Roddy Doyle was born in Dublin in 1958. His novels are The Commitments, The Snapper, The Van, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize; Paddy Clarke, Ha Ha Ha, which won the 1993 Booker Prize; The Woman Who Walked Into Doors; A Star Called Henry and his latest novel Paula Spencer. His drama includes War, and Brownbread, as well as The Family. Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha has the distinction of being the bestselling winner in the history of the prize. He has contributed to New Island’s successful and groundbreaking Open Door Series on two occasions, Not Just for Christmas (2001) and Mad Weekend (2006). He lives in Dublin.