Between school runs and bedtime stories, we're always on the lookout for a good book recommendation. The An Post Irish Book Awards has just made that search a whole lot easier by unveiling their top 60 Irish books from the past two decades.
To celebrate their 20th anniversary, the awards have curated a stellar list featuring 20 fiction, 20 non-fiction and 20 children's titles. It's like having Ireland's best literary minds create the ultimate reading list for you.
Books That'll Have You Turning Pages Past Bedtime
The list reads like a who's who of Irish writing. You'll find familiar names like Roddy Doyle, Emma Donoghue and Claire Keegan alongside rising stars like Louise Kennedy and Andrea Mara. There's something for every mum's taste, whether you're into gripping fiction during those rare quiet moments or need a laugh from Paul Howard's latest.
What makes this list special is how it was chosen. Leading booksellers nationwide voted on winners from the Irish Book Awards since 2006, so these aren't just critical darlings but books that actually fly off the shelves.
The children's section is particularly exciting for families. With 20 carefully selected titles, you'll have plenty of ammunition for those "Mum, I've nothing to read" moments during the holidays.
Your Vote Counts (And You Might Win Something Too)
Here's where it gets interactive. The public voting is underway right now to narrow down these 60 books to the top 20 favourites. You can cast your vote at anpostirishbookawards.ie until 6pm on 13th April.
Everyone who votes gets entered into a prize draw with some lovely rewards. We're talking €100 in National Book Tokens (hello, guilt-free book shopping), a selection of books from the list, and tickets to this year's An Post Irish Book Awards ceremony. Not a bad return for five minutes of clicking.
Alastair Giles, CEO of the Irish Book Awards, explains the significance: "This curated list of 60 books offers a snapshot of some of the most memorable and influential titles recognised by the awards since 2006, reflecting the exceptional talent that has shaped Irish literature over the past two decades."
Why This Matters for Irish Families
The An Post Irish Book Awards has been championing Irish writing for two decades now, and it shows in the quality of work being produced. From debut novelists to seasoned poets, the awards celebrate 18 different categories including everything from crime fiction to Irish language works.
David McRedmond, CEO at An Post, notes: "The top-60 books over the period of the awards have delighted and inspired readers, and this opportunity to revisit them is the best way to celebrate Irish writing."
The awards have also honoured literary legends through their Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award. Past recipients include names that'll take you back to school English classes: Séamus Heaney, Maeve Binchy, John McGahern and Edna O'Brien.
Bookshops across Ireland are getting in on the celebration too, with special displays featuring the 60 selected titles. It's the perfect excuse for a browse while the kids are at school.
The final top 20 will be revealed on 19th April, giving book lovers across Ireland their definitive reading list for the year ahead. Whether you're looking to rediscover an old favourite or find your next page-turner, this anniversary celebration is serving up Irish literature at its finest.
