Colin Barrett

Colin Barrett is an Irish author known for his critically acclaimed short fiction. Born in Canada in 1982, he was raised in County Mayo, Ireland, where he spent much of his youth immersed in Gaelic football and local culture. His debut collection, "Young Skins", won the 2014 Frank O'Connor International Short Story Award and the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, establishing him as a distinctive voice in contemporary literature. The book, praised for its vivid portrayal of rural Irish life, was also shortlisted for the Guardian First Book Award.

Barrett completed his MA in Creative Writing at University College Dublin in 2009, where he received the Penguin Ireland Prize. His stories have appeared in "The Stinging Fly" and anthologies such as "Sharp Sticks, Driven Nails" and "Town and Country", showcasing his sharp, lyrical prose and unflinching exploration of youth, masculinity, and small-town dynamics. His work often delves into the lives of marginalized characters, blending dark humor with poignant realism.

With a growing reputation as one of Ireland's most compelling short story writers, Barrett continues to garner acclaim for his precise storytelling and evocative narratives. His second collection, "Homesickness", further solidified his place in literary circles, earning widespread praise for its depth and emotional resonance. He remains an influential figure in modern Irish fiction.