One Dublin, One Book 2026 Setting the Scene: Ireland in the 1950s - Fintan O’Toole in conversation with Catriona Crowe

dlr Libraries were delighted to partner again with Dublin UNESCO City of Literature for this One Dublin, One Book event in the Studio Theatre, dlr LexIcon. Listen back now to author and journalist Fintan O’Toole speaking to author and archivist Catriona Crowe as they discussed the social, historical and economic landscape of 1950s Ireland, exploring the broader context in which Banville’s chosen title Christine Falls unfolds. The novel vividly conjures the society, politics and atmosphere of 1950s Dublin, from the power of the Church and social conservatism, to the treatment of women and emigration to America.  One Dublin, One Book is an annual Dublin City Council initiative, led by Dublin City Libraries and Dublin UNESCO City of Literature, where everyone is encouraged to read a designated book connected with the capital city during the month of April every year. Note: Strong language - Use of expletive at 47:47 and 54:45