Fallen Star Stories

Julia Donaldson Writes poem for Library Day

2012-02-04T05:07:00.000-08:00

Today is National Library Day in the UK, where the people have banded in support of public libraries. Children's Laureate and author, Julia Donaldson, has put pen to paper (of course!) and released a poem in praise of libraries and to make it very clear that the fate of the public libraries rests in people's need for them and the expression of that need... in a very light-hearted and fun way. (I'd love to see this become a picture book!)And here it is:
Library Poem by Julia Donaldson
Everyone is welcome to walk through the door.
It really doesn't matter if you're rich or poor.
There are books in boxes and books on shelves.
They're free for you to borrow, so help yourselves.
Come and meet your heroes, old and new,
From William the Conqueror to Winnie the Pooh.
You can look into the Mirror or read The Times,
Or bring along a toddler to chant some rhymes.
The librarian's a friend who loves to lend,
So see if there's a book that she can recommend.
Read that book, and if you're bitten
You can borrow all the other ones the author's written.
Are you into battles or biography?
Are you keen on gerbils or geography?
Gardening or ghosts? Sharks or science fiction?
There's something here for everyone, whatever your addiction.
There are students revising, deep in concentration,
And school kids doing projects, finding inspiration.
Over in the corner there's a table with seating,
So come along and join in the Book Club meeting.
Yes, come to the library! Browse and borrow,
And help make sure it'll still be here tomorrow.

In a number of counties in the UK, there have been successful campaigns against library closures... but elsewhere, there have been many losses. This includes a court attempt to save six libraries in Brent, north-west London.
What would we do without our libraries??????
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/9059937/Julia-Donaldson-poem-against-library-closures.html

'A Wrinkle In Time' Turns 50!

2012-02-02T05:41:00.000-08:00

This year, the book, A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L'Engle is celebrating it's 50th year of publication. (I'm sure I mentioned this as upcoming sometime last year... and thanks to David Maybury for the blog reminder). A truly incredible journey of a book... if you haven't ever read it, you really should. Give it to your children, share it in the classroom... please, please pick up this book ASAP. If you have read it, read it again. It will amaze and enchant you all over again.

Also, one of the best books of last year is Rebecca Stead's When You Reach Me, which was written (in part) as a tribute to Madeleine L'Engle's outstanding story.
Happy 50th Birthday, A Wrinkle In Time. You gave me more years of joy than I could have imagined. (But that's what great books do!)

p.s. I will also take the opportunity to remind you that another great childrens' contemporary classic The Phantom Tollbooth turned 50 last year! What a great time it was for children's literature..... (and other nostalgic thoughts....)

The 20 Most Beautiful Bookshops in the World

2012-02-02T02:54:00.000-08:00

On this chilly February morning (February 2nd...Happy Groundhog Day, by the way), here's a link for 'The Most Beautiful Bookshops in the World'. Pointed out by our good friends at Children's Books Ireland, they really are spectacular. If you're feeling particularly cold and dismal, check out the bookshop in Ojai, California (above and link via Book Chatter blog to more of Bart's Books 2nd below). It'll warm you right up!
http://flavorwire.com/254434/the-20-most-beautiful-bookstores-in-the-world#20
http://bookchatter.net/2009/05/10/the-sunday-salon-barts-books/

Five Children, Jacqueline Wilson and It?

2012-01-31T03:14:00.000-08:00

As part od Puffin's Classic's 30th anniversary, Jacqueline Wilson will be publishing an updated version of E Nesbit's Five Children and It. To be published in August, Wilson's story will centre around four contemporary children who travel back in time to meet Nesbit's original group. They discover the Psammead in a big sand pit in Oxshott Woods, Surrey and have their fondest wishes granted.
Wilson has been a fan of Nesbit's writing since she was young;
"I loved the way she wrote very approachably. This is a kind of tribute to her because I so admire."
As well as Four Children and It, we can look forward to The Further Tales of Peter Rabbit by Emma Thompson, and more!
Thank you to The Bookseller for this information.
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/five-become-four-wilsons-nesbit-update.html

New Releases From Little Island

2012-01-31T02:55:00.000-08:00

Little Island has just released some fantastic new books! Two of the books I have been most looking forward to are:

The World's Worst Mothers by Sabine Ludwig
Upon hearing about a contest to find 'the world's worst mothers', Ludwic, Sophie and Emily are very quick to volunteer their mothers for the competition. But when their mothers disappear and are replaced by perfect 'Aunt Annas', they soon discover that something sinister is afoot! "A fishy tale of betrayal,intrigue and adventure on the high seas - and the dog gets shot!'
Large Mammals, Stick Insects and Other Social Misfits by Felicity McCall
Aimee McCourt's cross-border exchange partner, Caoimhe is coming to visit, along with her gorgeous brother Darren. As Aimee tries to get her best-friends' lives back in order - as well as her own- she finds that as long as she has her stack of lists, her cat, Rainbow, a hot chocolate and Facebook, nothing is impossible! Honest, fast-paced and just plain fun this is a delightful read without being simplistic or boring.

War Horse by Michael Morpurgo

2012-01-27T11:55:00.000-08:00

This interesting bit of news came in today and I thought I'd share it with you. As you probably know, Michael Morpurgo's beautiful book War Horse has now been made into a feature film and is out in the cinema now... and the play is having a brilliant run in the West End, as well.
(Now for the interesting bit...) In the past two weeks since the films opening, War Horse (the book has sold more copies in the UK than it has since it was first published 25 years ago! Pulisher, Egmont Press, says that in the last fortnight, War Horse has sold 30,000 copies per week in the UK; whereas it has sold 50,000 copies total worldwide between 1982 and 2007 (when the stage play opened) creating an average sales rate of 2000 per year in that time period. Staggering!
War Horse is the story of Joey, a farm horse, told from his perspective. Joey gets separated from his owner and ends up in the trenches during World War I. War Horse is a true classic and if you haven't read it yet, please take the time to do so now. (The film is wonderful as well, but differs from the book in it's telling of the story.)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16750325

World Book Day Extravaganza 2012!!!!

2012-01-24T14:28:00.000-08:00

I'm really excited about this year's World Book Day events at Dubray Books, Galway! I've got an all-star cast lined up and it gets better day by day. So far, we'll be hosting reading events for the local schools by such wonderful authors/story-tellers as.....

Patricia Forde, Rab Swannock Fulton, Kevin Whelan, Dolores Keaveney.....

Maeve Friel and Nicola Pierce!!!! There are a few more requests to authors outstanding... and, of course there is the regular cast and crew of Dubray Books, Galway (if there's any room left for us!)

The events will take place this year from Monday, 27th February through Friday, March 2nd. I'll be contacting the schools for confirmation of their attendance through the next 10 days.

THIS IS GOING TO BE GREAT!!!!! Stay tuned for more exciting news about World Book Day!

Storytelling Superstar Competition

2012-01-23T07:47:00.000-08:00

Do you know someone who is brilliant at bringing stories to life? It could be anyone...a parent, teacher, librarian... anyone at all! This is someone who brings such life and joy and entertainment to the story that you feel like you are right in the story and totally involved. If you know someone like this... then here is the competition to enter!!
Visit the WorldBookDay2012 Channel on YouTube for directions on how to enter, but basically, it involves making a brief (1-2 minute) video of your favourite storyteller doing their thing and entering it! The winner will be crowned World Book Day's Storytelling Superstar 2012 in March. So get busy! The competition closes on 13th of February.
Here's Cressida Cowell to tell you all about it!

http://www.youtube.com/worldbookday2012

The Joy of Books

2012-01-16T15:27:00.001-08:00

I just have to share this link with you. Find out what really happens in bookshops overnight!

Arthur Quinn and the UNESCO City of Literature Children's Festival

2012-01-16T15:23:00.000-08:00

Check out the updated 'Arthur Quinn....' website and find out more about the UNESCO City of Literature Children's Festival.
And if you haven't read Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent yet, what's stopping you? The second book in the Father of Lies Chronicles will be out this summer!
http://arthurquinn.ie/home.html

Stop What You're Doing....!

2012-01-15T06:46:00.001-08:00

The title of this small book is Stop What You're Doing and Read This!... and so I did. (In truth, I'd heard about this book late last year and have been waiting for it to come out.) In times when we are most concerned with the elements of our busy lives... work, sleep, finance, the internet... I think this could be one of the most important books that's been published in quite a while. Here, we are greeted by a series of essays from some of the most prominent authors publishing today and they are all about the value of reading.
"People have always needed stories. We need them to make sense of our lives, test our depths, understand our joys, and discover what humans are capable of", it says on the back of the book. And that's exactly what you find within it's covers. Zadie Smith talks to us about her 'Library Life', Tim Parks speaks on 'Mindful Reading', Nicholas Carr exposes the 'Dreams of Readers', Michael Rosen uncovers some 'Memories and Expectations' and Jane Davis encourages the 'Reading Revolution.' Oh, there is so much more in these essays that more than proves the point... books are important; in fact, I would say they are urgent. As I read this book, I began to reflect on my own history with reading and where this fanatical passion for books came from in my life. And why I believe everyone, absolutely everyone, desperately needs books (and, I do mean actual books) in their life, in their home and in their memories.
My only worry is this... that this book won't reach the hands of those who truly need it.

Roald Dahl Stamps-UK Royal Mail Honours Dahl

2012-01-10T03:37:00.000-08:00

Out today - the Royal Mail has issued a series of postage stamps to celebrate the work of best loved children's author Roald Dahl. Featuring the illustrations of Quentin Blake, the stamps have images from all the favourites - Matilda, The Witches, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Twits, and more. As this year marks the 30th year of (probably his most famous of all) The BFG being in print, there is a special sheet depicting four stamps with illustrations from the BFG.. as well as the image showing when the BFG met the Queen.

"Dahl's daughter, Ophelia Dahl, said her father would have been "thrilled" about the stamps. "My dad wrote thousands of letters home throughout his life and never dreamed that one day one of his own characters would grace a stamp," she said. "This is an excellent way for us to kick off a year of celebrations to mark 30 years in print for The BFG and it's great that the stamps include a collector's set, devoted to The BFG and other characters from this book."

(Photographs from The Guardian Children's Blog Gallery)

http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2012/jan/09/roald-dahl-stamps-classic-childrens-author

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/gallery/2012/jan/09/roald-dahl-stamps-in-pictures?intcmp=239#/?picture=384169374&index=0

New Year... new reviews on The Bookbag!

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

Just a quick shout to alert you to the two new reviews I have had accepted by The Bookbag....
The first is truly a must read book for everyone. 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio isn't out for another month or so, but do keep your eyes open for this one!
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php?title=Wonder_by_R_J_Palacio

And the second is a marvellous read for confident young readers by Wendy Meddour entitled 'A Hen in the Wardrobe'. Definitely one you'll want to get your hands on!
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php?title=A_Hen_in_the_Wardrobe_by_Wendy_Meddour

And I've copied the reviews in their entirety onto the 'What Are You Reading ' page here... so you can have a look there, if you like.
Enjoy!

Redecorating????

2012-01-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

I'm about to spend some time doing a spot of 'redecorating' here at Fallen Star Stories. How successful I'll be, well, I'm not sure. (Just not that computer literate) This is for my own purposes really... an attempt to keep fresh and lively... not necessarily 'up to date', whatever that may mean in terms of the blogosphere. I just feel the desire for something a bit different staring at me when I open up my site.
When I get back to posting, it may look different, it may not.
I do want to thank all of you who follow this blog, and those of you who may not follow, but spend some time in your week checking in.
Oh, and before I forget, I want to express an BIG thank you to those wonderful people at Indigo. Someone there has been reading my blog and used a quote from Fallen Star Stories on the promotional poster (and it's on Amazon!) for 'Double Shadow' by Sally Gardner. Thank you, thank you, thank you.... it really made my whole year when I saw that!!!!

