Barbara R. Barry

Kevin Barry, born in 1969, is an Irish writer recognized for his prolific output of short story collections and novels. His novel 'City of Bohane' garnered significant international acclaim, winning the 2013 International Dublin Literary Award. Further recognition came with 'Beatlebone' winning the 2015 Goldsmiths Prize and 'Night Boat to Tangier' being longlisted for the Booker Prize in 2019. Barry also contributes to the literary world as an editor of the arts and culture annual 'Winter Papers'.

Barry's early life involved frequent travel, moving between numerous addresses before settling in Sligo. His decision to establish a home base was influenced by the logistical challenges of relocating his extensive book collection. He has spoken candidly about his ambitious nature and desire for reader adoration, alongside a self-deprecating yet revealing self-assessment of his ego. His writing journey includes early experiments, such as writing a novel in a caravan, and a dedication to his craft evident in his pursuit of literary recognition.

Kevin Barry's literary career has been marked by critical success and numerous accolades. His debut novel, 'City of Bohane' (2011), brought him widespread attention, culminating in the prestigious International Dublin Literary Award in 2013. This was followed by 'Beatlebone' (2015), which secured the Goldsmiths Prize, and 'Night Boat to Tangier' (2019), a nominee for the Booker Prize. Barry is also known for his short story collections, including 'There Are Little Kingdoms' (2007), for which he received the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature. His work is often characterized by a unique vernacular and vibrant, sometimes malevolent characters, as noted by award juries. He is also an editor for 'Winter Papers', an annual publication focused on arts and culture.

Born in Limerick, Barry experienced a nomadic childhood, living in many different locations before eventually settling in Sligo. The practicalities of moving a substantial personal library influenced his decision to establish a permanent residence. Barry has described his own personality with a mix of self-awareness and hyperbole, referring to himself as an "egomaniac" driven by insecurity and a strong desire for reader appreciation. He has expressed high ambitions for his literary career, even mentioning the Nobel Prize as a future goal. His dedication to writing is evident in his early experiences, such as dedicating six months to writing a novel while living in a caravan in West Cork.

“a raving egomaniac”

“monstrous creatures who are composed 99 percent of sheer, unadulterated ego”

“hugely insecure and desperate to be loved and I want my reader to adore me, to a disturbing, stalkerish degree.”

“I won't be happy until I'm up there, receiving the Nobel Prize”

“haunting bookshops and hiding”