Join us for a special Author Talk with acclaimed writer Gail McConnell, hosted by the British Council. Moving beyond a traditional book discussion, this session features Gail in an engaging conversation with a distinguished guest (to be confirmed) — a fellow author, a notable alumnus, or one of our senior colleagues who shares a deep passion for literature.
Together, we will explore Gail’s creative process, the inspirations behind her work, and the themes that shape her writing.
Following the conversation, participants will have the opportunity to connect directly with Gail through an open Q&A — asking questions, sharing reflections, and engaging in meaningful dialogue.
About the author: Gail McConnell is a writer and academic from Belfast. Her debut poetry book, The Sun is Open (Penned in the Margins, 2021), about her father’s murder by the IRA, won The John Pollard Foundation International Poetry Award and The Christopher Ewart-Biggs Memorial Prize. A Swedish translation was published by Rámus förlag in 2025. Gail has also published Northern Irish Poetry and Theology and two poetry pamphlets – Fothermather and Fourteen – and, as editor, The Brimming World: Selected Essays by Ciaran Carson (forthcoming from Gallery in 2025). Gail received the Major Artist Award from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and has made two arts features based on her poetry and one on Seamus Heaney for BBC Radio 4. Gail is Reader in English at Queen’s University Belfast.
What to Expect?
- Insightful conversation with Gail McConnell on her books and creative journey
- A thought-provoking dialogue between Gail and a special guest
- Interactive Q&A with the audience
- A space to exchange ideas around literature, storytelling, and authorship
Date: Friday 12 December 2025
Time: 11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. (UTC) , click here to convert to your local time
Location: Online
Who can join?
Members and non-members above 18 years.
For more information or queries please write to digitallibrary@britishcouncil.org
Don’t miss this enriching literary experience — open to readers, writers, and anyone who enjoys meaningful conversations about books and ideas.