Menu
Looking for the best Irish books to read in 2025? You're in the right place.
The An Post Irish Book of the Year 2025 – the most prestigious prize in Irish literature. Let's take a closer look at the six extraordinary titles competing for the honour.
These aren’t just critically acclaimed books – they’re the titles that captured the imagination of Irish readers this year, emerging as standout winners across the An Post Irish Book Awards. In other words, these are Ireland’s favourite books of 2025.
Whether you're searching for your next great read, looking to support Irish authors, or simply want to know what everyone's talking about, here's your guide to the nominations.
Nesting – Roisín O'Donnell
On an ordinary spring afternoon in Dublin, Ciara Fay makes a split-second decision that will change her life forever. Grabbing her two young daughters, she drives away from home – because home is no longer safe.
What begins as an escape soon becomes a battle for survival, as Ciara finds herself trapped in Ireland's broken housing system, raising her children in a hotel room. Nesting is a devastating and deeply human story about motherhood, resilience, and the lengths we go to protect those we love. Winner of the Eason Novel of the Year, this is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand modern Ireland.
The Ghosts of Rome – Joseph O'Connor
February 1944. Nazi forces occupy Rome. Contessa Giovanna Landini works covertly with the Escape Line network known as "The Choir," smuggling refugees and aiding Allied soldiers while evading the brutal Gestapo.
When a mysterious parachutist drops into the city and vanishes into Rome's backstreets, his arrival threatens to expose the entire network. Joseph O'Connor delivers a masterclass in historical fiction – gripping, atmospheric, and deeply moving. The second instalment in his acclaimed Escape Line Trilogy, following the bestselling My Father's House.
A Time for Truth – Sarah Corbett Lynch
In the early hours of 2nd August 2015, eight-year-old Sarah was carried from her bed by a police officer, unaware that her father Jason had been killed by her stepmother and step-grandfather.
In this searing memoir, Sarah recounts the hidden reality of life inside their North Carolina household, the traumatic aftermath of her father's death, and her family's fight for justice. A Time for Truth is a powerful testament to resilience, healing, and the enduring love of family. Winner of the Dubray Biography of the Year.
Heart on My Sleeve – Andrew Porter
From losing his mother to breast cancer at just twelve years old, to battling mental health struggles throughout his teens, Andrew Porter's journey is one of extraordinary resilience.
In this deeply personal memoir, the Irish rugby star opens up about the challenges that shaped him – on and off the pitch. With 75 caps for Ireland and three Six Nations titles to his name, Porter proves that true strength isn't just physical. Winner of the Eason Sports Book of the Year.
Solo – Gráinne O'Brien
Daisy is a passionate classical musician whose first love is music – and whose second was David. This novel in verse follows her through heartbreak, a best friend's betrayal, and her father's illness during her final year of school.
Feeling sidelined at home and isolated at school, Daisy struggles to reconnect with the music that once anchored her. But when an unexpected friendship enters her life, she begins to rediscover her voice. A beautiful, lyrical debut that will resonate with readers of all ages. Winner of the International Education Services Teen and Young Adult Book of the Year, in honour of John Treacy.
Ninety-Nine Words for Rain (and One for Sun) – Manchán Magan, illustrated by Megan Luddy
What can the Irish language teach us about the weather – and about ourselves?
This beautifully illustrated book uses Irish words to explore the rich, lost world of weather wisdom. Manchán Magan draws on terms from historical cloud-watchers and stargazers who observed nature for signs of change, revealing a past wisdom that remains deeply relevant today. A gorgeous celebration of Irish heritage, language, and our connection to the natural world. Winner of TheJournal.ie Best Irish-Published Book of the Year.
But what about the winner?
A distinguished judging panel chooses one of these six books to be crowned An Post Irish Book of the Year 2025, with the winner revealed during a special one-hour programme on RTÉ One hosted by Oliver Callan.
But whoever takes home the title, one thing is certain: these six books represent the very best of Irish writing in 2025. If you're looking for your next great read, you can't go wrong with any of them.
You can catch up and watch the TV show now on RTE Player HERE.