Kekelwa Nyaywa was born in Zambia and is author of several published novels and short stories. But her love of writing spans different genres that include children’s books and poetry. A poem by Kekelwa Nyaywa, “The RatRace” was among selected poems in the North American Open Poetry Contest and was published in the book: A view from the Edge (1992, p.41) by The National Library of Poetry. Her first novel Hearthstones (1995) was nominated for the 1997 Dublin International (IMPAC) Literary Award. Her subsequent novels include: Beacon ofLight (2013); Under the Fig Tree (2016) – a children’s book; and The Reunion (2020).
Kekelwa Nyaywa was born in Zambia and is author of several published novels and short stories. But her love of writing spans different genres that include children’s books and poetry. A poem by Kekelwa Nyaywa, “The RatRace” was among selected poems in the North American Open Poetry Contest and was published in the book: A view from the Edge (1992, p.41) by The National Library of Poetry. Her first novel Hearthstones (1995) was nominated for the 1997 Dublin International (IMPAC) Literary Award. Her subsequent novels include: Beacon ofLight (2013); Under the Fig Tree (2016) – a children’s book; and The Reunion (2020).
Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
VideoMay 12 2026
Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A
Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
VideoMay 8 2026
Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A
Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.