Oisín McGann

Born in Dublin in 1973, Oisin spent his childhood there and in Drogheda, County Louth. Unable to conceive of a way to make a living from writing fiction, he decided to fund his dreams of being an author by working as an illustrator (yes, he was that naive). He signed up for a design and print foundation course and then studied animation at Dun Laoghaire School of Art and Design. Setting up as a freelance illustrator/artist, he then took up a position at Fred Wolf Films, working on the animated series of Zorro. After completing his contract, he decided to expand his horizons and left for London to seek his fortune. He found gainful employment as a security guard, watching over trains and then hospitals. Following three and a half years of working in advertising he became increasingly concerned for his immortal soul. He returned to Ireland much as he had left - with no job, no home and some meagre savings. Ever the optimist, he now works once more as a freelance illustrator and mercenary artist by day and escapist writer by night. He hopes one day to have a decent job, with a pension, a health plan and paid annual holidays.