Catherine Simpson

Catherine Simpson is a memoirist, novelist, poet, and short-story writer. Her novel Truestory (2024) won a Scottish Book Trust New Writers Award.

Catherine Simpson was born and raised on a Lancashire dairy farm. Simpson has published two memoirs. When I Had a Little Sister delves into the tragic death by suicide of her sister, Tricia, offering a poignant exploration of grief and family dynamics.

Her second memoir, One Body, discusses the experiences of growing up and growing older in a woman's body. Scottish National Book Awards shortlisted this book for Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2022. It was also selected for World Book Night 2023.

In addition to writing, Simpson is a broadcaster for BBC Radio 4. The reviewer contributes to various anthologies and magazines as a regular contributor to BBC Radio Scotland's Tuesday Review.

Her latest novel, Truestory (2024), explores the life of a mother confined to her home by her autistic son, Sam, who is tethered to his computer. The novel, praised for its black comedy and heartfelt moments, examines themes of sacrifice, entrapment, and unexpected possibilities. The novel won a Scottish Book Trust New Writers Award and received critical acclaim for its sharp observations and moving narrative.

Additionally, Simpson runs memoir-writing courses at Garsdale Retreat, sharing her expertise and encouraging others to explore their stories.

Catherine Simpson resides in Edinburg.

Photo credit: www.catherine-simpson.co.uk