Favourites from 2011

2012-01-02T10:13:00.000-08:00

Yes, another year has come and gone, and a new one has begun. Welcome 2012!
Before jumping into the wonderful journey that is children's and YA books (and yes, I do mean BOOKS... contrary to a rumour that many are circulating, the printed word is NOT dead), I wanted to share with you a brief list of some of my very favourites from the vast number of exciting books published for young people in 2011. In no particular order:
Picture Books:
- AGAIN! by Emily Gravett
- The Cat and the Fiddle: a treasury of nursery rhymes by Jackie Morris
- The Lonely Beast by Chris Judge
- Wanted: the Perfect Pet by Fiona Roberton
- Ladder to the Moon by Maya Soetoro-Ng and Yuyi Morales (illustrations)
Novels for various ages:
- the 'Adventure Island' mystery series (books so far) by Helen Moss
- One Dog and His Boy by Eva Ibbotson
- When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
- The Haunting of Charity Delafield by Ian Beck
- The Sleeping Army by Francesca Simon
- The Windvale Sprites by Mackenzie Crook
- The Butterfly Heart by Paula Leyden
- Spirit of the Titanic by Nicola Pierce
- Twilight Robbery by Frances Hardinge
- Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent by Alan Early
- Double Shadow by Sally Gardner
and... what I still believe to be a perfect book after about 10 reads:
- A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, Siobhan Dowd and Jim Kay (illustrations)
I hope you've had the chance to enjoy a few of these (if not all) in the past year. If not, get cracking because 2012 looks like it's going to be another fantastic year in children's literature.

By the way, I wanted to give a big shout for my favourite children's books publisher of 2011. They are the brave and wonderful people at Little Island; publishing (just as it says on their logo) 'great books for kids and teens' right here in Dublin...... with more coming up on the horizon. Fabulous!

Who's A Happy Hugglewug, Then?

2011-12-21T13:14:00.000-08:00

Disney's London based production base has given the go-ahead for a new animated series 'The Happy Hugglemonsters' which will premiere in August 2012 on Disney Junior and will be airing in over 150 countries worldwide. This 52x11 minute series, aimed at preschool children, is based on the wonderful picture book 'I'm A Happy Hugglewug' by our wonderful, wonderful Niamh Sharkey.
And if all of that isn't enough to make you happy, the series will be produced by Brown Bag Films' Dublin-based studio.... making Happy Hugglewugs out of us all.
http://niamhsharkey.blogspot.com/2011/12/happy-hugglemonsters.html?spref=fb

Some of My Christmas and Winter Favourites

2011-12-18T16:18:00.000-08:00

We're at one week and counting until the big day! Every year, I always bring home one special book for the season, and my collection is growing exponentially. I'd like to take a moment to share with you a few of my favourites over the years. These books come out year after year for the whole family to enjoy. I hope you enjoy them as well.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
This book needs no introduction, but I need to add that my very favourite edition of this is the one illustrated by PJ Lynch...beautiful and evocative!

Twas the Night Before Christmas illustrated by Matt Tavares
Again, a story that needs no introduction and there are numerous editions available, with new editions published nearly every year. For me, the edition that sums up the time and the spirit of this story is illustrated in black and white by Matt Tavares. Timeless!

North Child by Edith Pattou
North Child is not really a Christmas story, but it is a beautiful and eloquent winters' tale. Based on the old fairy tale, East of the Sun, West of the Moon, Pattou tells the story of Rose, born the eighth child of a poor family, who is sent off with the White Bear to live in a castle in a mountain and break the enchantment that holds the Bear hostage. An exceptionally written novel for ages 10 years and up, this is one of my very favourite books.

The Jolly Christmas Postman by Janet & Allan Ahlberg
What a wonderful book for the younger children and the young at heart! It's Christmas Eve and the Jolly Postman is making some very special deliveries to some very familiar friends. Each page contains a letter to open (who doesn't like opening other people's post?); each one with a small gift... puzzles, games, pop-up cards. Just wonderful.

The Christmas Bear by Henrietta Stickland
Beautifully illustrated, Little Bear lives at the top of the world. When he accidentally falls into Santa's workshop one night, it's the start of an amazing adventure. Watch out for that naughty penguin... where's he got to now?

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
It just isn't Christmas, or winter for that matter, without The Snowman. Being a traditionalist (about some things, anyway) I strongly suggest picking up a copy without words. This is a book that the children (and me!... and maybe you, too.) will spend hours and hours pouring over the pages. A real memory to treasure.

Tumtum and Nutmeg's Christmas Adventure by Emily Bearn
Our friendly and intrepid mice are at it again. This adventure sees them out to deliver Lucy and Arthurs' letters to father Christmas wit the assistance of the terrifying Baron Toymouse in Toyland... and then there's those clockwork cats to contend with. Will Father Christmas receive the childrens' letters in time? A brilliant novel for younger children.

R.I.P. Russell Hoban

2011-12-14T14:13:00.000-08:00

True legend and most beloved author Russell Hoban has passed away at the age of 86. While his work was prolific to say the least, and he wrote across many genres, Hoban found his biggest comercial success with his children's books: The Mouse and His Child, The Marzipan Pig, and (my personal favourites) the Frances the Badger series: Bedtime for Frances was read over and over in our home.
It is fair to say that Hoban could be described as a maverick writer with truly original, creative gifts and talents and a unique ability to turn a plotline. His vision was truly unique in all his writing.
Hoban died last evening, 13th December. His unique vision, which was easily expressed in all his writings, will be remembered with great love and joy, and he will be truly missed.
Russell Hoban - born 4 February, 1925 died 13 December, 2011

Guardian Children's Advent Calendar

2011-12-13T23:53:00.000-08:00

It may be the 14th of December (where does the time go?), but it's not too late to check out the Guardian's Advent Calendar... even if you have to play a bit of catch up.... Harry Potter quiz, decorate the tree, listen to clips from some of your favourite children's/YA authors; there are 24 ways to count down the remaining days with all kinds of book-related fun. Have you learned how to draw a penguin yet?
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/interactive/2011/dec/01/count-down-christmas-childrens-books-interactive

Sarah Webb's Guide to Great Books for Christmas

2011-12-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

If you're still in a quandary as to what books the kids will be looking for this Christmas, check out Sarah Webb's suggestions in today's Independent. It's a great place to start and will set you straight as to what's great out there.
http://www.independent.ie/entertainment/books/childrens-books-wimpy-kids-and-skeleton-detectives-it-must-be-christmas-2954492.html

Brand New and Brilliant!

2011-12-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

Here's a few of the stunning brand new books out 9over the last couple of months) for various age groups. Each one is truly fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable:

The Windvale Sprites by Mackenzie Crook
The morning after a storm has swept across the country, Asa wakes up to two shocking discoveries. The first is that his sleepy little village, Windvale, is now completely unrecognisable due to all the damage. The second...among the debris that is now his back garden, Asa finds a tiny winged body; and it's not an insect. It appears to be a fairy. But fairies don't really exist... or do they? Fabulous story with marvellous illustrations throughout, all done by the author.

The Sleeping Army by Francesca Simon
Freya is an ordinary, contemporary school girl, living in a contemporary world with one very big difference.... the people still worship the ancient Norse gods. One night, while stuck with her father as he works the night shift in the British Museum, Freya finds herself inexplicably drawn to an ancient Viking horn. When she blows the horn, Freya, along with 3 chess pieces come to life, is immediately transported to Asgard. There she is charged with a dangerous mission, but one she can't refuse... to save the gods, herself, and the rest of the world. Dramatic, funny, rollicking adventure from the author of the Horrid Henry books for ages 8 to 12 years.

The Haunting of Charity Delafield by Ian Beck
An enchanting, thoroughly magical new fairy tale. Beck weaves the story of flame-haired Charity, who has grown up in her huge house (most of which she is forbidden to enter) with no friends other than her cat, due to a 'condition' she apparently suffers from. All of her young life, Charity has had a reoccurring dream of a corridor hidden somewhere in the house. When she discovers the corridor and enters it, she realises that everything is not exactly as she's always been lead to believe. Superb book for ages 8 to 12 years.

Ruby Redfort..Look Into My Eyes by Lauren Child
Ruby Redfort, 13 year old schoolgirl, is also a genius codebreaker,a bit of a detective, and a serious handful for her parents and teachers. This character was first introduced in the Clarice Bean novels and is now featuring in her first book, along with some very bad bad guys, a housekeeper who has disappeared, secret agents and a very loyal, and long-suffering best friend, Clancy. Hilarious spy adventure, not unlike the Nancy Drew stories... just more contemporary and very funny.

Deep, Deep Down by Garrett Carr
Andrew, Ewan and May (from The Badness of Ballydog and Lost Dogs) are back! In the mountains, by a serene, beautiful lake, life couldn't be more ideal. People live long and happy lives... in fact, they live much too long. But our three intrepid friends are about to put an end to all of that. That is, of course, unless the secret, hidden monster living at the bottom of the lake puts an end to them first. This entire series is tension-filled and really gripping.. and this one, I think it may be my favourite of the lot. Truly frightening, and a great read. For ages 11 years +.

The Double Shadow by Sally Gardner
For young adult readers, I'm not going to say too much about this book, because I've already talked endlessly about it. An exquisitely written historical/sci-fi-esque novel that consumes it's genres and turns them into something really rare. Brilliant writing and a wholly unique concept make this a must read for ages 14+.

Runelight by Joanne Harris
Those Norse gods (from her previous Runemarks) are back again, and, as usual, they are squabbling and fighting amongst themselves, while using us mere mortals as pawns in their game. The heroine this time is the feisty, fiery Maggie, a girl the same age as Maddy, but raised a world apart. A conflict between the two girls, a chilling, eerie prophecy from the oracle and twelve days until the end of the world! What more is there to say? Read this book and it's predecessor.... fabulous!

review: Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent

2011-12-05T12:04:00.000-08:00

Just a quick link for you all. I've had another review published on The Bookbag. Here's the link for my review of the fabulous 'Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent' by Alan Early, published by The Mercier Press. This is the first book of the 'Father of Lies Chronicles', and frankly... after reading this one, I just can't wait for book two!

http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php?title=Arthur_Quinn_and_the_World_Serpent_%28The_Father_of_Lies_Chronicles%29_by_Alan_Early

Books for Sharing.....

2011-12-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

Nothing helps young readers develop more than being read to at home. It helps them in school, helps their literacy and their imagination grow, and it creates a lifetime of memories and a deep love of books. Here's a few suggestions from this years' books for the whole family to gift, own and enjoy (in no particular order.)

Sally Go Round The Stars by Sarah Webb & Claire Ranson, illustrated by Steve McCarthy
A real treasure trove of traditional Irish rhymes from everybodys' childhood. This beautifully illustrated book will bring another generation of young readers the rhymes we knew from our own youths'. Pure delight! This is a must have for your home collection! (Royalties from this book all go to the National Children's Hospital Tallaght).

Nursery Rhymes (with CD) by The Speks
Loads of old nursery rhymes set to traditional Irish music, this will have the whole family up and dancing and singing along. Just brilliant! (And if you haven't caught one of the Speks gigs, yet, look out for them next year.... they're currently stuck on Glasses Island due to the winter weather!)

Again! by Emily Gravett
It's time for little dragon to go to sleep, so of course the favourite bedtime story is a must. But once is never enough. When Mummy dragon falls asleep from sheer exhaustion, there are extraordinary consequences to not heeding the pleas of AGAIN! AGAIN! A tale to which every child and their parents can relate, this is destined to become a firm favourite.

