Lisa Harding is an Irish writer, actress, and playwright whose work spans on fictional novels, play, anthologies and journals. She is considered an important voice in contemporary Irish literature, with her works contributing to discussions around social issues. Her novels engage readers with compelling stories while prompting reflection on the lives of those on the margins of society.[1][2][3][4]
Lisa Harding | |
|---|---|
| Born | Dublin, Ireland |
| Occupation | Writer, actress, playwright |
| Alma mater | Trinity College Dublin |
| Period | Contemporary |
| Genre | Novel, Play |
| Subject | Family Love Motherhood |
| Years active | 2012–present |
| Notable works |
|
| Notable awards | Kate O'Brien Award Irish Book Awards |
Early life and education
editHarding was raised in Dublin, Ireland, where she initially pursued a career in acting before focusing on writing. She completed an MPhil in creative writing from Trinity College Dublin in 2014, marking the beginning of her transition from acting to writing.[5][6][7]
Career
editActing
editBefore embarking on a writing career, Harding was an accomplished actress, appearing in various theatrical productions, television shows, and films in Ireland and the UK.[8] Her acting background has influenced her writing, evident in her vivid characterizations and deep understanding of human emotions and motivations.[6]
Writing career
editHarding's literary debut came with the novel Harvesting in 2017, which received critical acclaim for its exploration of human trafficking and forced prostitution. The novel follows the lives of two young girls, one Irish and the other Moldovan, offering an emotional look at their exploitation. "Harvesting" won the 2018 Kate O'Brien Award and was shortlisted for an Irish Book Award and the Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year.[7][9][10]
Her second novel, Bright Burning Things, published in 2021, addresses themes of addiction, motherhood, and redemption. The story is told through Sonya, a struggling actress battling alcoholism and the challenges of raising her son. Critics praised the book for its raw portrayal of addiction and its impact on family dynamics.[1][2][11][12]
Harding's work is characterized by its emotional depth, complex characters, and exploration of difficult subjects such as addiction, exploitation, and redemption. Her background in acting contributes to her vivid portrayals and intense narrative voice.[8]
Awards and recognition
edit| Year | Publication | Award | Result | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Harvesting | Irish Book Awards | Shortlisted | [13] |
| Kate O'Brien Award | Won | [9] | ||
| Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year | Shortlisted | [10] |
Biblio
edit- Harvesting (2017)
- Bright Burning Things (2021)
References
edit- ^ a b MacAllen, Ian (2021-12-08). "Addiction, Recovery and Motherhood in Lisa Harding's "Bright Burning Things"". Chicago Review of Books. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ a b "Bright Burning Things by Lisa Harding: Peering into the core of maternal love". The Irish Times. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ "Harvesting by Lisa Harding is November's Book Club choice". The Irish Times. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ "Lisa Harding on Harvesting, one year on". The Irish Times. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ "Lisa Harding". NEW ISLAND BOOKS. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ a b Grenham, Sophie (2018-01-05). "Writer's Block with Lisa Harding". The Gloss Magazine. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ a b "Writer in Residence event | Lisa Harding with Arts Council Writer-in-Residence Michèle Forbes | Maynooth University". Maynooth University. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ a b Leonard, Sue (2021-04-17). "Book interview: ex-actress Lisa Harding makes her own drama in new novel". Irish Examiner. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ a b "Limerick Literary Festival".
- ^ a b admin (2022-04-12). "Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year Award shortlist - Books Ireland". Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ Cook, Jude (2021-03-19). "Bright Burning Things by Lisa Harding review – gripping quest for self-knowledge". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ Patrick, Bethanne (2021-12-21). "Review | In 'Bright Burning Things,' an alcoholic mother must choose between drinking and her son". Washington Post. ISSN 0190-8286. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
- ^ "Harvesting P/B - Dubray Books". dubraybooks.ie. 2024-03-19. Retrieved 2024-03-19.