Anne Walsh Donnelly writes prose, poetry and plays. Originally from Carlow in the south-east of Ireland, she now lives in Mayo in the west of Ireland.

She is the author of “He Used To Be Me”, published by New Island Books in February 2024. The book tells the story of Daft Matt, as he wanders the streets of Castlebar in search of the claw marks of the cága, or jackdaws, who have spoken to him since he was a boy.

 In lyrical prose, Walsh Donnelly explores the complex workings of Matt’s inner life: how he deals with the loss of his twin brother as a child, navigates the carefree days of early manhood and copes with the aftermath of the horseriding accident that would see him incarcerated in the care system for the next thirty years. Richly imagined and beautifully written, this is a story for anyone who chooses to look beyond the surface of things.

“He Used To Be Me” can be purchased in all good bookshops and online.

Her other books include, ‘The Woman With An Owl Tattoo,’ and the poetry collection, ‘Odd as F*ck,’ both published by Fly on the Wall press and available to buy on this website.

Anne says, “I experiment, take risks, run wild on the page, always hoping my work will resonate with the reader. I explore the rural Irish experience in my  writing and write to give voice to the voice-less.”

Anne loves to read her work and talk about all things creative. She is available for public readings, podcasts, festivals and interviews.