
Colum McCann Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Speaking Fee:
$10,000 to $20,000
Travels From:
NYC - New York City
Travels From:
NYC - New York City
Primary Topic Category:
Authors & Storytellers
Primary Topic Category:
Authors & Storytellers
Secondary Topic Category:
Inspiration / Motivation / Overcoming Obstacles
Secondary Topic Category:
Inspiration / Motivation / Overcoming Obstacles
Colum McCann Speaker Profile: At A Glance
Irish-born international bestseller Colum McCann is among the world’s foremost storytellers, moving seamlessly from the Troubles in Ireland to the Romani camps of Eastern Europe to the dizzying heights of the World Trade Center. Known as a writer of style and substance, hailed by critics and readers alike, he is known as a poetic realist and a literary risk-taker, a writer who is known to tackle the dark in order to get through to the light—any sort of light, however, compromised—on the far side. Winner of the 2020 National Jewish Book Award for Fiction, McCann speaks about the power of storytelling to build empathy and connection.
Colum McCann is an acclaimed Irish author known for his keen ability to craft narratives that resonate with readers across the globe. Born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1965, McCann grew up surrounded by a rich tapestry of storytelling traditions, which inevitably shaped his path as a writer. Although he initially pursued journalism, it was fiction that truly captured his imagination and heart.
McCann's literary journey began in earnest with his debut novel, "Songdogs," which published in 1995, displayed his unique narrative style and profound grasp of human emotions. Since then, he has authored several celebrated works, including "Let the Great World Spin," which won the National Book Award in 2009. Each of his books presents a deep exploration of humanity, often interweaving historical events with the lives of ordinary people. His writing, lauded for its lyrical prose and empathy, has earned him countless admirers and a spot on bestseller lists worldwide.
Beyond his novels, McCann's essays and short stories have been featured in renowned publications such as The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, and The Paris Review. His ability to address complex social issues with clarity and compassion makes him a sought-after voice on matters of cultural and social significance. McCann is also a passionate advocate for the storytelling process itself, co-founding the non-profit global story-exchange organization, Narrative 4, which seeks to build empathy through storytelling.
Colum McCann not only shares his insights on the written word but brings them to life in compelling keynote addresses. His speeches inspire audiences to look beyond their perspectives, encouraging dialogue and the sharing of stories as means to create understanding and community. As a speaker, he merges the art of storytelling with poignant reflections on our shared humanity, making him a vital and engaging presence on any platform.
McCann currently resides in New York City, where he continues to write and teach. He is a distinguished professor in the MFA program at Hunter College, fostering a new generation of writers. His personal journey, interwoven with tales of his travels and life experiences, continues to inspire and challenge audiences. Through both his written and spoken words, Colum McCann remains a transformative figure in contemporary literature and public discourse.