5 must-reads we can’t wait for this autumn

Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney 

Sally Rooney’s highly anticipated new novel forgoes the surrounds of Trinity and instead focuses on four friends with bigger problems – they must navigate the pressures of work and relationships against the backdrop of political turmoil and economic uncertainty.

Faber & Faber, approx €13.99, out September 7

Comrades: A lifetime of Friendships by Rosita Boland

The award-winning journalist has penned a beautiful collection of essays about the many friendships (both real and imaginary) that have shaped her life, brought companionship and joy, as well as those she lost.

Doubleday, approx €16.99, out September 30

Life Without Children by Roddy Doyle

In a collection that is as timely as anything from Doyle, he has written an eye-opening portrait of our pandemic lives, told in the form of short stories. A collective look at life changed for everyone during Covid, as only this Irish writer knows how. 

Vintage, approx €14.99, out October 7

The Opposite of Butterfly Hunting by Evanna Lynch

Irish actress and activist Evanna Lynch pens a compelling new memoir in which she details her highs and lows; the “messiness of adulthood” as she calls it. From her star-making turn as Luna Lovegood in Harry Potter to her anorexia recovery and pursuit of creativity.   

Headline, approx €12.99, out October 14

 Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout

We return to the beloved Lucy Barton, now a successful writer living in New York, navigating the second half of her life as a widow and parent to two adult daughters. A surprise encounter leads her to reconnect with William, her first husband- and longtime, on-again-off-again friend.

Viking, approx €17.99, out October 21