Aoife Burke, pronounced ‘eefa’, born on May 9, 1982, in Galway, Ireland, stands out as a formidable force in the world of journalism and literature. Known for her contributions to science fiction and children’s literature, Burke’s career is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the craft of writing.
From a young age, Burke’s talents in the arts were evident. As a child, she attended the Garvey School of Speech and Drama, studying up to Grade 8. At just seven years old, she won her first competition, a Community Games art competition.
In her teenage years, Burke continued to demonstrate her literary promise. At fifteen, she won a poetry competition titled “Care Life,” which was published in the local paper and archived in the digital archives for the West of Ireland. This recognition not only validated her budding literary talent but also marked the beginning of her journey in journalism.
After completing her secondary education, Burke pursued higher studies at the Athlone Institute of Technology. Her academic journey was unconventional; she took a ten-year hiatus before returning to complete her exams, ultimately graduating in 2014 with a Higher Certificate in Applied Social Studies in Social Care. This period of perseverance and dedication highlighted her resilience and commitment to her goals.
Burke’s literary career took a significant leap in October 2020 with the publication of her first science fiction book, Luminess: The Island of the Moon, on Amazon. The novel was met with positive reviews, establishing her as a promising new voice in the genre. Her talents were further recognized when Luminess: The Island of the Moon won the “Distinguished Favorite for Science Fiction” at the Independent Press Awards in New York in March 2022. This accolade underscored her ability to craft compelling and imaginative narratives.
Not limiting herself to science fiction, Burke also ventured into children’s literature. She published two children’s picture books: Cyril the Squirrel and Thumble Thistle the Bee. These works showcased her versatility and ability to engage younger audiences with delightful and educational stories. In 2023, she expanded her literary reach by releasing an audiobook rendition of Daydreams of a Writer, available on platforms such as Spotify, Apple, and Audible.
Burke’s academic achievements further solidified her literary credentials. In August 2023, she graduated with a degree in English and Journalism.
Her contributions to journalism have also been noteworthy. In 2020, Burke was the runner-up in Ireland in the EU Sakharov Student Journalist Competition, highlighting her journalistic prowess and dedication to addressing critical issues through her writing. During her time at university, Burke was actively involved in a radio show called “Trivia Matters,” which was recognized in the student newspaper. Her efforts earned her a silver award from CRAOL – The Community Radio Forum of Ireland, specifically for her contributions to the “Trivia Matters” radio show.
Burke’s involvement in national competitions further demonstrated her literary talent. In 2020, she participated in a national creative writing competition, securing a spot in the top ten among 30 entrants. This achievement, alongside her other accolades, reinforced her reputation as a talented and dedicated writer.
Aoife Burke’s bibliography includes notable works such as Cyril the Squirrel and the Great Oak Tree (2023), The Adventures of Thumble Thistle the Bee (2022), Daydreams of a Writer (2020), and Luminess: The Island of the Moon (2020). Each of these works highlights her ability to create engaging and imaginative narratives that captivate readers of all ages.
In summary, Aoife Burke’s career is a testament to her courage, resilience, and dedication to the craft of writing. From her early achievements in art and poetry to her success in journalism and literature, Burke has consistently demonstrated her ability to overcome challenges and create meaningful, impactful work.
