Kiltimagh writers celebrate successful launch of first anthology

The literary talent of Kiltimagh and the surrounding area was celebrated in style as a capacity crowd gathered in Kiltimagh Museum for the launch of the first-ever ‘Kiltimagh Writers Review’, with so many people attending that many were left standing outside the venue in the brilliant sunshine.

The launch, held as part of this year's Coillte Come Home Festival, highlighted the growing strength of creative writing in the area and marked an important milestone for the local writing group, whose members have spent the past eighteen months meeting regularly to develop their work.

Published by Sinead McClure of The Calendar Road Press, the anthology is a collection of poetry, short stories, memoirs and reflective prose showcasing the imagination, creativity and diverse voices of local writers. The project was supported by Mayo County Library, Kiltimagh Library and Mayo County Council Arts Office.

Speaking to the Western People at the launch, poet and contributor Terry McDonagh described the anthology as the culmination of a year and a half of writing sessions in Kiltimagh Library. He explained that the publication reflects the wide variety of work produced by the group, including poetry, short stories, memoirs and mini-sagas, providing a snapshot of the creative journey undertaken since the group was established.

Terry said fourteen writers ultimately contributed to the publication, although a larger number had been involved in the writing group. He explained that contributors selected what they felt were their strongest pieces for inclusion, creating what he described as an excellent balance of prose and poetry. He also confirmed that the anthology is available through Amazon and will also be stocked in bookshops throughout Mayo.

The publication brings together the work of fourteen contributors, each offering a distinctive literary voice. The writers featured are Terry McDonagh, Chris Glavey, Marian Prendergast, Bernadette Carroll, Déaglán de Priondargás, Tim Robinson, Michael Scanlon, Breda Freeley, Patti McNicholas, Monica Browne, Máire Ní Ruairc, Breda McCarthy, Mary Fallon and Joy Phibbs Bermingham. Together, their work reflects a rich diversity of experience, imagination and connection to place, creating an anthology that celebrates both individual creativity and the strength of a shared literary tradition.

Publisher Sinead McClure, founder of the South Sligo-based Calendar Road Press, outlined the process of bringing the anthology from manuscript to finished publication.

“Terry McDonagh initially approached me about publishing the collection,” Ms McClure told the Western People. “I went about the extensive editing, typesetting and proofreading process after that, before the final version was approved by the group.” 

Ms McClure said the project took approximately four months to complete and involved numerous revisions to ensure the finished book met the group's expectations. She praised the organisation of the material, especially the work of Bernadette Carroll in preparing the manuscript for publication.

“The book has been published using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing system, allowing copies to be printed on demand while also enabling the writers' group to order author copies for local sales,” she said. 

Ms McClure confirmed that support from Mayo County Council and the library service had played an important role in helping bring the project to life.

“The anthology features cover artwork by renowned artist Sally McKenna and includes an introduction from recently retired Kiltimagh librarian Bridie Wimsey,” she said. “The collection offers something for every reader and reflects the belief that everyone has a story worth telling.” 

The launch reflected that sentiment. Throughout the evening, contributors read extracts from their work while family, friends and members of the public gathered to celebrate the event. 

The book is a significant addition to Kiltimagh's growing cultural and literary capital. Judging by the remarkable attendance and the enthusiasm shown on the afternoon, the group has made an impressive debut, providing a lasting showcase of the talent, imagination and storytelling that continues to flourish in the community.