Celebrate the launch of Steve O’Toole’s debut observational and reflective poetry anthology Don’t Judge My Book by My Cover on Thursday, 26 November 2026 at 7pm. The James Joyce Centre and The Write Stuff are teaming up for an unforgettable night of readings and music. Steve is a street-stalking creative, poet, storyteller, and artist. Not one to sit on the fence, Steve firmly wears both his heart and mind on his sleeve, delivering forceful versed commentary by the page-full. Whether it is parenthood, friendship, mortality, society or human rights, Steve puts the full force of his soul into every subject he refuses to stay quiet about, infusing his work with a palpable and all-too-relatable anger, fuelled by love and empathy. Steve will be reading from and signing copies of his book on the night. We will also be joined by: Book editor and MC for the evening, Louise O’Hanlon Book forward and Dublin singer/songwriter, Tony St Ledger Book illustrator, TheRefusalArt North Dublin alt rock band, Runway Lights REVIEWS “Even if I didn’t know Steve and I walked into a room and he was reading his poetry, I’d be listening, I’d be hearing and I’d be moved. I am so delighted and encouraged to know that Steve is still out there fighting the good fights. I love all his creativity and that he’s only getting started.” These are the words Pat said to Steve on a December evening in Clontarf, 2023. Afterwards, he quipped “I might not be here, by the time you get around to doing what I’ve been telling you to do for years.” PAT INGOLDSBY “A protege of Pat Ingoldsby, Steve O’Toole is adding his voice to the rich tapestry of Dublin’s lyrical narrative. This Zozimus for the Tik-Tok generation is driven by a similar freewheeling sense of injustice, mischief and compassion as fellow Dublin voices

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