiming to inject some understanding into the discussion.
Liz McSkeane’s heart-touching novel, “A Good Enough Mother”, published by Betimes Books, narrates the trials and resilience of three generations of Irish females battling against the biased Irish society of the past six decades. Her brilliant work led her to bag the European Rapallo Prize for Fiction 2023.
I also extend my appreciation to Alan Hanna’s Bookshop in Rathmines, Dublin, for their perpetual support towards Turas Press, facilitating orders, our connection with the libraries and invaluable guidance on book dispersal.
I contributed to the handbook a helpful guide to marketing strategies that can aid independent and self publishing houses to navigate the biggest obstacle – getting their books recognized by prospective readers in the saturated market.
My talismanic book recommendation is Chris Haughton’s “The History of Information”, definitely one of the most riveting non-fiction books I’ve read. Charting the evolution of information exchange from cave inscriptions to the AI age in an audience-friendly manner. Irish author and illustrator Haughton, has created an eye-catching, informative and brilliantly written masterpiece, suitable for individuals aged 9 and over.
My job as the events manager at the eminent Halfway up the Stairs is carried out with absolute love since we’re all literature enthusiasts, and derive joy from instilling this in our young clientele.
In my section of the handbook, I’ve emphasized the significance of school, library, and festival events for children’s authors for reader inculcation, future reader production and a key income source.
Lori Moriarty.
Molly Aitken’s Bright I Burn, a captivating tale that traces and shapes the life narrative of Alice Kyteler, the initial lady in Ireland to be convicted as a witch, is a novel I just completed reading. It happens to coincide with the imminent 700th anniversary of this witch trial in Kilkenny, which adds to its relevance. Additionally, it powerfully encapsulates feminine wrath, creating an echoing connection with today’s reader. Truly, a wild but expertly crafted novel.
Pertaining to bookshops that I have a connection with, it’s tough to select one. Nonetheless, Khan’s Books, situated in Kilkenny, is a somewhat unexplored treasure. It features an extensive collection and there’s always a helping hand available (mainly from Khan herself). It also has an incredibly good section for dyslexia. Furthermore, I have a deep admiration for the strategy utilised by Chapters Books in selling used books through their website.
My addition to the handbook is aimed at supporting authors who are writing for children and young adults explore their way through social media platforms. I try to simplify the often complicated terminology and present helpful and uplifting guidance. Seeing as currently there are few Irish authors present on the bestseller list for children’s books, despite the wealth of excellent authors and illustrators we have, social media can be integral in boosting the children’s and young adult literatures scene in Ireland.
Ruth Ennis
Eilish Fisher’s inaugural verse novel, Fia and the Last Snow Deer, whimsically illustrated by Dermot Flynn, is set in ancient Ireland. It narrates the journey of a young girl and her deer, the only hope for her community threatened by ruin. An artistic masterpiece in both text and graphics, it is a must-read for those above the age of nine.
I have a special place for my local shop, the Maynooth bookstore. They are always welcoming, accommodating all my title requests, and never question the overwhelming number of books I purchase.
For my section in the handbook, I present some critical insights about the children’s literature realm in Ireland obtained through the last five years. This would benefit aspiring writers focused on children’s literature.
Sinéad Mac Aodha.
I’ve recently embarked on reading Christine Dwyer Hickey’s Our London Lives, and find myself captivated by her protagonist, Milly. Milly’s experience of bewilderment intertwined with utter intrigue towards London feels so palpable. My fascination with the English capital began at a tender age, when my father and I delved into a simplified edition of Great Expectations. Christine impeccably depicts Milly’s location and the unusual pace and tone of speech around her, as well as capturing the sensual aura of the pub where she works and develops an affection for a young pugilist named Pip. Her storytelling won me over from the initial sentence.
Hodges Figgis is a bookstore that I frequent during my commute to my office. Termed as Dublin’s literary haven, I’ve spent many joyful hours perusing their many bookshelves and participating in their splendid book release events. My latest book launch attendances include Martina Devlin’s Charlotte, published by Lilliput Press, and May Swim, a fresh compilation by my friend, poet Katie Donovan, which I had the pleasure of introducing.
The collaboration between Literature Ireland and Hodges Figgis led to a spectacular celebration of International Translation Day last September. The event marked a first of its kind, showcasing a generous array of Irish literature translated into various languages from around the globe, garnishing one of the bookstore’s renowned, charming display windows.
For those seeking advice in the handbook, Literature Ireland’s ever-inclusive and cooperative ethos within the Irish literature industry shines through. We enjoy showcasing Irish authors at international literature festivals, as well as fostering engagement within our domestic literary community. Despite Literature Ireland’s work often being overlooked due to our international orientation, we remain dedicated to championing Irish literature worldwide, particularly translated versions. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ruth McKee and Wordwell for publishing this book, which greatly serves the broader writing community.
Lucinda Jacob
I wholeheartedly recommend the latest installment in Sarah Webb’s series, I See the Moon and the Moon Sees Me. A compilation of Favourite Rhymes from an Irish Childhood, it makes an ideal read-aloud book for youngsters and is set to become a household favourite.
The bookshop I most admire is the extraordinary Children’s Books specialist, Halfway Up the Stairs, located in Greystones, although I wish I could visit it more often.
In the handbook, I contributed an article providing insights into creating children’s poetry, including a glimpse into my own journey of writing and some valuable advice and observations I’ve accumulated over time. Given the current surge in children’s poetry, I hope that my piece will provide inspiration and guidance to other writers.
Ivan O’Brien
Yellowface by RF Kuang gave me immense enjoyment; it’s a wonderfully twisted portrayal of book-world envy.
Charlie Byrne’s in Galway is a favourite due to its unpredictable book collection.
