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Voices: A Story for Everyone


A very special anthology of short stories hit shelves in September 2020, marking both International Literacy Day on September 8, and the 40th anniversary of the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA). 

‘Voices’ is the latest in the Open-Door series, edited by Irish author Patricia Scanlan. 

Featuring stories from some of Ireland’s most beloved writers, this beautiful collection is designed to be accessible to readers of all levels. 

According to NALA, one in six Irish adults find everyday pieces of text hard to read and understand. A further 37% may have difficulties with more complex copy, like a full-length novel. With that in mind, ‘Voices’ is written in plain English, helping emerging readers gain confidence in their abilities while familiarising themselves with some of our finest wordsmiths.

Among the writers who’ve contributed to ‘Voices’ are iconic Dubliner Roddy Doyle, TV personality Graham Norton, podcaster and comedian Blindboy, broadcaster turned author Rachael English, and travel writer Úna-Minh Kavanagh. As well as editing this instalment of Open Door (which she founded in the late ‘90s with New Island publisher Edwin Higel), Patricia Scanlan also contributes a special story of her own to ‘Voices’. 

A special addition to bookshelves, the release of ‘Voices’ comes after the story of NALA student, Veronica Poole, moved audiences across Ireland last year after she shared the story of her return to education.

Featured in a special video documentary shot by award-winning film-maker, Ken Wardrop, audiences followed Veronica as she took on the challenge of drafting a speech to share on stage in front of attendant guests and TV viewers before presenting an award at the annual An Post Irish Book Awards.

As long-time advocates for literacy and promoting the joy of reading and writing to all, An Post are proud to continue to support NALA.

Be sure to pick up a copy of Voices, priced at just €9.95, available in all good bookshops and online.

Check out Veronica’s story below.

Find more book recommendations on our ReadersWanted hub. As always, share your favourite books, authors or stories with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter - using #ReadersWanted. 
 

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