The Magic Beans by Julia Donaldson, Philip Pullman, Michael Morpurgo... et al
The very best authors in childrens' fiction have given us a dazzling anthology of tales to delight, entertain and infuse the imaginations of readers young and old. Rather than original writings, the authors have re-crafted the traditional stories that inspired and enthused them as children.

Even My Ears Are Smiling by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Babette Cole
No one can write poems that speak to the hearts and minds of children like Michael Rosen. Here's his new collection of poems that are insightful, accessible and just plain fun! The contemporary, quirky illustrations by Babette Cole work in perfect complement to Rosen's trademark voice.

The Highway Rat by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Alex Scheffler
The Highway Rat is a thief extraordinaire. He steals from all and shares with no one. None of the animals are safe from his greed and stealth. But will he finally meet his match in the form of a cunning duck? Rollicking, rhythmic... a classic from the team that gave us the Gruffalo.

The Cat and the Fiddle by Jackie Morris
This is a purely beautiful and elegant collection of nursery rhymes with exquisite illustrations, each one a perfect work of art. As you read through the book, watch each page closely where you find illustrated references of previous pages. This allows this book to become a journey through the land of rhyme... and a book that will be taken down and leisurely pondered through for hours on end.

Wanted: the Perfect Pet by Fiona Robertson
Henry wants a dog more than anything else in the world, so he takes out an ad in the newspaper to find 'the perfect pet'. Far away a lonely duck wants to be the perfect pet, but can't seem to find a home. Then the duck sees the ad and comes up with a (not so cunning) plan. This book is heart-warming and, frankly, hysterical!

Lost In The Toy Museum by David Lucas
Ever wondered what happens when at night in the toy museum when the visitors go home and the lights go out? Bunting, the old and very sensible cat does his best to keep an eye on everything, but all the other toys just want to have some fun! Wonderful storyline matched with great, colourful, contemporary illustrations make this one to read again and again.

Usborne Illustrated Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales

Twelve classic fairy tales from the pen of Hans Christian Andersen, retold for younger children and illustrated with pure enchantment, this is another in the Usborne Illustrated Story collection... all of which deserve a place on the family bookshelf to share with all.

Happy December!!!

2011-12-01T16:24:00.000-08:00

It's December 1st and the holiday shopping season is now in full swing. We've got the Late, Late Toy Show tomorrow night, and there have been loads of recommendations in the press and online lately in regards to which books to gift this season. (It was also really interesting to learn that, this year, here in Ireland, the gifts we all most want to receive is....BOOKS!) I just thought I'd add to the mix with a few suggestions of my own.
These are not necessarily echoing the recommendations already made by many of my brilliant colleagues and friends in the book business. I thought I'd try to have some alternatives that haven't received as much recognition...though I think you'll find that's not necessarily true, either.
Anyway.. today, I'm going to recommend some series. I'm frequently asked about series at work. It makes sense. You're looking for something that will really excite your favourite young people about reading, and if there is more than one book, you can keep them reading and enthusiastic. So, while the obvious choices are receiving loads of recognition, and the kids are really enjoying Wimpy Kid (Kinney), the Inheritance series (Paolini), Skulduggery Pleasant (Landy), Artemis Fowl (Colfer), Inkheart (Funke), along with all the fabulous young adult series out there... and of course Harry Potter is still going strong, here's a few others to entertain and capture the imagination.

-The Ranger's Apprentice series by John Flanagan
There are eleven books in this fantastic adventure/fantasy series for ages 10+.. and girls enjoy it as much as boys do... and adults who enjoy their fantasy reads really get into it as well. Gripping and highly addictive reads!

-The Adventure Island Mysteries by Helen Moss
For ages 8 to 11 years, this is a great series that has the tone and formula of Enid Blyton, but is very contemporary. Loads of suspense and mysteries to be solved in this six book (to date) series. Wonderful reads!

-Tumtum and Nutmeg series by Emily Bearn
Tumtum and Nutmeg are two mice who have made their rather elaborate home in a disused cupboard in a cottage. The cottage is inhabited by children Lucy and Arthur and their absent-minded father. So far sounds a bit twee, doesn't it? Not at all. This exciting series for ages 7 to 10 is packed with action, adventure, a battle or two and plenty of drama. Very, very well written and a pure joy! Six books in all, plus a Christmas adventure.

- The Sister's Grimm by Michael Buckley
You'll be totally captivated by this series of 8 books (the 9th and final installment is due out in May 2012) following the life of Sabrina and Daphne Grimm: descendants of the original Brothers Grimm who have, much to their dismay, discovered that the fairy tales aren't simply fairy tales at all. The tales are actually a casebook of magical crimes. Brilliant! Ages 8 to 12

- Young Sherlock Holmes by Andrew Lane
Lane has given us great insight into the development of the world's first forensic detective, as well as 4 cracking adventures that are a must, not just for young readers, but for Sherlock fans of any age. (ages 10 +)

- The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness by Michelle Paver
I'm not going to go on about this series, because I could talk/type for hours about the sheer genius at work here. Brilliant writing that is clearly the result of insightful research; a real sense of time, place, texture... following the story of Torak, an orphaned young man coming of age in a hostile and deeply mysterious world six thousand years ago. Incredibly magnificent! ages 12 +

Out Now ......

2011-11-29T15:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, dear friends! It's out now and in hard copy... and very green! The new Inis Magazine 36 is out today! So, if you prefer your children's books commentary in actual paper and ink, get your NOW!!!!
Inis Magazine... THE Irish children's books magazine published through those fantastic advocates of children's literature for all ages.....Children's Books Ireland.
http://www.inismagazine.ie/

Eleanor Farjeon Award 2011

2011-11-29T13:54:00.000-08:00

This just in courtesy of our dear friend, Book Sniffer (see Facebook); The winner of this years Eleanor Farjeon Award is:

The Federation of Children’s Book Groups – This is a voluntary, grass-roots reading charity based in the United Kingdom with children and books at its heart. Made up of numerous groups across the length and breadth of the country, the Federation works with tens of thousands of children and young people each year.The FCBG was first set into motion over forty years ago as a parenting group whose aim was to encourage children to read and to support families. Over the years FCBG has grown into a nationwide network in the UK, but at it's core remains one simple directive: encourage a love of reading in children and you enrich their lives forever...

Many heart felt congratulations to the Federation of Children's Book Groups. What a great ethic to have!!!

Now, if you're wondering what the Eleanor Farjeon Award is, here's the explanation directly from Children's Book Circle's site:

The CBC is proud to host the annual Eleanor Farjeon Award, which recognises an outstanding contribution to the world of children�s books by an individual or organisation. Librarians, authors, publishers, teachers, reviewers and others who have given exceptional service to our industry are eligible for nomination. CBC members nominate suitable candidates and then vote for the winner. The award ceremony itself is an enjoyable evening, with the winner�s acceptance speech being a particular highlight.

For more information follow the link to the Children's Book Circle:

http://www.childrensbookcircle.org.uk/farjeon.asp

Puffin Ireland...gone????

2011-11-28T12:31:00.000-08:00

No...well, yes...but no. I'm sharing this link with David Maybury's blog. David has a truly good explanation of what has been happening at Puffin Ireland. A few weeks back, the news came through that Puffin Ireland was to lose it's appointed children's editor, the absolutely wonderful Paddy O'Doherty. It seems that Penguin Ireland had decided they no longer needed an in-house children's editor. (Yet another victim of the current recessionary climate and it's effects on the publishing industry.) But, they still insist that Puffin Ireland has not closed. Michael McLoughlin (Penguin Ireland MD) says that manuscript submissions are still very welcome, and that he and Shannon Park from Puffin Uk will continue to work with assigned authors and illustrators.
I'm just going to quote David here... as he said it so very well:
"Removing the Puffin Ireland editorial position may make good sense if you crunch numbers – but the investment in children’s fiction and the growing relationship and goodwill with reader markets, organisations, booksellers, media, libraries and beyond has hit a hitch.

Congratulations and deserved well done to Paddy O’Doherty for the stalwart work, incredible potential and the brilliant list that she has created for Penguin Ireland/Puffin over the last two years. I just hope they continue to push as hard to continue the work she started."

I was really sorry to hear this news. Paddy O'Doherty brought an incredible amount of skill, dedication and energy to this position, as she has done in the past with all her other accomplishments. She is a true voice for children's literature. All the best in the future, Paddy!

http://www.davidmaybury.ie/journal/?p=9558

Galway Christmas Market Village

2011-11-28T02:59:00.000-08:00

The Galway Christmas Market Village is back, and I have to say it looks fantastic! But what I really wanted to post about is the wonderful, beautiful carousel! Warringtons have set up a 'proper' old style carousel that I can't wait to have a go on (big kid that I am!) So I just wanted to share a few photos of it. If you're in Galway, take this opportunity for children and adults both to have a little taste of nostalgia.

R.I.P. Anne McCaffrey

2011-11-23T05:01:00.000-08:00

It is with great sadness that I report the death of the amazing fantasy writer Anne McCaffrey.
She had suffered a stroke at her home in Ireland on Monday, 21st November and passed away a short time later. Anne McCaffrey was 85 years of age. She is survived by her two sons and a daughter.
One of the pioneers of fantasy writing, McCaffrey was best known for her 'Dragonriders of Pern' series, great adventure stories populated by characters with nearly unpronounceable names and heavily focused on the political and social issues of the time. But the book of which she herself was most proud was 'The Ship Who Sang', about the use of people with disabled bodies as intelligence workers for mechanical ships. She receives much of the credit for paving the way for female fantasy writers.
Personally, Anne McCaffrey gave me many hours of pure fantasy escape and delight. She will be sorely missed.
http://io9.com/5862031/rip-anne-mccaffrey-creator-of-pern-and-other-classic-books

Spirit of the Titanic review

2011-11-22T09:57:00.000-08:00

I'm just taking a moment to point out my review of Nicola Pierce's wonderful novel (ages 10+) 'Spirit of the Titanic. It's up on The Bookbag now.
This is a truly wonderful novel for young people that will take you right back to the early 20th century and the construction and ill-fated maiden voyage of the ship they all thought was 'unsinkable'. A unique plot line and remarkable characterisations make this book as unforgettable as the Titanic itself. And with 2012 marking 100 years since the Titanic disaster, it's one I strongly recommend we all read.
Spirit of the Titanic
author: Nicola Pierce
published by O'Brien Press, 2011
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php?title=Spirit_of_the_Titanic_by_Nicola_Pierce

HUGO is Coming!

2011-11-17T13:59:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about seeing this film! Based on the exceptional, elegant book 'The Invention of Hugo Cabret' by Brian Selznick (an incredible story told in words and pictures...all 526 pages of it!), the film is directed by Martin Scorsese and has a cast that is just unbelievable!Coming very, very soon! This is one film you will not want to miss.

Irish Book Awards... and the winners are....

2011-11-17T13:48:00.000-08:00

Of course, we are talking about the winners of the children's categories, just announced this evening.
For the senior category, the winner is : Anna Carey for her wonderful, funny, fresh novel 'The Real Rebecca'! Congratulations, Anna!!!!

And in the junior category, the winner is:
that lively, colourful and delightfully expressive picturebook, 'The Lonely Beast' by Chris Judge. Congratulations, Chris!!!!

