Hachette Ireland acquires Steve Garrigan memoir

Hachette Ireland has acquired a memoir by Steve Garrigan, lead singer of the Irish rock band Kodaline.

Editorial director Ciara Doorley acquired world rights for High Hopes from East Coast Management. The book will be published in October 2021 in trade paperback, audio and e-book.

The memoir has been described by the publisher as "deeply personal", examining Garrigan's experiences of growing up in Dublin and "the shyness that only dissolved when he was playing an instrument or in front of a microphone". The publisher added: "He writes about the joys of creating songs that have helped make Kodaline become one of Ireland's bestselling bands, the highs and lows of touring, and how music and the support of those around him helped him though the anxiety, depression and crippling panic attacks that threatened to derail his career."

Doorley said: "We knew that Steve had a story to tell, but we’ve been blown away by the honesty and candour in this memoir, which gives the reader remarkable insights into his life. High Hopes charts Steve’s life with the band recording music that has reached people around the world but also how, even while he was realising all of his lifelong dreams, he was wracked by anxiety and depression. This is a story about the power that can be found in accepting all parts of yourself."

Garrigan added: "I’m very excited and slightly nervous to be releasing this book. It’s something I never thought I’d have the courage to do but I’m glad I did. It touches on my experience growing up with anxiety issues, escaping into music, song writing and touring the world. I hope you guys enjoy my story."