Writer in line for a ‘Grand’ prize

A finalist’s spot in the country’s most prestigious literary awards, a residence at a renowned creative institution, and an upcoming podcast series – it’s fair to say life is “grand” for Noelle McCarthy.

The Featherston local is one of just 20 writers shortlisted for the 2023 Ockhams New Zealand Book Awards – with her memoir Grand: Becoming My Mother’s Daughter in contention for the top prize in the General NonFiction category.

Sixteen works across four categories have been named as finalists, whittled down from the original 44 on the long list, released last month.

McCarthy’s Grand is the only memoir to have made the shortlist – up against an exploration of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its English text, a collection of stories from Te Tai Tokerau iwi, and a biography of notorious Whanganui Mayor Charles Mackay. Grand [Penguin, 2022], the first full-length book for journalist and podcaster McCarthy, explores her upbringing in 1990s Ireland, successful broadcasting career, and overcoming generational trauma.

At the heart of the memoir is her tumultuous relationship with her late mother Carol, whose own religious upbringing had a lasting impact on her family.

McCarthy, also in the running for a special