And Now....Costa Children's Book Awards Shortlist

2011-11-16T02:11:00.000-08:00

The shortlist for this year's Costa Book Awards are out, so I wanted to give a quick shout out for their Children's category shortlist. Four books, all completely diverse in their focus, and all superb selections:
The Unforgotten Coat by Frank Cottrell Boyce
Small Change For Stuart by Lissa Evans
Flip by Martin Bedford
Blood Red Road by Moira Young
The category winners will be announced on Wednesday, January 4, 2012. Best of luck to all the nominees... and to the judges. This will be a difficult choice for them!
http://www.costabookawards.com/book-awards.html

Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award 2012

2011-11-15T15:40:00.000-08:00

There has been an increase in the number of candidates nominated for the 2012 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. One of the most prestigious awards in children's literature, there are now 184 candidates representing 66 countries around the globe. While the jury will well and truly have their work cut out for them with so many candidates, Larry Lempert, chairman of the jury has said;
"It’s very gratifying that the number of nominated candidates and countries represented continue to increase ..... The jury is full of enthusiasm for the exciting and difficult task to consider the work of so many qualified candidates."
And perhaps most exciting of all for us, three candidates from Ireland have joined a list of eminent names from all over the world. Conor Kostick, author of the brilliant, exciting and unique Avatar Chronicles (among others), Siobhan Parkinson, whose works include Bruised, Something Invisible, Four Kids Three Cats Two Cows and One Witch (Maybe); as well as being the driving force behind Little Island and our own very first Children's Laureate and Ireland's greatest living storyteller - seanchai Eddie Lenihan are listed along side the likes of Eric Carle, David Almod, Eva Eriksson, Michael Rosen, Jan Pienkowski... and many, many more. Great company to be in!!! Congratulations to all.
The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award is presented to authors, illustrators, storytellers and those active in reading promotion. It is a worldwide event and is presented annually. 2012 will mark the 10th annual Astrid Lindren Memorial Award. The latest list of candidates was revealed at the Frankfurt Book Fair on 13th October. The winner will be announced on 20th March, 2012.
http://www.alma.se/en/
http://www.alma.se/en/Nominations/Candidates/2012/

Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2011

2011-11-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

And while we are talking about winners; the winners of this year's Roald Dahl Funny Prize are also currently celebrating. For the age seven to fourteen category, the winner is:

Liz Pichon for The Brilliant World of Tom Gates
(truly laugh out loud funny!)

and winning in the six and under category :
Cat's Ahoy by Peter Bently and illustrated by Jim Field
(and a personal favourite of mine!)

Big congratulations to all!

And The Winner Is......

2011-11-10T13:34:00.000-08:00

Just announced; the winner of this year's Guardian Children's Fiction Prize is Return To Ribblestrop by Andy Mulligan.
"Andy Mulligan's Return to Ribblestrop, about a school filled with pupils including Colombian gangster's son Sanchez, self-harming Miles, wild Millie and a motley crew of orphans, is no Malory Towers (even the school motto is "Life is Dangerous"). A travelling zoo is adopted by the children before term has started, with a sinister policeman, hidden treasure, football and friendship all to be tackled before the year is up."
Beating out the worthy competition in the only children's award judged only by writers, Mulligan receives £1,500 and the honour of following in such footsteps as Philip Pullman, Anne Fine, Jacqueline Wilson and Michelle Paver (to name a few).
Many hearty congratulations to Andy Mulligan and Return To Ribblestrop!

http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2011/nov/10/guardian-childrens-fiction-prize-andy-mulligan

Guardian Children's Fiction Prize

2011-11-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

The Guardian Children's Fiction Prize 2011 will be announced tomorrow! So, let's have another quick look at the shortlist to remind ourselves:

My Name Is Mina by David Almond

Return to Ribblestrop by Andy Mulligan

Moon Pie by Simon Mason

Twilight Robbery by Frances Hardinge

'Inheritance' Cycle... the beginning of the end

2011-11-07T14:10:00.000-08:00

Christopher Paolini fans everywhere now know that his incredible series which began with 'Eragon' is about to come to a close. Tomorrow, the final book 'Inheritance' will hit the shelves. And while it has taken some time (as any fan will tell you), it will be worth the wait.

"Long months of training and battle have brought victories and hope, but they have also brought heartbreaking loss. And still the real battle lies ahead: they must confront Galbatorix. When they do, they will have to be strong enough to defeat him. And if they cannot, no one can. There will be no second chances.

The Rider and his dragon have come farther than anyone dared to hope. But can they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaësia? And if so, at what cost?"

One Book One Galway

2011-11-07T13:24:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow marks the launch of the One Book One Galway reading project. This launch is taking place in the Galway Museum at 11am. Thoroughout November, there will be a number of activities taking place at various libraries in Galway; workshops with the wonderful Rab Fulton, local writer and famed storyteller of spooky (and other) tales; the Intergenerational Book Club will meet at the Westside Library... well, just have a look at the website and you'll see for yourself!
The aim of this incentive, promoted by the Home School and Community Liaison officers, is to get all of Galway city reading one particular book over one month. And the book selected is Kensuke's Kingdom by Michael Morpurgo. This is a truly wonderful book that will be thoroughly enjoyed by children and adults alike. So, it's time to show your support and enthusiasm for reading. Visit your local libraries, your favourite bookshop.... and get your hands on a copy of Kensuke's Kingdom!

http://onebookonegalway.com/
If you want any further information on the project, contact One Book One Galway at info@onebookonegalway.com

Jeff Kinney Coming To Dublin

2011-11-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

For all you Wimpy Kid fans out there (and who isn't these days).... Jeff Kinney will be coming to Dublin to celebrate the publication of the latest exciting adventure... Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever!!! Jeff will be appearing at the Liberty Hall Theatre, Eden Quay on the 28th November at 7pm. And he'll also have two very special guest appearances by actors the Wimpy Kid movie actors: Zachary Gordon (Greg) and Robert Capron (Rowley). This is a ticketed event, so you'll need to get in there and get your tickets NOW. To book your tickets, please contact the box office on 0818205205 or website:www.ctb.ie . Cost per ticket:€5.00.... what a bargain!!!!

Incidentally, the new book, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever is due to be released on 16 November. Much excitement!

Very Longlists for the CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals 2012

2011-11-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

Attached are the links for the just announced longlists for the extremely prestigious CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals. I won't go into huge detail at this time. Both longlists are very long... and all of the listed books are truly incredible books.
On the CILIP Carnegie list are such worthy titles as A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, The Devil Walks by Anne Fine, David Almond's My Name Is Mina, Twilight Robbery by Frances Hardinge..... please click on the link below and have a look for yourself! It is amazing!
http://www.carnegiegreenaway.org.uk/pressdesk/press.php?release=pres_nom_car_2012.html

On the Kate Greenaway longlist, we have such beauties as A Monster Calls illustrated by Jim Kay, Cat's Ahoy illustrated by Jim Field, Wolf Won't Bite by Emily Gravett, Tiny Little Fly illustrated by Kevin Waldron... the list goes on and on. Here's the link FYI:
http://www.carnegiegreenaway.org.uk/pressdesk/press.php?release=pres_nom_green_2012.html

Another Award for the Fantastic Patrick Ness, and more great news.

2011-11-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Last night (November 4th) Patrick Ness won yet another award for his fantastic and amazing work. This time, the book honoured was A Monster Calls, which won the Galaxy National Book Award. As such... Patrick will be featured on Booked, their six-part television series on More4, which will begin on November 13th.... and... you can now vote for A Monster Calls to win the overall Book of the Year award.
A Monster Calls has also been shortlisted for the Red House Book Awards, the only UK book award voted on exclusively by young readers.
And, if that isn't enough for you... A Monster Calls has been longlisted for the extremely prestigious CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals. Yes, that's right...both of them!
My very serious advice to you at this time is... if you haven't yet read A Monster Calls, this is one book you really must read. It is no exaggeration for me to say, it will change you. Riveting and deeply affective, this is perhaps the most beautiful book I've read in a long time.
Here's the link for Patrick's own website, where you can keep up with this news and many other pieces of information.
http://www.patrickness.com/

New Release: The Double Shadow by Sally Gardner

2011-11-02T12:56:00.000-07:00

One of the fantastic new books out now for young adults is 'The Double Shadow' by Sally Gardner. Gardner has written such wonderful books as 'I, Coriander', 'The Red Necklace' and for younger readers 'Lucy Willow'. Her latest offering is a compelling, riveting read about a 17 year old girl, Amaryllis, living just prior to World War II who becomes trapped with her own memories inside a 'picture palace' designed by her father to keep her safe. Truly superb!

Happy Halloween!!!!

2011-10-31T08:23:00.000-07:00

Yes it's the spookiest day of the year once again. Happy Halloween to you all! This is my favourite day and to celebrate with you, I thought I'd share my favourite Halloween film of all time. If you haven't seen it, yet, it's the perfect one to watch after the trick-or-treating is done, or even during the Halloween party. Set's the tone for the rest of the winter season.
Here's a taster. ENJOY!!!!

More excitement from 'Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent'

2011-10-27T02:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, there is indeed more excitement. First of all, Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent' by Alan Early (Mercier Press) has been shortlisted for the Bord Gais Energy Irish Book Awards in the Children's Book of the Year-Sr. category! And now, there is an opportunity for five lucky people to win a copy of this exciting, brilliantly written adventure from rollercoaster.ie. And all you have to do is enter!!! Couldn't be easier...
http://www.rollercoaster.ie/Competitions/tabid/187/Competition/475/Default.aspx
And... if you haven't found the website yet, here's the link you need to learn much, much more about the world of Arthur Quinn, the dangers that lurk beneath the streets of Dublin, the awakening of the Viking gods; plus you can download a screen saver, print off a Rune bookmark, play games, ask the Norn about you own destiny. It's simply fantastic!
http://www.arthurquinn.ie/

Irish Book Awards 2011

2011-10-21T05:27:00.000-07:00

The shortlist for the Irish Book Awards 2011 were announced yesterday, and there is very steep competition in both the Childrens' categories. For the Children's Book of the Year- Jr.., we have some truly beautifully entries: Stuck by Oliver Jeffers, Marco Moves In by Gerry Boland, Sally Go Round The Stars by Sarah Webb and Steve McCarthy, The Lonely Beast by Chris Judge and Adam's World of Wonders by Benji Bennett. In the Children's Book of the Year - Sr. category (ages 8+); And For Your Information by Denise Deegan, Arthur Quinn and the World Snake by Alan Early, The Saga of Larten Crepsley:Ocean of Blood by Darren Shan, The Real Rebecca by Anna Carey and Skulduggery Pleasant: The Death Bringer by Derek Landy. All very worthy contestants, I assure you. Now... who to vote for......

'Reading With Kids' from the Guardian and Observer

2011-10-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

Free this weekend, October 22-23, The Guardian and Observer will be including 'Reading With Kids', a great two part guide loaded with expert advice, useful ideas and tons of information and book suggestions on books for children from picture books right through young adult novels, all to help nurture that love of books and reading. Saturday, the first part will include input on books for ages 0-7 years. Sunday's second part will give information on books for ages 8+.
The link below will take you through to a great video of children telling you how important reading is to them... why they like it, what challenges them, where their favourite place to read is...fantastic!
Look for 'Reading With Kids' this weekend. Not only will it help you help your kids, but it's just in time for helping you with t hose gifts you'll be looking for very shortly!
http://gu.com/p/32n2x

Also, here's a link for a brilliant article posted ahead of this weekend's 'Reading With Kids'. Lucy Mangan considers 'What makes a classic?' when it comes to children's books. Why do some books last for generations and what is it they have that others simply don't? Mangan discusses the dynamics of the 'two audiences' that are involved in the reading of children's books... essentially, adults, most likely parents and other 'learned' grown-ups and the intended audience, children. It always fascinates me that we adults spend so much time hashing over the merits and demerits of children's books. Frequently, we forget that the ultimate voice in this discussion of what makes a children's classic or even a really good kids book is in fact, the voice of the children.
Here's a quote:

"Nevertheless, not every old, well-written, "worthy" book becomes a classic. Why not? Because of that other audience – the child readers. Ultimately, the books have to be read, and re-read, by children."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/series/reading-with-kids

Happy Haunting Stories....

