The Bookshelf with Ryan Tubridy

Ryan recommends Where Are the Kings by Donal Ryan, a collection of stories about love, loss, family and the ties that bind people together. Beautifully observed and full of humanity, it’s a reminder of why Donal Ryan is one of Ireland’s most acclaimed contemporary writers. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marco Pierre White is a chef, restaurateur and author who became the youngest chef to be awarded three Michelin stars at the age of 33. One of the most influential figures in modern British cooking, he has trained and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan recommends The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, a beautiful novel told through the letters, emails, texts and cards exchanged over one woman’s life. If you haven’t read a book in a while and want to get back into reading, this might be the perfect place to start. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hector Ó hEochagáin is a television and radio presenter, podcaster and author. He has spent more than 25 years travelling the world for his television programmes and is one of Ireland’s best-known champions of the Irish language. His new book, Irish Words for Every Occasion: Conversations in Irish for Everyday of Your Life, completes his award-winning and bestselling trilogy. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan recommends London Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe, the gripping true story of the mysterious death of 19-year-old Zac Brettler. A compelling real-life mystery told with all the intrigue of a spy thriller. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lorraine Kelly is a journalist, television presenter and Sunday Times bestselling author. One of the most familiar faces on British television, she has built a career spanning broadcasting, documentaries and writing. Her latest novel, The Island Secret, follows the success of her bestselling debut, The Island Swimmer. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan returns with a brand-new season filled with more brilliant guests. Starts Tuesday, 29th September! New episodes every Tuesday. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan has big Bookshelf Live news, including why the Christmas matinée could be the most chaotic show yet. He also champions John Boyne’s brilliant new book, reveals what the Gogglebox crew did to his house, shares the latest on the podcast's new season, and offers plenty more great book, film, and TV recommendations. Fancy joining the chaos? Come along to our special Bookshelf Live Family Matinée at the Pavilion Theatre, Dún Laoghaire, on Friday 11 December. Show starts at 4pm. Tickets available at paviliontheatre.ie or (01) 231 2929. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan reveals why he’s finally said yes to Celebrity Gogglebox Ireland, who’ll be joining him on the sofa, and why he’s already cleaning the house like a lunatic. Plus, a rummage through his personal archive turns up letters from Maeve Binchy and photographs with Bono, Queen Elizabeth II, and plenty more familiar faces. There are new book recommendations, autumn enthusiasm, memories of the Orient Express, and the one person Ryan would still love to interview. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan squints back on eclipse night in Dublin, gives his verdict on the new Spider-Man, and prepares for his first-ever Parkrun. Plus a return to the Rose of Tralee after more than 20 years, why Donal Ryan is one of his favourite writers, and your film, TV, and reading recommendations. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan shares his joy at discovering the remarkable singer-songwriter Dave Lofts, thanks to a recommendation from his friend Russell Crowe. Plus, backstage encounters with Julianne Moore and Richard Armitage, a celebration of independent bookshops, and your questions on films, travel, books, biscuits, and boredom. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The unexpected news of Glen Hansard's death changed the direction of this week's Bookshelf Live. Ryan reflects on Glen's remarkable life, his generosity, his music and the legacy he leaves behind. Sharing personal memories and stories from listeners, Ryan pays tribute to one of Ireland's most beloved artists. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan’s rave review of The Odyssey, the case against cinema intervals, Bono’s neglected Vespa, adult nappies at concerts (yes, really), Korean food discoveries, Paul Howard’s latest political satire, and the extraordinary true story behind one of the darkest books Ryan has ever read. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan’s glowing review of Toy Story 5, why he’s counting down the hours until The Odyssey, and the Andy Serkis interview that led to an unexpected debate about why Caesar from Planet of the Apes has so many female admirers. Plus, Robert Harris’s latest historical epic, holiday reading recommendations, the crime novel built around Japan’s real-life “disappearing” agencies, and why your local charity bookshop might be the best place to discover your next great read. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan returns with stories from the Bookshelf Live tour, an unforgettable encounter with Joanna Lumley, and why Foyle’s War has become his latest obsession. Plus, his verdict on the summer’s biggest films, book recommendations to keep your summer reading list overflowing, and details of his charity bookshop takeover in aid of SVP. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The doomed Cork and Limerick road trip, Artemis II, celeb spotting at 30,000 feet, First Dates Ireland, Ryan’s book club recommendation of the month, Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke, and no one wants to see your holiday snaps! The Bookshelf Live tour: Cork Opera House - Thursday 30 April corkoperahouse.ie Lime Tree Theatre, Limerick - Thursday 7 May limetreebelltable.ie Town Hall Theatre, Galway - Tuesday 2 June - SOLD OUT 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin - Monday 8 June ticketmaster.ie Tickets on sale now. