Ballinasloe author's novel chosen for 'One Book One Dublin' initiative

A novel about Nora Barnacle, written by the renowned Ballinasloe-based author Nuala O'Connor, has been selected by Dublin City Council for its 'One Dublin One Book' initiative in 2022.

Nora: A Love Story of Nora Barnacle and James Joyce was published earlier this year and is the fifth novel by Nuala, an award-winning writer of novels, short stories and poetry.

The author is originally from Dublin but has been living in Ballinasloe with her family for many years and is part of the Group 8 artists' collective in the town.

The selection of Nora as next year's choice for One Dublin One Book was announced by Dublin City Council this morning (Tuesday).

"One Dublin One Book aims to encourage everyone in Dublin to read a designated book connected with the capital city during the month of April every year," said the local authority.

Dublin City Librarian, Mairead Owens, commented: "Every year we choose a book that we hope will capture the imaginations of the people of Dublin, of all ages and walks of life, and I know that Nora will prove a rewarding reading experience for all who engage with 'One Dublin One Book' 2022.

For the centenary of the publication of Ulysses, it’s important for us to honour the contemporary writers Joyce has inspired, as well as the woman who inspired him. We look forward to working with Nuala O'Connor to create a programme of events next April that we hope will encourage many discussions and conversations.”

Reacting to the selection of her book, Nuala O'Connor said: "I'm honoured and humbled that Dublin City Council has chosen Nora as its 'One Dublin One Book' read for 2022, the Ulysses centenary year.

"I imagine Nora Barnacle would be as pleased as I am to see her contribution to the life and work of James Joyce celebrated in this way.

"I'm a proud Dub and this wonderful opportunity has me really looking forward to engaging with library users and readers, all over my home city, in 2022."