More than ever, we believe it is essential we shop local and buy Irish where possible this year. It's been a tough year for the economy and more importantly for small businesses, including some of the many fabulous writers we house here in Ireland.
Due to the pandemic, they have missed out on essential book launches and the publicity opportunities it creates with local press, communities and of course our bookshops. So today we have compiled a list of some of our favourite latest releases, all of which are books for children by Irish authors that we believe should be on your Christmas booklist.
Girls Play Too by Jacqui Hurley (ages 8+)
This book is a celebration of Ireland's female sporting stars that have been breaking barriers and overcoming enormous challenges. An inspiring read for the next generation of sportswomen featuring twenty-five Irish athletes, including Katie Taylor. It teaches young girls never to give up on their dreams and always to try their best.
The Great BIG Irish Annual 2021 (ages 6+)
A must-have this Christmas that looks back on the extraordinary year that was 2020, from coronavirus to viral jokes and even homeschooling. The Great BIG Irish Annual is bursting with fascinating facts, trivia, quizzes and games. It covers climate change, has a Toy Show wishlist, and features an exclusive interview with super scientist Luke O'Neill.
Geansaí Ottó by Sadhbh Devlin (ages 3+)
This beautiful illustrated Irish language book is another charming tale in the children's books series by Sadhbh Devlin. It tells the tale of a Mamó who can't stop knitting for her uber-cool grandson. However, Ottó's upmarket sense of fashion does not include wearing homemade jumpers. Who knows what will happen... Devlin also wrote the heartwarming Beag Bídeach.
The Dead Zoo by Peter Donnelly (ages 3+)
This book is an instant classic from the creator of the multi-award-winning President picture book series. The story brings us around the much-loved museum as a comical chase ensues between Mr Gray, a very serious man in charge of the Dublin museum filled with stuffed animals and a real live mouse.
The Chill Skill by Niall Breslin (ages 3+)
Like the other two children's books, Bressies's The Chill Skill is set to equip children with another useful mindfulness technique. This time around the colourful picture book help children manage anger when things don't go their way. It will be published later this month.
The Secret Scientist by Jason Byrne (ages 8+)
The popular Irish comedian brings us on another hilarious journey with Onion and crew. This time around, they stumble upon a very old Russian Scientist whose wacky experiments wreak havoc in their town. This witty book is now the third accidental adventure for Onion O'Brien and his gang, better known as the Five O's.