2011-10-16T13:24:00.000-07:00

Some great books out in time for the spooky season.....

RTEjrs. Little Pages Programme

2011-10-16T01:19:00.000-07:00

A brand new radio programme is on this interether this morning. (In fact, I'm listening to it as we speak.) This programme, presented by Grainne Clear, shares children's books, old and new, with its' listeners. Beginning with The BFG by Roald Dahl, the listener is treated to readings and poignant discussions, geared towards children of all ages, some of which are read by children! It's just brilliant to hear children in discussion about children's books. They explain what they want and expect and perceive out of books/literature with such clarity. Refreshing and wonderful, this show is scheduled for every Sunday morning at 9am, then repeated each Friday at 5pm. And it's 15 minutes well spent, I assure you!!!

Also, there is a series of podcasts aimed at parents in the works to discuss such topics as:
"how picture books work, why children like to be scared, the childhood love of the grotesque and bizarre, and many other themes which will help parents understand the workings of children’s books".

http://www.rte.ie/digitalradio/player/liveplayer_av.html?http://dj.rte.ie/vodfeeds/feedgenerator/videos/live/?id=20&source=rte.ie,http://dj.rte.ie/vodfeeds/feedgenerator/videos/live/?id=20&source=rte.ie,flash,200

BABORO OPENS!!!!!

2011-10-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

Get yourselves down to Quay Street between 2 and 5pm tomorrow (that's Sunday, October 16th) for the amazing Opening Party of this year's Baboro International Arts Festival for Children. Das Papiertheatre from Germany will be creating an art installation in Galway City Centre and the streets will be teaming with party atmosphere! Mr. Whippy Soundsystem, street games, music, art... all in celebration of Baboro's 15th year! And it's all FREE! You've just got to be there!!!

The Bookbag.... Fly By Night

2011-10-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

I'm just as pleased as I can be to tell you that I've got another review published in 'The Bookbag.' In case you haven't heard of 'The Bookbag', this is an online site that publishes TONS of wonderful reviews, children, adults, fiction, non-fiction... just about anything you could be looking for. Here's a quote from their 'About Us' page, just to give you a real sense of what they are about.

"Firstly, and most importantly, we would like you to think of The Bookbag as a homely, comfortable place. The corner of your local library perhaps, where you can relax in convivial company and find some suggestions for books to read. We don't have an 'angle'. We're not looking to force feed you the latest books on the shelves. We're not tied to a particular genre. We're not interested in what's fashionable. We just want to share our thoughts with you, if you'd like us to."

And now, I've got a comprehensive review of 'Fly By Night' by Frances Hardinge...one of my favourite books by one of my favourite authors published, along with my review of 'The Butterfly Heart' by Paula Leyden... a simply beautiful book that must be read! Very chuffed with myself, I must say. And very grateful to Sue and Jill at The Bookbag.

http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php?title=Fly_by_Night_by_Frances_Hardinge

Little Island Presents.... Annie Graves!

2011-10-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the build up to that creepiest of times, Halloween, those brilliant and brave folks at Little Island have faced their fears and published this wonderful and weird, creative and creepy series of books by Annie Graves. WHAT? You've never heard of Annie Graves?!? Well, I'll just quote the bio from Little Island....

Annie Graves is twelve years old, and she has no intention of ever growing up. She is, conveniently, an orphan, and lives at an undisclosed address in the Glasnevin area of Dublin with her pet toad, Much Misunderstood, and a small black kitten, Hugh Shalby Nameless. You needn’t think she goes to school – pah! – or has anything as dull as brothers and sisters or hobbies, but let’s just say she keeps a large cauldron on the stove.

This is not her first book. She has written four, so far, none of which is her first.

And I have to say, the books are great.. truly creepy, but great. So if you're planning a bit of a story-sharing party for the season, may I suggest that you check The Nightmare Club series. There are four so far, but Annie herself assures us that there will be more.

http://www.littleisland.ie/content/welcome-little-island

The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse

2011-10-08T01:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a wonderful video visit with Eric Carle (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) in celebration of his new picture book, 'The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse'. Inspired by the work of Franz Marc, the famous Expressionist painter and founder of the artists' group 'Der Blaue Reiter' (The Blue Rider), this vivid, lively picture book is a unique celebration and encouragement of the imagination.

Book Launch: BINJI - Madra ar Strae

2011-10-06T23:40:00.000-07:00

Futa Fata is proud to announce the launch of a new picture book ( in Irish)! This Saturday, 8th October at 12 noon in the Galway City Library, Augustine Street, Galway; Leo Moran (The Saw Doctors) will officially launch BINJI - Madra ar Strae, written by the wonderful Patricia Forde and illustrated by Brian Fitzgerald. Patricia is the author of Frogs Do Not Like Dragons and it's sequel, Hedgehogs Do Not Like Heights, as well as the thoroughly delightful Citi Cearc. All are welcome to attend, especially children. Look forward to seeing you there.
http://www.futafata.com/

Children's Book Festival 2011

2011-10-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

With the CBI Children's Book Festival only days away, we are looking forward to events all over the country. Here's the link to the CBI (brand new and shiny) blog, where you can follow along with all the events and get the latest.....

http://www.childrensbooksireland.ie/blog/eat-books/

The Double Shadow by Sally Gardner

2011-10-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

I recently read the proof copy for Sally Gardner's new book for young adults, The Double Shadow and, I have to say, it was fantastic! Sally Gardner has become one of my favourite authors, regardless of the age group she's writing for. I, Coriander was absolute magic, and quite a few schools in the area use it as a class novel. The Red Necklace, which is a younger teen book that takes place during the French Revolution paints a very powerful picture, not simply of the time, but also of the mindset of the people in the context of their surroundings. With this new book, Gardner offers us a gripping psychological/family portrait combined with a science-fiction thriller that is outstanding. Coming in November, Orion have just released the trailer.

....and... It's Also Time for Baboro

2011-10-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

...and the Baboro International Arts Festival for Children will run from October 16 through the 23rd, right here in good old Galway!

Follow the link for a fanatstic programme:
http://www.baboro.ie/programme/

It's BookFest Time!

2011-10-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

Happy October... remember, it's BookFest time. Children's book related events are happening all over Ireland!

Guardian Children's Fiction Prize Shortlist

2011-09-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

The judging panel of the prestigious Guardian Children's Fiction Prize has announced the 2011 shortlist. The panel, consisting of Julia Eccleshare (chair), Michelle Paver, Julia Golding and Marcus Sedgwick have chosen the following four books:

My Name Is Mina, by David Almond (Hodder, £6.99). Age: 9+
In My Name Is Mina David Almond reintroduces readers to the girl next door who, in his bestselling first novel Skellig shared in the discovery of the mysterious eponymous creature in a dilapidated garage. We already know about Mina's love of nature, her passion for freedom, her struggle for truth. Now, through a series of reflections and brief stories told in many different styles, Mina describes her feelings on the death of her father, her catastrophic experiences at school, her fears and hopes, especially for the fledgling birds she watches closely from her perch up a tree. Almond promotes and celebrates freedom for children and their thinking in this lyrical book about growing up.
Return to Ribblestrop, by Andy Mulligan (Simon & Schuster, £6.99). Age: 10+

Ribblestrop Towers, a school with a healthy scorn for timetables, tests and inspections, provides an amusing background for a clutch of wild adventures in this ebullient sequel. There's treasure hidden deep in the vaults of the building, which attracts a bent copper and his sidekicks, among others. To find it, they must get past the local monks, whose vow of silence makes them less than helpful. Meanwhile, a new term begins with the arrival of a truckload of wild animals and their ageing minder. Biology lessons are now hands-on, including helping a panther give birth to her cubs, while circus skills are practised at all available moments. A boy with a gun who is mad enough to use it, a new boy with mechanical skills beyond his years and a football match with a difference all make Ribblestrop a delight to return to.
Moon Pie, by Simon Mason (David Fickling, £10.99). Age: 10+

Troublesome children are familiar in fiction; parents behaving badly less so, perhaps because the reasons may be sadder and harder to resolve. In this touching, bittersweet story, Martha deals imaginatively and bravely with her father's increasingly erratic behaviour after her mother dies. Shielding him from other adults' pity and blame while also protecting her younger brother Tug could be daunting. But Martha is resourceful and she keeps everything in perspective. And, despite it all, she keeps her own dream alive and with it a sense of hope. Mason doesn't flinch from great sadness in a delicately told, warm-hearted story with a triumphant ending.
Twilight Robbery, by Frances Hardinge (Macmillan, £6.99). Age: 11+

Mosca Mye, the gutsy orphaned heroine of Fly By Night, returns in Twilight Robbery, ducking and weaving her way through a darkly sinister world. Fleeing from their past misdemeanours and those who have suffered from them, Mosca and her devious companion Eponymous Clent arrive disguised at the City of Toll. An unusual place, it has two personalities: Toll-by-Night and Toll-by-Day. More than that, there's a price to be paid for entering and leaving Toll. Mosca and Clent have to learn the rules of this devious place and to unravel the complicated plot that binds the city to its unsavoury customs. As befits a story that revolves around the power of books and the pleasure of reading, Twilight Robbery is a linguistic delight, phrased with precision and a strong and finely tuned wit.

The Guardian Children's Fiction Prize will be announced on Thursday, 10 November at a ceremony at King's Palace in London.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/sep/30/guardian-childrens-fiction-prize-shortlist

The Humble Beginnings of Bumble (-Ardy)

2011-09-30T10:25:00.000-07:00

With Bumble-Ardy out on the shelves now (which thrills and delights me...I'm sure you can tell), I thought I'd share with you the very beginning of the Bumble-Ardy. Maurice Sendak first began to develop the character in 1971, in an animated short for TV's Sesame Street by Jim Henson. In the short film, Bumble-Ardy was a nine year old boy who invites nine swine over for a party while his mum is at work. Enjoy!

NEW FROM DR. SUESS!!!!!

2011-09-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

OUT NOW! The Bippolo Seed and other lost stories by Dr. Suess. And it's wonderful! This collection includes seven original stories by Dr. Suess that were originally published in Redbook magazine in 1950 and 1951 (when Dr. Suess was becoming Dr. Suess.) Never before published in a book before, they seemed to have 'disappeared', until the were recovered by Charles Cohen. On the above video, you can hear all about their discovery and road to republication by Cohen and a few publishers at Random House Books for Young Readers Group. Fascinating history.... and a fabulous book!

A Monster Calls Trailer

2011-09-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

Here's the magnificent trailer for Patrick Ness' 'A Monster Calls', which was based on an idea and notes left behind by the late Siobhan Dowd. This book is, in my opinion, possibly the best book released this year, if not in a good few years. If you haven't read it yet, young or old, I strongly recommend it. It will change you...and is completely unforgettable.

Sow And Grow! Living Gardens!

2011-09-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

This is a lovely website for children/families/schools. Aimed to 'nurture with nature', Sow and Grow works with schools, creches, after-school programmes, to give children the freedom to explore and learn, use their senses.... all in nature and in the garden. This is something children desperately need in these times, where far too much time is taken up by indoor activities, and by the fact that the world is not necessarily 'child-friendly', in that we must be much more cautious in letting our children run free in the fields and forests, like we once did.
http://www.sowandgrow.ie/

And, for those of us in the west, I do really need to point out Kay Synott's lovely 'Living Gardens' website. Kay does exactly the same thing as Sow and Grow, with much enthusiasm, knowledge and energy here in the west. Kay has (and does) worked with many, many schools and groups throughout the Galway area.
http://www.livinggardens.ie/
Now, I know it's autumn, and getting darker and colder, and we don't normally think of gardening activities at this time of year.... but this is exactly the time to get things rolling. So all you schools, community centres; even those of you planning birthday parties; check out these wonderful websites and see what they have going. It may be exactly what you're looking for!

