One is that this thrilling programme has just been announced by the Dublin Theatre Festival, and there’s plenty to get excited about. Kudos to Loughlin Deegan for always pulling off something to get revved up about – can’t wait for the Chekhov, and suspect that the Blue Dragon might be one of the unmissables this year. More on all things thespian anon, but meanwhile, am also fittingly excited about this list, the Man Booker Dozen, as I sit here with Ed O’Loughlin’s book by my bedside under a tower of to-be-reads. So far, I can check Brooklyn, but the rest remain to be perused quick smart before the shortlist arrives. Bets on who’ll make it to the final five? The books (and comments) are open . . .