Are you missing out on this decade's writing sensation?
You may have watched the hit show Normal People during lockdown in 2020, but do you know its Irish author? Sally Rooney has just published her fourth novel, Intermezzo. Irish bookshops had to open early to meet demand, with one seller comparing the excitement to a Harry Potter release.
Although she hasn't spearheaded this generation of Irish writers, Rooney has brought new attention to Ireland's rich writing tradition. Her success is hard to match: her books have been translated into over 40 languages, with over 6 million copies sold in English alone. At 33, Rooney has already become a cultural phenomenon.
Rooney isn't just any writer; she consistently voices her opinions on political issues. For instance, she refused an Israeli edition of her third book in support of the pro-Palestinian boycott. Her novels reflect her political awareness, their success stemming from her exploration of modern troubles, such as mental health and the struggles of young people.