Heather O'Neill

Who is Heather O'Neill?

Heather O'Neill is a Canadian novelist, poet, short story writer, screenwriter and journalist. She was born in Montreal, but is of Southern American descent and spent part of her childhood in the American South. She currently lives in Montreal.

She published her debut novel, Lullabies for Little Criminals, in 2006. The novel was subsequently selected for the 2007 edition of Canada Reads, where it was championed by singer-songwriter John K. Samson. Lullabies won the competition.

Lullabies for Little Criminals was a publishing sensation in Canada and went on to become an international bestseller. The book sparked a bidding war for film rights. She was named by Chatelaine as one of the most influential women in Canada.

Her credits also include a screenplay, a book of poetry, and contributions to The New York Times Magazine, Public Radio International's This American Life, and the CBC's Wiretap.

Her 2008 short story "The End of Pinky" was adapted as a 2013 animated short of the same name, with O'Neill providing English narration. In December 2013, it was named to the Toronto International Film Festival's annual top ten list, in the short film category.