Donal Ryan wins 2024 Irish Book of the Year for 'Heart, Be at Peace'

Donal Ryan has won the 2024 An Post Irish Book of the Year award for his novel 'Heart, Be at Peace'. This book, which deals with grief and healing, was chosen from six titles that were category winners at the recent Irish Book Awards. This marks Ryan's second win of the award, having previously won in 2012 for 'The Spinning Heart'. 'Heart, Be at Peace' features 21 characters and can be read on its own or alongside his earlier work. The award ceremony was broadcast on RTÉ 1, with the award presented by broadcaster Oliver Callan. Ryan, a lecturer in creative writing, lives in County Limerick with his family.