Brian Keaney was born and bought up in London. His parents were Irish immigrants who returned to Ireland when Brian was in his early twenties. As a result of this, his first book, Don't Hang About, is a reflection of the Irish/British experience and is recognised widely by the Irish community in Britain. It is a theme that recurs in his later novel for children, Family Secrets.

Brian attended Liverpool University and obtained a degree in English and spent a number of years working as a teacher and then writer in schools but now works full-time as a freelance writer.

Family Secrets was Brian's first book for Orchard Books. A powerful novel set in Ireland about three generations of strongly independent female characters. Family Secrets is published as part of Orchard's Black Apple fiction list for children aged 12 years and upwards. Brian's second book The Private Life of Georgia Brown was also published by Orchard Books, has been called an "energetic and well written drama… Keaney has a perfect grasp on teenagers and handles their dialogue convincingly." The School Librarian. Both of these titles are being reissued in 2000 with new jackets.

Brian's previous books include Don't Hang About (1985), Some People Never Learn (1987), No Need for Heroes (1989), If This is the Real World (1991) and Boys Don't Write Love Stories (1992).

Bitter Fruit (published in 1999) is a powerful story about the death of a parent from the viewpoint of a teenager. Sensitively written, Brian explores and tackles a number of issues including bereavement, family relationships, friendship and religion creating a memorable and compelling story, accessible to young teenager. Balloon House (published in 2000) is another powerful teenage novel about trust, loyalty and family relationships. Brian is married with two grown up daughters, both of whom are at University. He lives and works in London.

To book Brian for a performance in your school...
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