After 25 years at RTÉ, the broadcaster now presents Radio 1’s culture show. He feels as if he’s found the thing he’s good at. He’s only sorry about the tragic circumstances

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O'Shea has been presenting the programme on an interim basis since the death of long‑time Arena presenter Seán Rocks in July of last year.

Mr Hoo and other stories - Couture - Hello Charlie

Writer and columnist Rónán Hession joins the show to be quizzed about best foreign fiction hitting the shelves, as well as the art of literary translation.

January has some gems straight out of the traps – I’m already reading Vigil by George Saunders as I’ll be talking to him on RTÉ Radio 1’s Arena soon.

I’m attempting to focus on books that you might not find in other end-of-year lists you’ve seen in the run up to Christmas – the ones that have possibly not gotten the spotlight and love they deserve.

The Rick O'Shea Book Club Xmas Appeal 2025 for DSPCA, My Lovely Horse Rescue and Children's Books Ireland, created by Rick O'Shea | iDonate.ie

The Rick O'Shea Book Club Xmas Appeal 2025 for DSPCA, My Lovely Horse Rescue and Children's Books Ireland, created by Rick O'Shea | iDonate.ie