THE Fish Anthology returns, and a fine catch for connoisseurs of the short story, poetry and prose it is.

This collection is composed of the work of winners and runnersup from six prize-winning categories in the Fish Short Story Prize which the publisher runs every year.

The work has been chosen by the panel of 11 judges and the wealth of talent on display is as broad in each category as is possible to find, making this an exciting read throughout.

The collection, published with Arts Council support, is edited by Jock Howson whose passion for approachable design is evident . . . with a foreword from Michael Collins, main judge of the Fish Short Story Prize.

The winner of the Fish Short Story Prize is 'A Paper Heart Is Beating, A Paper Boat Sets Sail' by Kathleen Murray. Originally from Carlow, Murray has a gifted and inventive approach . . . her almost mathematical insight into origami and her subtext of literary/poetic/community function are sublime . . . and she tells a tale that might be located anywhere but which is totally informed of an Irish sensibility.

The winner of Short Histories II is 'Dancing on Canvey' by British author Lane Ashfeldt.

She's an author of remarkable power to judge by her account of events in 1953 when the sea flooded Canvey Island.

Her story is told from the perspective of a superbly portrayed young girl seeking to attend a dance on the island on the night of the tragedy.

Ashfeldt's work is as poignant as it is compelling and rooted in thorough research.

Orlaith O'Sullivan from Dublin produces 'Gilt' a bracing "Grand Guignol" of manuscript espionage and murderous intent.

Elsewhere, a sublime poem written by gifted Oregonian warrior against multiple sclerosis, Susan Keith, won the Second Fish International Poetry Prize. I quote entirely:

A Festive Holiday Photo mother depends upon a festive holiday photo so I pose stiffly smiling beside the blank space where my sister should be Fish provides delectable food for thought.