Niall Williams shares his top six books that exemplify rich storytelling

In Ireland, renowned novelist Niall Williams has established his reputation through several successful works, including "Four Letters of Love," "History of the Rain," and his latest novel, "Time of the Child." The new book explores the profound impact of a Christmas season on a small Irish town. Williams's writing is characterized by its rich storytelling, a quality he seeks in other authors' works. He shares a list of six significant books that have heavily influenced him. This eclectic selection includes classic works by Charles Dickens, and contemporary novels like "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver, which showcases complex female perspectives in a compelling narrative set in the Belgian Congo. Williams highlights the importance of storytelling in literature and honors the diverse voices that contribute to the craft. His recommendations reflect both personal and universal themes, ultimately inviting readers to delve deeper into the art of narrative. Williams's advocacy for compelling storytelling and the relationships we build with literature is evident in his selections.