APPLE DAY! Sunday September 25!

2011-09-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, September 25th is Apple Day in Scariff, co Clare (sponsored by Irish Seed Savers.... in fact, this whole weekend is Apple Weekend). With loads of activities and events, there's plenty for the kids! (Bug hunts, face painting, apple tasting.... who doesn't like a good bug hunt?). So, if you're looking for something brilliant to do this weekend; here's the schedule of events!
http://www.irishseedsavers.ie/blog/2011/events/12-to-5-pm-supporters-day-24th-and-open-to-the-general-public-on-the-25th-september-apple-weekend-schedule/

Sea2Sky Festival in Salthil

2011-09-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow sees European Researchers Night arrive in Salthill for the first time ever. This event show cases science on a grand scale, totally 800 venues in 320 cities across Europe celebrating this momentous event. Ireland's participation will take place in Salthill, Galway as the Sea2Sky festival. This is a free, family-oriented event at which hundreds of scientists will showcase their work in variety of fields including Astronomy, Marine Science and Atmospherics. There will also be a variety of musical and entertainment events for the young and old.
"Exhibits throughout the day will allow the public to learn more about whales and dolphins, take a 3D tour of the universe, tour the Galway Atlantaquaria, check-out scientific demonstrations, and take part in a variety of other hands-on activities.
Scientists will be on hand in the main exhibition hall in Leisureland where stands will display areas of science from energy research and marine life to the study of the solar system. Visitors will have a chance to explore the mini-sea exploration vehicle which was used by scientists in the recent discovery of hydrovents deep in the Atlantic."
Our good friend and storyteller extraordinaire, Rab Swannock Fulton will even be there to delight us all with 'Wonder Tales for Youngsters' at 4:30pm, 'Magical Sea Tales' at 5:30pm and 'Scary Tales (for older children and adults) at 6:30pm - all in the Circus Tent at Leisureland and all for FREE!
THis, plus a host of displays, demonstrations and free admission to the Atlantiquarium and all it's exhibits...from 11am through to 11pm.
Here's the programme link. It's a can't-miss-event!
http://www.sea2sky.ie/wordpress/events

Guardian Interview with Maurice Sendak

2011-09-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today's Guardian features an article on children's picture book author Maurice Sendak speaking to the New York Times, in which he states emphatically that today's children's books (and I'm sure we're talking about books for young children) "aren't wild enough." Children's books are too safe and "are not always truthful or faithful to what's going on with children," says Sendak. In many ways, I think he may be right. In recommending his own book, Where The Wild Things Are' to parents for their children, I am frequently greeted with the response ,'On no. I don't want to frighten the child. S/He'd be too sensitive for that,' leaving me with the distinct impression that it mat actually be the adult that's worried. Too often we are lulled into a belief that a book that expresses wildness or danger or rebellion will frighten children, or more dangerously, 'give them ideas.' Those frightening thoughts, those worries or ideas are already there. Picture books, books in general give children a safe and protected environment to voice their fears, their concerns and to see these concerns played out in a way that the child understands and can consume. It has been stated quite often that the point of fairytales was not the 'happily ever after', but the opportunity to see danger, to view the dark side and allow an understanding of the world through fantasy. Believe it or not, children do understand the difference between fantasy and reality. And Sendak's books are among the best at relating these things to children. The last paragraph from the article relates it's conclusion better than I ever could:
"And despite the dangers and the terrors that inhabit his books, Sendak said he had never received a letter from a child which said "Go to hell". Instead, "they are always thanking me for opening the door, even if it was only peeking through to show how difficult life could be", he said. "What I do as best I can is out of a deep respect for children, for how difficult their world is. Yes, there have to be places for safe wonderful stories. It's a big world; it's a big profession. But there should still be crazy people like me and Tomi [Ungerer] left."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/sep/19/childrens-books-not-wild-maurice-sendak

Here's also the link to the New York Times article 'On The Phone With Maurice Sendak':

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/16/on-the-phone-with-maurice-sendak/
Bumble Ardy, the story of a young pig who's never had a birthday party and is left unsupervised as he undertakes his own wild masquerade party is Sendak's first picture book since 'Outside Over There' in 1981. Sendak is the winner of numerous prestigious awards for this picturebooks, including the Caldecott Medal for 'Where The Wild Things Are', the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Prize, the Laura Ingalls Wilder award, and the Hans Christian Andersen award. Bumble Ardy will be released on 29 September.

My Favourite Story Video Ever!

2011-09-17T14:30:00.000-07:00

No...this isn't new news, but I do have to share it.
For those of you out there who haven't found Michael Rosen's brilliant website, you have to check it out. So here's the link
http://www.michaelrosen.co.uk/

And... my favourite, favourite story video of all time is 'We're Going On A Bear Hunt.' No gimmicks, no glitz, no animation...just the exceptionally wonderful Michael Rosen.

You can find this, and many others on his website.

October is Children's Book Festival Time!

2011-09-15T01:39:00.000-07:00

Yes, October is Children's Book Festival time all over Ireland. Those good people at CBI have planned an even bigger and better programme of events all over the country! And this year's events will have a real international flavour added to our own homegrown talent, with authors Tony DiTerlizzi (Spiderwick Chronicles and the latest Search for Wondla), Frank Cottrell Boyce (Millions, The Unforgotten Coat and the upcoming Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again), Andy Briggs (the new Tarzan series) and William Hussey (the Witchfinder series) bringing their experiences to events countrywide! So, Children's Books Ireland (and me!) invite and encourage you to join in and start now... whatever your taste, EAT BOOKS!
The Children's Book Festival catalogue will be available from bookshops and libraries shortly, with the list of events and loads of reviews and recommendations (including a few from yours truly)!

http://www.childrensbooksireland.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=328&Itemid=191

Another thing I should mention in regards to the Children's Book Festival is very important, so rather than get it wrong, I'm just going to quote from the CBI site....
"During this year’s festival, CBI will be asking children, parents, teachers, bookseller and librarians to nominate an Irish author or illustrator who they think deserves the title of Ireland’s second Laureate na nÓg. After two years as Laureate, May 2012 will see Siobhán Parkinson hand the title over to her successor. The unique honour will be awarded to an established and dynamic children’s writer or illustrator with an internationally recognized body of work for children."
While we'll all be sad to see Siobhan go, we'll also be equally excited to see who gets to step up and take the reins. I don't envy them. Siobhan Parkinson is a very hard act to follow! Never the less, it's time to put your thinking caps on.
Details are available from: http://www.childrenslaureate.ie/

Roald Dahl Funny Prize 2011

2011-09-13T01:31:00.000-07:00

HAPPY ROALD DAHL DAY one and all! Are you wearing yellow (Dahl's favourite colour)? Have you told a silly joke? Have you shared some chocolate with a friend? (Yes, please!) Have you logged onto the site and started to follow that peach? Loads of funny things to be getting on with....
And one of the funny things that Booktrust have been getting on with is the shortlist for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize. So, here it is:

Aged Six and Under
Bedtime for Monsters by Ed Vere (Puffin)
Cats Ahoy! by Peter Bently, illustrated by Jim Field (Macmillan Children's Books)
First Week at Cow School by Andy Cutbill, illustrated by Russell Ayto (HarperCollins Children's Books)
Limelight Larry by Leigh Hodgkinson (Orchard)
Marshall Armstrong is New to Our School by David Mackintosh (HarperCollins Children's Books)
A Place to Call Home by Alexis Deacon, illustrated by Viviane Schwarz (Walker)

The Funniest Book for Children Aged Seven to 14
Animal Tales by Terry Jones, illustrated by Michael Foreman (Pavilion Children's Books)
The Brilliant World of Tom Gates by Liz Pichon (Scholastic)
The Get Rich Quick Club by Rose Impey (Orchard)
Letters from an Alien Schoolboy by Ros Asquith (Piccadilly Press)
Penny Dreadful is a Magnet for Disaster by Joanna Nadin, illustrated by Jess Mikhail (Usborne)
The Wrong Pong by Steven Butler, illustrated by Chris Fisher (Puffin)

The winners of the two £2,500 prizes (one for each category) will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Unicorn Theatre in London on 8th November. Any favourites of yours on the lists?

Bath Kids Lit Fest Blog... The Big Blog Story

2011-09-09T14:15:00.000-07:00

Bath Kids LitFest has launched the Big Blog Story! This is a really exciting online event that includes 20 collaborators (some are well known authors and bloggers). It's a story that's written in real time, and allows you, the reader to follow the trail as it moves from blog to blog.... an addition to the story will be posted at each stop. The Big Blog Story runs from the 8th of September (that was yesterday!...yikes!) through the 16th October. The first installment is already posted on the Bath Kids LitFest Blog, and all you need to do is click through to the next installment from there. Installments are posted every other day. The schedule is posted on the blog, as well... so you know exactly where you're going and when! You'll find such people as Marcus Sedgewick, John Boyne, Lauren Kate, Annabel Pitcher, Joanna Nadin... and, as you can see, the possibilities with this are endless.
Exciting stuff from the Bath Kids LitFest!
http://bathkidslitfest.wordpress.com/

Mountains to Sea Festival Closes This Sunday

2011-09-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

... and what a closing programme!
It all starts off at 10.30am in the County Hall with Gillian Perdue and The Great pet Shop Escape; a lively workshop of story, drama and dance. At 11 there's a brilliant Animation Workshop by Cartoon Saloon. At 11.30, Oliver Jeffers is Stuck on Books. At 12:30, the Cartoon Saloon is back with part two of the Animation Workshop. 1pm is the time to meet the Queen of Teen, Cathy Cassidy. (Her new installment of the Chocolate Box Girls series 'Marshmallow Skye' is out now and going fast!) At 2pm it's time for Animal Madness with Mavis & Marge, and their exceptional creator, Niamh Sharkey. I hope you've all been preparing in advance for the Mountains to sea Monster Family Book Quiz at 2:30..... And, finally, to wrap up the day (and the children's/family events of this years' festival) it's Derek Landy and Mr. Skulduggery himself Kicking Evil Very Hard In The Face!
So... if you're at lose ends on Sunday, here's the link to the great family/children's events (all curated by author/reviewer/children's books expert and all-round wonderful and lovely Sarah Webb) for the final day. You won't regret a minute of it!
http://www.mountainstosea.ie/childrens-events.html

Baboro 2011!

2011-09-08T07:27:00.000-07:00

While we are still enthralled with all the goings on at the Mountains to Sea Festival at the moment, let's take some time to keep the excitement going. October will bring us an incredible Childrens Books Festival this year from those good people at CBI. But before I launch into that, I can't forget Baboro.
This year's Baboro Festival is now in it's fifteenth year runs from October 16 through the 23rd. It will present a world of wonder, imagination and entertain to the children of Galway through theatre, dance, literature and many other fun events. This year's theme is 'illumination' and the programme will present the work of artists, authors and companies who have 'woven light and shadow into their work.' Authors included will be Malachy Doyle, creator of many wonderful picture books such as Charley is my Darling, When a Zeeder Met a Xyder and The Dancing Tiger; Patricia Forde whose fabulous Lola series saw the addition of the second book, Hedhehogs Do Not Like Heights, as well as Citi Cearc and the new Binji (launched shortly); Alibhe Nic Giolla Bhrighde (Coco na Colgan Cairdiuil) and the reknowned Melvin Burgess. This in addition to so many fantastic performances and exhibits, workshops and readings... October is going to be a busy and wonderful month in Galway!
For the full programme, follow the link below.
http://www.baboro.ie/festival/

Roald Dahl Day is Coming!