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A trip to Downing Street, an unexpected live call, a review of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, the return of the now malevolent Book Bot, and more! The Bookshelf Live tour: Cork Opera House - Thursday 30 April corkoperahouse.ie Lime Tree Theatre, Limerick - Thursday 7 May limetreebelltable.ie Town Hall Theatre, Galway - Tuesday 2 June tht.ie 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin - Monday 8 June ticketmaster.ie Tickets on sale now. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan returns to riff on: a printer for stupid people, laser eye surgery, three-hour theatre epics, BAFTA wins, Star Wars losing its way, and why short books might save your reading life. The Bookshelf Live tour: Cork Opera House - Thursday 30 April corkoperahouse.ie Lime Tree Theatre, Limerick - Thursday 7 May limetreebelltable.ie Town Hall Theatre, Galway - Tuesday 2 June tht.ie 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin - Monday 8 June ticketmaster.ie Tickets on sale now. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The debut live show sold out, so we’re taking The Bookshelf Live on tour. Join us: Cork Opera House - Thursday 30 April corkoperahouse.ie Lime Tree Theatre, Limerick - Thursday 7 May limetreebelltable.ie Town Hall Theatre, Galway - Tuesday 2 June tht.ie 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin - Monday 8 June ticketmaster.ie Tickets on sale now. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More great book recommendations, more linguistic pet peeves, bad pints in Oxford, celeb spotting in The Devonshire, and find out who will be our special guest at the sold out live show in March. This weeks recommended books include: Berlin Shuffle by Ulrich A. Boschwitz The Gamal by by Ciarán Collins Ithaca by Alan McMonagle Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha by Roddy Doyle. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the menu this week: Ryan's top 3 nautical reads: The Wager by David Grann, Madhouse at the End of the Earth by Julian Sancton, and The Stolen Village by Des Ekin. Also, Saipan and Seven Dials reviewed, 'Bookbot' is born, and why 'super' should be banned. Plus, details of the first ever 'Bookshelf Live' in the Pavilion Theatre, Dún Laoghaire, Friday March 27th. Tickets on sale this Friday at 10 a.m. from https://www.paviliontheatre.ie/ Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another Lunchtime live and lots more recommendations, including Ryan's book of the week The Director by Daniel Kehlmann, books that became exceptional films, including Atonement, Trainspotting, and The Remains of the Day, and what screen adaptations surpassed the original text. Details for the live show at the Pavilion Theatre, Dún Laoghaire coming very soon! Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's Lunchtime live special, Ryan gives his three books guaranteed to reignite your reading pleasure, reviews Hamnet and Pluribus, flexes on his cake making skills, and answers all your questions. Ryan's top 3 books to get you back into reading: All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque The Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean-Dominique Bauby Stasiland by Anna Funder Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan recommends books to look forward to in 2026, and answers all your questions in this live special. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura Dowling is a pharmacist, women’s health advocate, entrepreneur, and the creator of the hugely popular platform The Fabulous Pharmacist. Her new book, Love Your Vulva, is a straight-talking guide to women’s health at every stage of life. Contains adult themes and strong language. Season finale. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Norah Patten is an aeronautical engineer, STEM advocate, author, and future astronaut with Virgin Galactic. Set to become the first Irish person in space, she has spent over a decade working in commercial space research, microgravity testing, and international space education. She is also the award-winning author of Shooting for the Stars. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conor Murray is a recently retired international rugby player. For more than a decade, he wore the No.9 jersey for Munster, Ireland, and the British & Irish Lions. His career includes 5 Six Nations titles, 2 Grand Slams, 125 caps for Ireland, and three tours with the Lions. His new memoir, Cloud Nine: My Life in Rugby, is available now. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this live special, Ryan shares his favourite fiction and non-fiction books and authors of 2025. Fiction: The Book of Guilt by Catherine Chidgey The names by Florence Knapp Fair Play by Louise Hegarty Nesting by Roisín O’Donnell, Wellness by Nathan Hill Marble Hall Murders by Anthony Horowitz The Wildelings by Lisa Harding The Elements by John Boyne It Should Have Been You by Andrea Mara The Black Wolf by Louise Penny The Ghosts of Rome by Joseph O’ Connor In Memoriam by Alice Winn One of Us by Elizabeth Day The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer by Ragnar Jónasson Non-Fiction: The Zorg by Siddharth Kara The Einstein Vendetta by Thomas Harding Remnants of Our Past by Deirdre O’Neill Wings by Paul McCartney The Walking Effect by Karl Henry Three Castles Burning: A History of Dublin in Twelve Streets by Donal Fallon 2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America by Josh Dawsey, Tyler Pager, and Isaac Arnsdorf Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anna Haugh is an award-winning chef, restaurateur, author, and television presenter. She’s the founder of Myrtle Restaurant in London, which celebrates modern Irish cuisine with a contemporary twist. In September 2025, Anna was announced as a new judge on the BBC One show MasterChef. