‘Writing, literature, and the power of words are for everyone, regardless of background or experience.’ That is the message behind the launch of a debut anthology from a Belfast creative writing group.

The Duncairn Writers’ Hub has announced the release of its debut publication, The People’s Pages, following an official launch on Thursday 20 August at The Duncairn — a venue that places art at the heart of North Belfast.

Made possible through funding from Belfast City Council’s Bank of Ideas Programme, and with support from The Duncairn Arts Centre, the anthology brings together the voices, stories, and poetry of eight Belfast-based writers.

The anthology includes Chips and Plenty of Red Sauce, which tells the story of a twelve-year-old boy who witnesses a man dying after being shot on the streets of Ardoyne; Shade of Your Soul, a poem exploring how working-class people can be denied access to art, culture, and self-expression; and The Winds of Change,a poem inspired by life’s constant changes and the process of rebirth. The cover art, which takes inspiration from stained glass windows that were once called Bibles for the poor visually narrates the themes of the book, was designed by Writers’ Hub member and anthology contributor Stephen Ferrin.

Speaking about the achievement, Aoibh Clarke Née Johnson, playwright, theatre maker, creative facilitator, and founder of the Duncairn Writers’ Hub,said:

“When I first met these writers at one of my creativewriting classes in 2023, I knew we had something special. They were passionate, talented, and committed to continuing their writing journey. What began as meeting twice a month to write, read aloud, and support one another has blossomed into a collective whose members have hosted their own events, been published, won competitions, and facilitated community outreach workshops. Seeing their work brought together in print is testimony to the fact that that writing, literature, and the power of words are for everyone, regardless of background or experience.”

To connect with the Writers’ Hub, find out how to purchase a book, or request permission to use their work, please email aoibhjohnson@yahoo.co.uk. You can also learn more by following the group on Instagram at @belfastwritershub.