Chatting to Colin Walsh

Last week, I had the opportunity to speak to Colin Walsh, as he launched his debut novel Kala in Merseyside at the West Kirby Bookshop. It was my first time doing an event like this, and I was surprised by my lack of nerves and how much I enjoyed it.

Kala is a stunning debut that marries the headiness of teenage nostalgia, with the intrigue of a thriller. It has characters that get completely under your skin, and feel so well realised, and if you’re an Irish millennial, the references to outdoor drinking and teenage discos are enough to send you back in time.

I felt so lucky to have Colin as the first author I interviewed. He is a clever and thoughtful speaker, who was completely open to my interpretations of his work. He is completely unassuming and humble, and spent lots of time chatting to everyone who came, writing personalised dedications in everyone’s books.

In short, it was a joy, and I hope it’s not the last time I get to do something like this. Here’s to getting out of my comfort zone!