The shortlist for the 20th annual An Post Irish Book Awards has been unveiled, featuring a diverse mix of new and established writers across 19 categories.

The coveted Novel of the Year prize features veterans John Banville and Hugo Hamilton; Joseph O’Connor for the second in his series of novels set in occupied Rome during the second World War; Elaine Feeney for her third work of fiction; and four debut novelists: John Patrick McHugh, Roisín O’Donnell, Wendy Erskine and Garrett Carr.

Fintan Drury, Jacqueline Connolly with Kathryn Rogers, Matt Cooper, Adam Maguire, John Gibbons and Gavan Reilly compete for Nonfiction Book of the Year, with subjects as varied as Israel’s onslaught on Gaza; the murder by Alan Hawe of his wife Clodagh and their three sons; a history of Dunnes Stores; the climate crisis; the children of the bailout; and behind the scenes at Leinster House.

Larry Mac Hale, chairperson of the awards, said: “The shortlist for this year’s An Post Irish Book Awards once again highlights the extraordinary breadth and depth of talent among Irish writers. It’s inspiring to see such creativity and passion reflected across every category, with deserving recognition for authors, publishers, illustrators and booksellers alike. The awards remain the cornerstone of Ireland’s literary calendar, and we look forward to celebrating this year’s winners.”

The public are now being invited to cast their votes on the awards website. Voters may cast their votes from 8pm on Wednesday evening until voting closes at 6pm on Sunday, November 16t