Donal Ryan Wins 2024 An Post Irish Book of the Year Award
Irish author Donal Ryan Wins Prestigious Book Award for Second Time
Dublin, Ireland – Acclaimed Irish novelist Donal Ryan has once again claimed the coveted An Post Irish Book of the Year award for his poignant novel, “Heart, Be at Peace.” This marks Ryan’s second victory in the prestigious competition, following his win in 2012 wiht his debut novel, “The Spinning Heart.”
Ryan’s latest masterpiece, a deeply moving exploration of grief, healing, and the intricate tapestry of human emotions, was chosen from a shortlist of six exceptional titles, all category winners at the 2024 an Post Irish Book Awards.
“Heart, Be at Peace” captivates readers through the voices of 21 distinct characters, weaving a lyrical narrative that resonates with the complexities of modern irish society.
[Image of “Heart, Be at Peace” book cover]
Maria Dickenson, chair of the judging panel, praised Ryan’s work, stating, “Donal Ryan’s writing has earned him a place among the greatest names in Irish literature and this lyrical novel speaks to the very heart of modern Irish society.”
Dickenson further emphasized the unanimous decision of the judges, highlighting the exceptional quality of the shortlisted titles. “Weaving 21 voices together, Ryan portrays the passions, frailties and sorrows of one Irish town with compassion and clarity. ‘Heart, Be at Peace’ is a masterful achievement and we congratulate Donal warmly on winning this award.”
The award ceremony, broadcast on RTÉ 1 television and presented by broadcaster Oliver callan, celebrated the richness and diversity of Irish literature.
Ryan, a native of Nenagh, Co Tipperary, currently lectures in creative writing at the University of Limerick and resides with his family outside limerick city.His works have garnered international acclaim, translated into over 20 languages.The other shortlisted titles for the An Post irish Book of the Year award included:
“Fia and the Last Snow Deer” by Eilish Fisher, illustrated by dermot Flynn
”Frankie” by Graham Norton
“A Stranger in the Family” by Jane Casey
“Obsessed: The Autobiography” by Johnny Sexton with Peter O’Reilly
* “Nature Boy: A Journey of Birdsong and Belonging” by Seán Ronayne
Donal Ryan: A Double Victory and The Heart of Modern Ireland
Dublin, Ireland - Irish novelist Donal Ryan has achieved a remarkable feat, claiming the prestigious An Post Irish Book of the Year award for the second time with his powerful novel, “Heart, Be at Peace.” This victory echoes his triumph in 2012 with his debut novel,”The Spinning Heart,” solidifying his position as a literary powerhouse.
“Heart, Be at Peace” navigates the complex themes of grief, healing, and the multifaceted nature of human emotions through the unique voices of 21 interconnected characters. This lyrical tapestry,capturing the intricacies of modern Irish society,resonated deeply with the judging panel,who unanimously selected it as the winner.
Maria Dickenson, the chair of the judging panel, lauded ryan’s work, stating, “Donal Ryan’s writing has earned him a place among the greatest names in Irish literature and this lyrical novel speaks to the very heart of modern Irish society.”
Dickenson emphasized the extraordinary quality of all shortlisted titles,highlighting the breadth and depth of Irish literary talent. She praised Ryan’s novel for its masterful weaving of 21 voices, portraying the “passions, frailties and sorrows of one Irish town with compassion and clarity.”
The award ceremony, broadcast on RTÉ 1 television, celebrated the richness and diversity of Irish literature. Ryan, a native of Nenagh, Co Tipperary, currently lectures in creative writing at the University of Limerick and resides with his family outside Limerick City. His works have garnered international acclaim, translated into over 20 languages.
The other shortlisted titles for the An Post Irish Book of the Year award included:
“Fia and the Last Snow Deer” by Eilish Fisher, illustrated by Dermot Flynn
”Frankie” by Graham Norton
“A Stranger in the Family” by Jane Casey
“Obsessed: The Autobiography” by Johnny Sexton with Peter O’reilly
* “Nature Boy: A Journey of Birdsong and Belonging” by Seán Ronayne.