The 2024 An Post Irish Book Awards, held on November 27, celebrated the finest in Irish literature, with Sally Rooney, Donal Ryan, and Graham Norton among the distinguished winners of the evening. Hosted at the Convention Centre in Dublin, the event brought together a vibrant community of authors, readers, booksellers, and publishers to honor the nation’s literary achievements.
Sally Rooney was named ‘Author of the Year,’ solidifying her status as one of Ireland’s leading literary voices. Donal Ryan’s Heart, Be at Peace claimed the prestigious ‘Eason Novel of the Year’ award, while Graham Norton’s Frankie was crowned ‘Ireland AM Popular Fiction Book of the Year.’ Broadcaster Hector Ó hEochagáin also took home an award for The Irish Words You Should Know, which won ‘Best Irish-Published Book of the Year.’
The crime fiction genre shone brightly with Jane Casey’s A Stranger in the Family earning the title of ‘Crime Fiction Book of the Year.’ Meanwhile, Seán Ronayne’s Nature Boy was recognized as ‘Biography of the Year,’ and Clair Wills’ Missing Persons, Or My Grandmother’s Secrets won the ‘Non-Fiction Book of the Year’ award. Former rugby union star Johnny Sexton also received the ‘Eason Sports Book of the Year’ award for his memoir Obsessed, and Irish Food History: A Companion by Máirtín Mac Con Iomaire and Dorothy Cashman took home the ‘Food & Drink Book of the Year’ award.
The ceremony also honored Paul Howard, creator of the Ross O’Carroll Kelly series, with a ‘Special Recognition Award’ for his significant contribution to Irish literature over the past 25 years. Additionally, author Martin Waddell received the ‘Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award’, making him the first children’s author to receive this prestigious honor. Known for Owl Babies and the Little Bear series, Waddell’s works have touched generations of readers.
The evening showcased a diverse range of genres, highlighting the incredible depth and vibrancy of Irish literary talent today. As the excitement builds, the overall An Post Irish Book of the Year 2024 winner will be revealed in a special one-hour television program, hosted by Oliver Callan, on RTÉ One on December 19.
Here’s the full list of 2024 An Post Irish Book Awards winners!
Words by Khushboo Malhotra