Eddi Reader, singer

Hunger by Knut Hamsun

"The book I want to mention is the first one that I felt actually changed me through reading. Originally published in 1890, I read this about 30 years ago, when I was in that place between having left school, having just left my family home for the 'big city' of Glasgow and just discovering how to use my abilities as a singer to support myself.

"Hunger was written after Hamsun's return from a tour of America and is loosely based on the author's own impoverished life before his breakthrough in 1890.

I could certainly relate wholeheartedly to this man's experience. I was caught in a place, not wanting to conform to a 'normal job' yet wanting to get off the dole and support myself doing what I enjoyed. I remember, vividly, a moment while reading this book in Glasgow Central Station tea rooms. I only had enough money for a cup of tea and one slice of bread and butter. That slice of bread and butter became the most delicious meal I had ever tasted.

"I started busking soon after that and my path began. Thinking about that particular time when I first read this book has made me want to read it again... and have a cup of tea and a strawberry tart – I can afford them now."

Eddi Reader will be in concert at the Royal Theatre & Events Centre, Castlebar on 3 August during the World Fleadh

www.theworldfleadh.com