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Miriam O’Callaghan has been a leading voice in Irish broadcasting for over three decades, renowned for her sharp journalism, warmth, and integrity. A qualified solicitor before turning to the media, she has covered major national and international stories, earning multiple awards and honours, including honorary doctorates. Her new memoir, Miriam: Life, Work, Everything, is available now. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeffrey Archer is one of the most widely read and enduring storytellers in the world. His novels and short stories have sold over 300 million copies, being published in 119 countries and translated into 47 languages. A former politician and lifelong philanthropist, he has raised more than £50 million for various charities. His latest novel, End Game, marks the thrilling finale of his acclaimed William Warwick series. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alice Leahy is co-founder and Director of Services at the Alice Leahy Trust, supporting people who are homeless. A former nurse, writer, and Human Rights Commissioner, she helped establish Ireland’s first intensive care unit. Through her work, books, and documentaries, Alice has been a leading advocate for those on the margins of society. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hugh Bonneville is an actor and author, best known to millions worldwide as Lord Grantham in Downton Abbey and Henry Brown in the beloved Paddington films. His new children’s novel, Rory Sparkes and the Elephant in the Room, has just been published. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Doran is a comedian, podcaster, writer, and social media sensation. She’s the author of the critically acclaimed memoir Mad Isn’t It? and she's currently touring Ireland and the UK with her biggest show to date, Immaculate. Contains strong language and adult themes. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colm Tóibín is one of Ireland’s most celebrated writers. He’s the author of eleven novels, including Brooklyn, The Master, and The Magician. Known for his quiet emotion and vivid storytelling, Tóibín is also a playwright, essayist, and recent Laureate for Irish Fiction. His new release, Ship in Full Sail, a rich collection of essays and lectures, is available now. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Tallant is one of Ireland’s most respected crime journalists. Best known for her fearless investigations into organised crime and her hugely successful Crime World podcast. Her latest book, ‘Groomed: Coercion, Control and a Cold Blooded Murder’, has just been released. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo Varadkar served as Taoiseach of Ireland (prime minister) from 2017 to 2020 and again from 2022 to 2024. He was Ireland’s youngest ever Taoiseach in 2017, and the first openly gay person and first person of colour to hold the office. He resigned in 2024 and stepped away from electoral politics. His new memoir, Speaking My Mind, is out now. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Tubridy returns with a brand-new season of The Bookshelf. Each week, a brilliant guest shares their story through three meaningful books: the book from their childhood the book that changed their life and the book that brought them joy Season 4 begins Tuesday, 30th September, with new episodes every Tuesday. Brought to you by Ballymore. Follow the show: Instagram: @bookshelfpodcast TikTok: @bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: @instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan chats live with Andrea Mara, author of 'It Should Have Been You' - the unputdownable No.1 bestselling thriller. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. All episodes available to watch on YouTube: https://shorturl.at/oBFZy Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mary McAleese is a barrister, academic, author, and former politician who served as the president of Ireland from 1997 to 2011. Season finale. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amy Huberman is an acclaimed actress, bestselling author, and entrepreneur. She created and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Finding Joy’, and is the author of the beloved novel ‘Hello Heartbreak’ and the children’s bestseller ‘The Day I Got Trapped in My Brain’. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob Rinder is a barrister, broadcaster, and Sunday Times #1 bestselling author. His new novel ‘The Protest’, the third installment in his Adam Green legal thriller series, will be released on June 19th. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sumi Dunne is a general practitioner and clinical lecturer. Born in London, she graduated from the University of Southampton and later completed her training at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. From 2019 to 2024, she gained national recognition as the resident GP on the popular TV series Operation Transformation. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan chats live with Louise Hegarty, a major new voice in Irish fiction, about her debut novel 'Fair Play'. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. All episodes available to watch on YouTube: https://shorturl.at/oBFZy Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Gray is a singer-songwriter and musician. His album ‘White Ladder’ is the best-selling album in Ireland of all time. David will be performing at the INEC Arena in Killarney on August 28th, as part of his ‘Past & Present’ world tour. Brought to you by Eason – Ireland’s favourite bookseller. Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookshelfpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookshelfpodcast Follow Ryan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instatubridy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.