The Last Word Listeners' Choice Award

Winner 2024

The Last Disco by Sean Murray, Christine Bohan & Nicky Ryan

The Last Disco: The story of the Stardust tragedy

By Sean Murray, Christine Bohan & Nicky Ryan

In 1981, the Stardust nightclub in Dublin was a beacon for the city’s nightlife – until it became a nightmare. On that fateful Valentine’s Day the dance floor became a scene of horror, as flames engulfed the venue, claiming the lives of 48 young people and leaving the survivors scarred forever. In this gripping account the harrowing true story is revealed, citing new evidence brought forward during recent inquests in the relentless pursuit of justice. Through the eyes of the survivors, the families and investigators, compiled with meticulous research and compassionate portrayals of their voices, this poignant book honours the memories of those who were lost, while shedding light on the tragedy that still shocks the nation to this day.

About Sean Murray, Christine Bohan & Nicky Ryan...

Sean Murray is a News Reporter with the Irish Examiner, having previously worked at RTÉ and The Journal, where he co-produced and presented the award-winning Stardust podcast. 

Christine Bohan is the Deputy Editor of The Journal. She was the Executive Producer of the Stardust podcast.

Nicky Ryan is Senior Media Producer with The Journal and Producer of the Stardust, Redacted Lives and The Explainer podcasts. He is a two-time winner of the Mary Raftery Prize for social affairs journalism.

Explore the 2024 winners

Irish Independent Crime Fiction Book of the Year
Sunday Independent Newcomer of the Year
Eason Novel of the Year
Ireland AM Popular Fiction Book of the Year
Library Association of Ireland Author of the Year
TheJournal.ie Best Irish-Published Book of the Year
WHSmith Non-Fiction Book of the Year
Hodges Figgis History Book of the Year
Dubray Biography of the Year
Bookselling Ireland Food & Drink Book of the Year
Bookstation Lifestyle Book of the Year
Eason Sports Book of the Year
Specsavers Children's Book of the Year (Junior)
Specsavers Children's Book of the Year (Senior)
Teen & Young Adult Book of the Year
Gradam Love Leabhar Gaeilge Leabhar Ficsin Gaeilge na Bliana
New Irish Writing Best Poetry in association with the Irish Independent
New Irish Writing Best Short Story in association with the Irish Independent