About this site

This unique, searchable database contains up-to-date profiles of some of the UK, Commonwealth and Republic of Ireland's most important living writers, as well as writers from these regions whom we have worked with. Included in the profiles are biographies, bibliographies, critical reviews, prize information and photographs. 

Profiles are searchable by author, genre, nationality, publisher and book title. The views expressed are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of the British Council.

We have a long list of authors who are being added to the site regularly. We add up to six new profiles each month, and ensure that every entry is checked and approved directly by the author concerned. Authors can also supply an Author Statement for their own profile. Critical Perspectives for each author are gradually being added.

The Contemporary Writers website only includes authors we work with and major prizewinners from the UK, Republic of Ireland and the Commonwealth.  An editorial panel consisting of British Council senior literature consultant Tanya Andrews, along with professor of literature at University College London, respected literary journalist and author John Mullan, will meet twice a year to assess applications according to the above stated criteria. This includes considering those who have requested to be featured on the site. Literary critics are also considered.

For updates about new authors added to the site, please sign up for our regular newsletter.

We hope that you find this site easy to use. The site editor is Cathy Grindrod. If you would like to update details about an author or have any comments about the site then please contact British Council Arts Group.

More Information: Interview about Contemporary Writers with the previous site manager.