The World Behind The Door

About the Book

A memoir of memory, survival, and renewal

My memoir The World Behind The Door was released worldwide on January 11, 2026

When memory shatters, how do you put the pieces back together? For most of his life, Derry O’Leary lived without knowing the truth. Misdiagnosed as a child, he slipped into a coma, survived a brain tumour, and awoke to a life that felt fragmented—like broken glass.

But even shattered glass can catch the light. The World Behind the Door is a raw and unflinching memoir of resilience, silence, and survival—but also of healing, renewal, and hope. Launching January 2026, it is a testament to courage and the human spirit.

About the Author

Derry O’Leary

Born in Cork, Ireland, Derry O’Leary grew up in a world shaped by silence and survival. An undiagnosed brain tumour led to years of debilitating seizures, followed by surgery that resulted in a coma and profound memory loss.

Over twelve years, Derry painstakingly rebuilt his life — relearning language, relationships, and identity. Today he lives in Granada, Spain, where he writes about resilience, healing, and what it means to begin again.

The World Behind the Door is his first book, a memoir that speaks to anyone who has ever felt broken, lost, or in search of themselves.

Latest Update

The Final Draft of the Cover Has Arrived

The World Behind The Door - Full Paperback Cover

View full-size cover

Here it is — the full paperback design, complete with the back-cover blurb and spine. Launching January 2026, this is the version that will go to print.

Watch the Trailer

The World Behind The Door — Official Book Trailer

A visual glimpse into the memoir’s heart — memory, loss, and renewal.
Launching worldwide January 2026.

Why This Story Matters

Finding Light in the Fragments

This is not only a story of what was lost, but of what was found: strength, belonging, and the courage to begin again.

If you’ve ever faced hardship, grief, or a search for identity, this memoir is a reminder that even the darkest fragments can reflect the light.

Be the First to Read

Launching 11th January 2026

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In the News

Latest Articles

Cork man opens up about extraordinary survival story

Yesterday, CorkBeo published an article about my memoir, The World Behind The Door. It shares my journey of resilience, survival, and finding hope in the aftermath of trauma.

Read the Full Article

Derry O’Leary: “Like being dropped into someone else’s life”

Featured in Cork Independent, this first-page article discusses my experiences and insights while writing The World Behind The Door.

Read the Full Article

Radio Interview: Living with an undiagnosed Brain Tumour on 96FM

Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with PJ on 96FM about living with seizures and the journey that inspired my upcoming book. We also touched on the book itself, and PJ was kind enough to give it a mention. You can listen to the full interview below.

Listen To My Interview

Listen to my interview on C103FM with Patricia Messinger

I was recently on Cork Today—C103 discussing my journey with an undiagnosed brain tumour, and why I wrote my memoir. My segment starts at 47:04.

Listen on C103FM