Patrick McCabe

The Butcher Boyis a black comedy narrated by a disturbed young slaughterhouse worker; The Dead School is an account of the misfortunes that befall two Dublin teachers; and Breakfast on Pluto is the disturbing tale of a transvestite prostitute who becomes involved with Republican terrorists. Of these, The Butcher Boy and Breakfast on Pluto were both shortlisted for the Booker Prize. His latest novel, Winterwood, which he describes as "a ghost story", was published in late 2006.

Critics have noted the way in which his protagonists all have certain things in common. They are all extraordinary people in very ordinary places - socially unacceptable, or at the very least marginalised. They are psychopaths and murderers and kidnappers and the like. But they are also engaging, often sympathetic (in the rather odd, sinister way that a psychopathic murderous kidnapper can be sympathetic) and very funny. For all their actions might shock and repel us, they're surprisingly good company.

He has also written numerous other works, including a children's book, The Adventures of Shay Mouse and a play, Frank Pig Says Hello, based on his novel The Butcher Boy.Here, he discusses his approach to writing ("You can only write when you feel compelled to do so"), the music that inspires him, the bleakness of his books, the state of Ireland and his 'comic book imagination'.

Winterwood is priced £12.99, and is available from all good bookshops now.