2011-09-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

Roald Dahl Day takes place every year on September 13th, Roald Dahl's actual birthday! There are events taking place all over the world, and this year is no different. Here's the link to the website so you can see what's happening. If your school (or your child's school), or your local library isn't planning anything that you know of, why not suggest it to them?
This year, the celebrations are all focused on 'James and the Giant Peach', which is fifty years old! That is one well-preserved peach!!! (I can't decide if this is my favourite Roald Dahl book... or is it 'Danny the Champion of the World'?
How about a reading relay? Or a Roald Dahl party? Or.. one of the best ideas that you can do on your own or as a group... is join in with 'Follow That Peach'!!! Sign up and join in the fun. Celebrate the world's best love children's author.

http://www.roalddahlday.info/

New Books for the Autumn!

2011-08-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

Out now! Quite a few books that we've all been waiting for with bated breath!

Just out today from the outstanding pen of our own Derek Landy... Skulduggery Pleasant: Death Bringer. As the tag line says: Kicking evil hard in the face! (Can't wait to get started on this latest installment and find out what Skulduggery and Valkyrie are up to this time!)

And for those of us that have been looking for something a bit more.... this worldly (and girly and still great!)...
Chocolate Box Girls: Marshmallow Skye by the delightful Teen of Queen: Cathy Cassidy

The second installment of the new series by Judi Curtin is out now as well. As we head into autumn, and back into the school year, it's great to know we can still escape into Eva's Holiday!

And... while there are numerous others (that would make this post far too long and boring), I can't leave without mentioning two or three more of the wonderful, exciting books that have just been released.

The Search for Wondla by Terry DiTerrlizi is available in paperback, just released today!

In just two days time, the new Amy Green book: Love and Other Drama-Rama's by Sarah Webb will be hitting the shelves. I know there are loads of you out there who have been anxiously awaiting this one... because you've been asking about it since last spring!

I think I'm going to have to leave it there for now... but watch this space for more exciting releases.... something new almost everyday!

Adventure Island series by Helen Moss

2011-08-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

Just a quick mention and a few covers of this exciting new adventure/mystery series by Helen Moss for 8 to 11 year olds. Moss has taken the time-honoured Enid Blyton 'Famous Five' formula and given it an extremely successful contemporary twist. Rather than just a re-hash, Moss has made this her own and given us a brilliant, straight-forward mystery series for a whole new generation of readers!

Happy Anniversary To Some Children's Classics!

2011-08-27T14:37:00.000-07:00

Quite a number of children's classic books (both contemporary and not) are taking place this year, and I'd like to take a moment to share some of my favourites with you.....

First of all, let's remember that Roald Dahl Day takes place on September 13th, and this year the focus is on James and the Giant Peach. This gem is now 50 years old! Just as delightful as it was when it first appeared, that is one well preserved Peach!

Another absolute favourite of mine is The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. When it first came out, The Phantom Tollbooth had a reputation for making readers out of non-readers. The marvellous story of Miles, a boy who can't see the point of anything until he comes home to find a mysterious package containing 'one genuine turnpike tollbooth' has been delighting readers young and old for fifty years now! In October, there will be a commemorative edition released, which will include a preface by Juster, essays by various authors (including Philip Pullman and Suzanne Collins) and an essay by Maurice Sendak that was written for the books' thirty-fifth anniversary.

A Wrinkle In Time by Madeline L'Engle is also turning fifty. Currently, this wonderful story of time travel has 10 million copies in print in the US. In January, Macmillan Children's Publishing will be releasing a fiftieth anniversary commemorative edition which will include "include an introduction by Katherine Paterson; L'Engle's Newbery acceptance speech; never-before-published photos; and an afterword by L'Engle's granddaughter, Charlotte Jones Voiklis."

And... just out now... this absolutely gorgeous centenary edition of The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. One hundred years of one of the most unique books of all time!

Happy Anniversary to these, some of my favourite books ever... and quite a few more... Here's an article from PublishersWeekly to tell you more about them.
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/48346-celebrating-a-flock-of-anniversaries.html?page=1

Children's Books by Local Authors

2011-08-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

Just a few of the great children's books by local authors that are available in Dubray Books, Galway. I really love having so many fabulous children's authors in the area... Patricia Forde, Dolores Keaveney, Nicola Heanue and... of course, The Specs... are the authors I've chosen to feature this time 'round. But there are many, many more......

Hugo Film Trailer

2011-08-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

The official film trailer for HUGO is out now, and if it's anything to go by, this film is going to be exceptional! Based on the extraordinarily beautiful book 'The Invention of Hugo Cabret' by Brian Selznick, this is the story of a boy, Hugo, who lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station. And, the film has an unbelievable cast and is directed by Martin Scorsese!Just have a look....
and if you haven't read the book, yet, you're in for a treat beyond your wildest dreams.

Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent

2011-08-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

Arthur Quinn and the World Serpent is a brilliant new book, just out now, by Alan Early, published by Mercier Press. And, having read the proof, I have been waiting for this book..... it is brilliant! Fast-paced, thrilling; it begins the Father of Lies Chronicles in which something wicked has awoken under the streets of Dublin. And it's just Arthur Quinn's luck, that just when he moves to the city, it notices him. Combining the present day with the ancient Norse gods.... this book is just wonderful!
The trailer is a small teaser to wet your appetite, and you'll find more trailers associated with it, if you're wanting a bit more. But seriously, run out and get this book NOW! You won't regret it.

(Yes, I know...I'm just a wee bit enthusiastic about it.)

Gordon Goes To Charlie Byrnes

2011-08-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

A quick mention for this charming book... Gordon Goes To Greenieland by Morag Kelly. Morag will be reading from her new 'Gordon...' story at Charlie Byrnes Bookshop (The Cornstore, Galway) on Saturday, August 20 at 11am.
For those of you who don't know yet... Gordon Goes To Greenieland is a 100% Irish-made book (and website!). Gordon Goes To Greenieland combines a sensitive story about Gordon and his beloved Grandad, who has now reached the autumn of his life, and an important ecological message, as Gordon wants to keep Grandad's garden growing as a tribute to him. All of this without overwhelming or beating either message home.
Morag's reading will be followed by Charlie Byrnes regular storytime on Saturday mornings.
http://www.charliebyrne.com/news.php?ID=102

http://www.greenieland.ie/

Twilight Robbery.... as part of the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize Club

2011-08-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

The latest article from the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize Book Club involves commentary on the latest book from one of my favourite authors, Frances Hardinge. Twilight Robbery follows the further adventures of Mosca Mye and Eponymous Clent as the travel (well... run for their freedom and lives) through the Fractured Realm. I've left my (brief) thoughts on both Twilight Robbery and Fly By Night to be found on the 'What ARE You Reading' page of this blog. But here's the link to the Guardian article.. there's lots of ways for you to get involved with the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize Club, so check it out! And, Frances Hardinge is asking you to review her book! (second link).
What I would say is, you simply have to read both of these books. They are adventure stories, (alternative) historical fiction, fantasy... books involving issues such as friendship, loyalty, belonging... with a bit of politics and revolution involved. And basically, especially because they are so well-written with brilliantly described characters and a beautifully imagined world, they are cracking reads. Fly By Night remains one of my all-time favourites.... what do you think?
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2011/aug/12/fiction-prize-book-club-frances-hardinge
Follow this link to watch Frances Hardinge tell you why you should review her book.....
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/video/2011/aug/12/francis-hardinge-twilight-robbery-video

Lost Dr. Seuss Found!!!!

2011-08-12T13:58:00.000-07:00

A collection of lost Dr. Seuss stories has been found and will be published and out in the shops on the 29th September. The Bippolo Seed and other lost stories are a collection of stories originally published in Redbook magazine in 1950 ad 1951. Charles D. Cohen, a noted Seussian scholar and collected, relocated the stories and the new book is his concept. He also wrote an introduction, correcting many of the misconceived notions that have surrounded the worlds created by Dr. Seuss.
Any huge fan of the Cat In The Hat, the Grinch and (my personal favourite) The Lorax, will be thrilled to add these stories to their own collections at long last.... and yet another generation of young children can grow up with even more Seuss than there was before!
I'm adding the link to the Publishers Weekly article, which tells all......
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/48330-random-house-to-publish-lost-dr-seuss-stories.html?utm_source=Publishers+Weekly%27s+Children%27s+Bookshelf&utm_campaign=da00a04b67-UA-15906914-1&utm_medium=email

August Young Readers Recommend

2011-08-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

If you check out the 'Our Young Reader's Recommend' page, you'll find eight reviews from the young reviewers from Dubray Books, Galway. These kids desire a big round of applause for their tireless interest and evaluation of new books for people their age. Their enthusiasm is inspiring. And their reviews are always spot on. If you really want to know which books children are going to love, ask a kid.

Bath Kid's Lit Fest Blog!

2011-08-10T06:35:00.000-07:00

Here's the link for all the latest news in the run up to the Bath Children's Literature Festival. The Bath Kid's Lit Fest Blog keeps you up to date, with entries from loads of your favourite children's author's, and what's going on in their lives and books as they prepare to make their way to the festival, which takes place 23rd September to the 2nd of October! It really is a can't miss event!
The latest entry on the blog is from Jeremy Strong, letting you know what's been going on with Cartoon Kid... and other exciting happenings. (Also, check out the early entry regarding Christopher Paolini... he will be there!!!)
http://bathkidslitfest.wordpress.com/

Summer Camps at Brigit's Garden

2011-08-08T11:28:00.000-07:00

Fuschis Swings at Brigit's Garden-Tess Hughes

For those of you in the Galway area, there's just enough time to get involved in a summer camp at Brigit's Garden. These summer camps offer the perfect opportunity to get the kids out of the house and into the outdoors for an absolutely marvellous nature experience. With summer winding down, if the kids are at loose ends with nothing to do, I can whole-heartedly recommend these. After having this experience, every child who has ever reported back to me has had nothing but glowing reports and renewed enthusiasm for nature and the environment , along with a greater hunger for knowledge and learning about the world we live in.
And if you aren't in time to get into one of the summer camps, don't forget about Brigit's Garden. It's brilliant for the whole family all year long and a great resource, right on our doorstep.
http://www.brigitsgarden.ie/index.php?page=summer-camps

Kids, Peer Pressure and Age Appropriate Books

2011-08-05T02:15:00.000-07:00

This article appeared in the Huffington Post (written by Pamela Dodson, a teacher and children's librarian)
and was passed on to me by a colleague who well understands my frustrations, along with the frustrations of many parents, teachers, librarians... the world in general, when it comes to children and age appropriate books. It makes some very fine points and takes a very practical view of the dilemma. As we've all heard 'but everybody's reading it', I thought I'd pass the link on to you, along with a couple of quotes.

"Today, parents of children in grades 3-5 complain of being harassed by their children to allow them to read books that were written for teens. Titles like Twilight, Hunger Games, and the later Harry Potter novels. These books were written for young adults who have the age and experiences to understand more mature themes and relationships and to process them accordingly. They were never intended for elementary school children."