From my contribution in the handbook, people need to understand that penning a book or editing it isn’t the final step in the process; that’s where the actual journey begins.
Jennifer McMahon
Seaborne by Nuala O’Connor is an utterly exquisite and eloquently penned examination of the Irish pirate, Anne Bonny.
Bridge Street Books in Wicklow town is laudable for its affable and accommodating staff and literary gems.
In my article for the handbook, I discuss how the Irish Writers Novel Fair has opened up impossible opportunities for me and suggest all novelists to consider applying.
Claire Hennessy
Liars by Sarah Manguso is one of my best reads in 2024, a piercing and tense inspection of modern marriage and artistic genesis.
Books Upstairs on D’Olier Street is an irresistible hub of undiscovered titles that one is bound to adore.
My handbook addition is based on understanding that rejection is commonplace in creative fields, but the key to maintaining sanity is to keep pushing forward.
Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin
Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca is a personal favourite.
Halfway Up the Stairs in Greystones is simply fantastic! Plus, they also carry my YA book, Something Terrible Happened Last Night, which truly excites me.
In my handbook piece, I aim to clarify the role of a quality agent, who is undeniably invaluable but can often confuse writers when it comes to finding and understanding one.
Patrick O’Donoghue highly admires Eimear Ryan’s ‘The Grass Ceiling’, referring to it as a marvellously composed complement to the Irish sports book category. He honed his idle browsing skills during his university days in Galway at Charlie Byrne’s bookshop. His contribution to the handbook imparts subtle suggestions aimed at seizing an editor or publisher’s attention when submitting a writer’s work.
Deirdre Nolan enthusiastically recommends Keri Hulme’s ‘The Bone People’, a book she has fervently suggested to so many others, she is astonished there aren’t any restraining orders placed against her. The Ennis Bookshop served as her childhood refuge and creativity library, where she spent countless joyous hours uncovering the works of authors like Alice Walker, Milan Kundera, James Herriot and Bridget Jones. She feels privileged for being invited to offer a piece on how to generate literary fiction that sells, and expresses admiration for the book’s rich advisory content.
Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan extols Jan Carson’s collection of short stories, ‘Quickly, While They Still Have Horses’, as it encapsulates all the aspects she cherishes about Carson’s books. The first bookstore she entered upon relocating to Ireland in 2012 was The Gutter Bookshop, which remains her favourite, she expresses warm appreciation towards Bob and Marta. Drawing from her arts management training and personal journey as a neurodivergent, migrant writer, her handbook entry provides viable steps and guidance for artists in Ireland.
Daragh Fleming’s treasured literary works include ‘Illusions’ by Richard Back and ‘Bodies’ by Christine Ann Foley. Having sourced his reading material from Waterstones Cork since his younger years, it enjoys an enduring presence in his life. His handbook entry underlines the importance of mental health, given the solitary nature of writing.
David Butler greatly respects Mike McCormack’s ‘Solar Bones’ for its astute investigation of the junctions between individual and communal, as well as domestic and political aspects. He appreciates Books Upstairs for its ongoing support towards smaller Irish publishers and journals. His contribution to the handbook, while specifically addressing stage writing, endeavours to highlight the fundamental economy that underpins the successful dramatic depiction of character and plot, across all genres.
Niall McArdle
William Trevor’s volume of narratives is a compelling anthology filled with timeless tales written over several years, each a testament to the art of subtle and precise storytelling. During my time in Ireland, I used to take shelter at Greene’s under its leafy covering on rainy days, browsing through the neatly arranged stalls. Living overseas for a few years, I then returned home, only to find the bookshop had been replaced. The unexpected disappearance caused a deep sense of loss, causing me to find solace and recovery inside the National Gallery. In the vicinity of that area was another Dublin landmark, Fred Hanna’s, where I had previously worked under the watchful eyes of Fred himself.
In the guidebook, I have contributed an article. Recounting stories has been a part of human tradition for thousands of years before they were penned down. After all, stories are meant to be shared, and even as we read them silently, we imagine the character’s and narrator’s voices. My article focuses on writing for the radio, hoping to remind writers about the importance of maintaining attentiveness towards sound, rhythm, and tone.
Jackie Lynam
Humanity is examined in Rónán Hession’s exceptional novel, the hauntingly beautiful ‘Ghost Mountain’. It’s a unique read, radiating humour and poignancy, a standout amongst all the books I’ve read this year. Dublin boasts many remarkable bookstores; I’ve bought, browsed, and attended splendid events at several of them over the years. Books Upstairs, an independent bookstore on D’Olier Street, holds a special corner of my heart for they fervently champion new authors. I have been fortunate enough to recite my poems there, and they also graciously feature my book ‘Traces’.
It is my hope that my article in the guidebook prompts individuals to embrace their creative pursuits while recognising the inviting and constructive setting public libraries offer.
Jamie O’Connell
Elizabeth Gilbert’s ‘Big Magic’ is an ideal book for those longing to embark on a creative journey or to forte into writing. She illustrates the artistic push in ways that resonated deeply with my personal experiences.
A highlight of visiting bookstores for me has always been engaging in conversations with Irish booksellers. It offers the opportune moment to connect with other bibliophiles. Although I am intrinsically an introvert, posing the question “What are you currently engrossed in?” acts as an effortless ice breaker. The charm I find in this personal and spontaneous technique of discovering a fresh novel far surpasses any online platform. It enhances the chances of my encountering a book that will captivate my interest.
I anticipate that those perusing the guide will comprehend that crafting a novel only constitutes half the endeavour – the emergence of commendable prose lies in the editing process. To modify a statement by Proust – we don’t peruse books, instead we probe into ourselves. My aspiration is for prospective authors to identify with their personal narrative in the way I portray my innovative journey, thereby establishing a connection.