"Most parents know very little about teen books and acquiesce to the constant whiny entreaties of their child, agreeing to let them read the book. Other parents feel these books are a bit too mature for their child, but think if "everyone is reading it," it must be OK. There are also parents who stand their ground, but the child may well borrow a friend's copy and read it in secret, or download it onto an electronic device. After all, giving in to peer pressure, and finding a way around parents to do it, is nothing new for kids."
And this quote, which provides an opportunity, not only to solve the reading dilemma, but creates a stronger parent/child bond.
"If your child is determined to read a "hot" title that deals with more mature themes, you might want to strike a bargain and read it together. You could share one book reading it together, or form a book club where you each have a copy and read a portion, then talk about it."
By actually sitting down and reading with your children, especially as they grow that bit older, it let's them know that you are still interested in what's going on in their lives, you are interested in them and you have time for them. (I suggest setting this down firmly before they become teenagers!)
And here's the link for the article....
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/pamela-dodson/books-peer-pressure_b_909145.html?ir=Books

Call For Young Reviewers

2011-08-05T01:42:00.000-07:00

As we approach the end of summer, I've been reorganising the Young Readers Recommend file at work. All of these guys do a fantastic job reading and reviewing books and I consider their input invaluable. I've always thought, if you want to know which children's books are actually really great reads, and brilliant for children...if you want a real opinion, ask a child.
As I said, I've been going through the files, and what I've found (sadly) is that the vast majority of the young reviewers are, well, growing up. So, it's time for a new group of reviewers to step in.
So, here's my call.... if you are between the ages of 9 and 13 years (or know someone who is), if you are a real bookworm (or know someone who is) and if you would like to be part of the 'Our Young Readers Recommend' team, here's what to do.....
1) Contact Mary (that's me!) at Dubray Books, 4 Shop Street in Galway.
2) Leave your name, date of birth, contact telephone number
SIMPLE!
And here's the procedure for reviews....
Chose a book from the stack you are shown to review (myself or one of my colleagues will be happy to show you the books). We will make note of the book on your file.
Take the book home and give it a good read.
Write a brief review. Include a bit of the storyline (without giving away any spoilers!) and not simply whether you liked the book or not, but why... what was good about it, what did you think needed improvement, etc.
You can rate the book in marks out of 10, or by giving it however many stars you think it deserves. Th review needn't be long, about a paragraph. And don't be afraid to say that you didn't like a book you've reviewed... that information is just as valuable as singing it's praises. You can take up to a month. Then return the book, along with the review..... and chose another one!
I try to print up the 'Our Young Readers Recommend' newsletter every month or (sometimes) two, but this depends on how many reviews I have to print.
So drop in any time and join the team! And all you parents, teachers and librarians out there, pass the word around to those children you think would be interested. This is the kids opportunity to have their say about what is good and not good in the world of children's literature!

Bookworms Invade Airfield!

2011-08-02T15:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right! On the 14th of August, Children's Books Ireland have gotten together with Airfield (with support from the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council's Arts Office) to create a brilliant event for young readers to really get excited about. Debby Thomas (Dead Hairy), Chris Judge (The Lonely Beast), author/illustrator Adrienne Geoghegan, a load of events and activities, storytelling... much, much more... will all be present to give us bookworms an unforgettable day!
http://www.youtharts.ie/node/417
http://www.childrensbooksireland.ie/

Bath Children's Literature Festival

2011-08-02T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Bath Festival of Children's Literature will run from September 24 through to October 2nd this year. This is one of the most incredible celebrations of children's literature anywhere in the world.
This year will see such talents as Jeremy Strong, Roddy Doyle (!), Cressida Cowell, Simon Scarrow, Alex Scheffler... the list is endless! And, just announced with much excitement, Christopher Paolini will be appearing at the BathKidsLitFest on Saturday, 30th September! The fourth book in the Inheritance cycle (Eragon, etc.) will be launched on the 8th of November. (And we have been waiting quite a while, so the excitement is building!)
If you can make a jaunt over to Bath (still, in my humble opinion, the most beautiful city in the world!) to enjoy the sights and the BathKidsLitFest, well, you've simply got to go!
http://www.bathkidslitfest.org.uk/

Don't forget.... Kite Making Competition!

2011-08-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

I want to take a quick moment to remind everyone about Art and Hobby's (Corbett Court/Eyre Square Shopping Centre) Kite Making competition! The closing date is 28th August. Art and Hobby wants to see to it that the winner receive their prize before the start of school. The kite can be made of any materials (or combination of materials). It doesn't need to be able to fly, and can be any design you want!
Entries are limited to children up to age 13 years. The kites will be displayed in the shop.
You can talk to the good people in Art and Hobby, Corbett Court for any clarification of details. And if you're on Facebook, check out Art and Hobby's page!
Good luck to you all!!!!

Mountains to Sea Festival

2011-08-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to August. I know we're all frantically trying to make the most of this last month of summer. Getting away while we can... making sure everybody has what they need for the start of school in September, cramming as much holiday in to see us through the upcoming autumn.
But I thought I'd start by giving you all a heads up on the upcoming Mountains to Sea Festival, which begins September 1st.
The Mountains to Sea Festival is a fantastic opportunity for us to get involved in all the current literary treats available. And, of course the young people among us are never left out. This year's programme for the family is fantastic! There's the Picture Book Picnic and an Audience with Darren Shan, that master of horror, himself. The Monster Book Lunch will return with Cathy Cassidy, the reigning Queen of Teen, Judi Curtin, Sarah Webb, Conor Kostick, John Newman... and lots more authors. There's the Monster Book Quiz. And Mr. Skulduggery himself, the amazing and amusing Derek Landy will be reading and signing books. (The new Skulduggery Pleasant installment is out on 1st September!) There's far too much for me to list here. So here's the link. Check it out for yourselves, and be sure to book your tickets NOW!
http://www.mountainstosea.ie/images/M2SeaFamilyProgramme.pdf

'Spirit of the Titanic' Inspiration Finally Gets Headstone

2011-07-29T05:14:00.000-07:00

The story of the 15 year old boy who plunged to his death while working on the Titanic is a touching one. So much so, that Nicola Pierce modelled her lead character in 'Spirit of the Titanic' after him. Re-imagining his life (and death) and subsequent haunting of the most famous ship in the world on it's maiden and final voyage, Pierce wrote a Titanic novel with a unique twist making it a fascinating and compelling read.
Now, just in from the BBC News, it seems that the real life Samuel Stone, who has been buried in an unmarked grave all these years since plunging to his death in 1910, is finally going to be honoured with a headstone. The headstone will be unveiled in Belfast Cemetery on Saturday as part of the Feile an Phobail festival.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-14334383

(If you like, you can find my thoughts on 'Spirit of the Titanic' on the 'What ARE You Reading' page. I wonderful read!)

Irish Times Summer Reads

2011-07-23T15:21:00.000-07:00

Today's Irish Times has a brilliant review article filled with suggested summer reads for children. Anna Carey (journalist and author of the highly entertaining 'The Real Rebecca'... a great read for young adults in and of itself) covers some of the newest offerings in picturebooks. These include such beauties as: The Wheels on the Bus, illustrated by Britta Teckentrup through to a more traditionally illustrated No One But You (illustrated the master PJ Lynch) by Douglas Wood. And one of my favourites is Ladder To The Moon by Maya Soetoro-Ng. It has been called a bit twee by some, but I think the storyline and the illustrations are simply beautiful. Then again, I am a grandmother.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/weekend/2011/0723/1224301169307.html

Then Mary Shine Thompson takes us on a quick spin through Hell and back through other fantasy realms with her suggestions for 10-12 year olds (and I might add, for some of us a good bit older.) Beginning with John Connolly's newest, brilliant, fast-paced Hell's Bells (if you haven't read it yet, do so immediately!), journeying through The Cryptid Files: Mexican Devil by Jean Flitcroft, The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens, and Warlock by Michael Scott.... this seasons fantasy books are indeed outstanding!
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/weekend/2011/0723/1224301168836.html

Guardian Reviews for New Bedtime Picturebooks

2011-07-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

From the Guardian, here are a few reviews of new picturebooks, just perfect for bedtime reading. Included are: The World Champion of Staying Awake by Sean Taylor/Jimmy Liao, Creepy Monsters, Sleepy Monsters by Jane Yolen/Kelly Murphy (brilliant!), Dear Fairy Godmother by Michael Rosen/Nick Sharatt..... all worthy contenders for best bedtime story of the summer.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/jul/21/childrens-picture-books-review-kellaway?INTCMP=SRCH

Children's Book Festival 2011

2011-07-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

Children's Books Ireland has announced the illustrator for this year's Book Festival poster and catalogue. And it is..... (drum roll inserted here).... the wonderful Niamh Sharkey!!!!
During the month of October, the entire country will be snacking on all kinds of tidbits from children's literature. There's a brilliant catalogue full of reviews and recommendations of children's books for all ages. Libraries, bookshops and schools... and other venues across Ireland will be loaded with events to bring the joy of books to children.

Check out the link below for more sneaky bits of information.
http://www.childrensbooksireland.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=328&Itemid=191
(p.s. In Galway, October is also time for the Baboro Children's Festival! Great excitement! Here's the link to watch for upcoming information.) http://www.baboro.ie/

Kite Making Competition

2011-07-20T03:47:00.000-07:00

From those good people at Art and Hobby in the Corbett Court Shopping Centre, Williamsgate Street, Galway... a great summer competition for the kids ( anyone age up to 12/13 yrs.)... A KITE MAKING COMPETITION!!!!
From their Facebook page:

"Design Your Own Kite Competition!

We have an exciting new competition starting today in store - design you own Kite! It doesn't have to be able to fly and can be any size and shape. Check out our window display to see Jenny and Michaela's creation! The more creative the better and entries will be displayed in store!"

The closing date for the Create A Kite competition is the 28th of August. Entries will be displayed in the shop. The kites can be made from anything... any material or combination of materials, just a design of your own creation. They needn't be able to fly. As I said earlier, the competition is open to anyone up to age 12 or 13 years (which is really sad for me, as I am a huge fan of kites, but am much older than 13.)

Dinosaurs Are Walking About!

2011-07-20T03:35:00.000-07:00

Anyone out and about today and tomorrow in Galway... whether you're visiting for the Arts Festival or are working/shopping/enjoying the day.... keep your eyes open! There are dinosaurs! Especially around 1pm and 4pm in town along Shop Street from Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch, or out at the Galway Shopping Centre (4pm) on the Headford Road......
http://www.galwayartsfestival.ie/programme.php?c=11&ct=street&id=11&t=dinosaur-petting-zoo-

From Inis Magazine... Books Are For Life...

2011-07-20T03:29:00.000-07:00

In this marvelous interview from Keith Gray in Inis Magazine, the obvious is pointed out.... books are for life, not just for homework. Something we need to consider now in mid-summer, as we are preparing our children for going back to school. A very important consideration, especially when we are getting so much negative information on the state of support for our libraries, our bookshops and with the ever-growing push towards digital media for children's books. Kids need books.. you know, paper and print.
And, again, I ask everyone to give some thoughts towards an incentive here to give every school age child a public library card. This would be a fantastic gift towards literacy, imagination and education. Any thoughts?
http://www.inismagazine.ie/features/entry/books-are-for-life-not-just-for-homework-Keith-Gray-Interview

From Bookseller... Summer Reading Scheme Critical for Children's Literacy

2011-07-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

This is from today's Bookseller. Citing the UK's Summer Reading Challenge as critical for children's literacy development, Miranda McKearney director of the Reading Agency said:
"Public libraries' ability to make reading fun isn't just a luxury we can no longer afford, it is critical work. The Summer Reading Challenge has now become so widespread that it can act as a pivot for schools and libraries to develop joint strategies to promote literacy. We are calling for every head teacher to weave it into the school improvement plan and to ensure every primary school is a member of their local library."
Michael Rosen, who is a patron of the Summer Reading Challenge, wants to see every child attending school to be issued with a library card. What a brilliant idea! I would like to see that happen here in Ireland, as well. What about you? Any ideas how we could get this started?
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/summer-reading-scheme-critical-childrens-literacy.html

More Potter Excitement... origami golden snitch

2011-07-17T04:19:00.000-07:00

Well... it all ends here, so they say. But just to extend your Harry Potter excitement, how about origami golden snitches. I was put on to this site (activity village) yesterday by a wonderful colleague (thanks, Oisin!) who promptly made me a golden snitch. Really easy once you get the hang of it, and who doesn't want to catch a golden snitch? Just follow the link for the download directions!
http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/origami_golden_snitch.htm