Children's Books Ireland Recommendations
Looking for the next book to keep your children entertained? Look no further than these great award-winning titles. There’s lots to choose from for all young readers, everything from adventures with space and science, robots and mystery not to mention spiders and skunks. Have a read, and let your imagination roam free!
1. Shooting for the Stars: My Journey to Become Ireland's First Astronaut
Norah Patten illustrated by Jennifer Farley
The O'Brien Press 2019 (HBK) 44PP ISBN 9781788491006
Ballina-born Dr Norah Patten is an aeronautical engineer and dedicated astronaut candidate. Shooting for the Stars follows her fascinating path to become Ireland’s first astronaut and offers plenty of fun and interesting facts along the way. Be inspired by Norah’s early life, aspirations, education and ongoing training, while also learning lots about astronomy, astronaut training, space travel and life in space. There are facts, anecdotes and advice, as well as photographs and gorgeous and informative illustrations by Jennifer Farley, who joined us in the fun of our Re-ImagineNation campaign during the summer. (Age 5–8)
2. Scúnc agus Smúirín
Muireann Ní Chíobháin maisithe ag Paddy Donnelly
Futa Fata 2019 (CRUA) 32LCH ISBN 9781910945476
Scéal céadfaíoch atá i Scúnc agus Smúirín a léiríonn an cion atá ag an bpríomhcharachtar ar bholadh speisialta an teidí is ansa leis. Tugann an boladh sólás agus compord dó ach tar éis scathaimh sa mheaisn níocháin, tá an boladh athraithe ó bhonn! Ar aghaidh le Scúnc ag iarraidh teacht ar fhoinse bholadh uathúil Smúirín. Tá an-mhioneolas sna léaráidí go háirithe ar aghaidheanna na gcarachtar nuair a dhéanann siad iontas den bholadh bréan. Leagann an úsáid de chló difriúil béim ar raidhse mothúchán an phríomhcharachtair. (Aois 5–8)
3. Boot: Small Robot Big Adventure
Shane Hegarty illustrated by Ben Mantle
Hodder Children's Books (PBK) 240PP ISBN 9781444949360
A small robot called Boot awakens in a scrapyard with no idea how he got there. He only has a few memories: he knows Beth is his owner and he was loved and this gives him the courage to try and find his way home. This book has some great humour and excitement. It’s a beautiful story accompanied throughout by impressive illustrations that together capture your heart. This is the first in a brilliant series. (Age 5–8)
4.The Star-Spun Web
Sinead O'Hart illustrated by Sara Mulvanny
Stripes Publishing (PBK) 384PP ISBN 9781788950220
This is an excellent tale of mystery and adventure by Irish author Sinead O’Hart. Orphaned Tess de Souza is removed from Ackerbee’s Home for Lost Foundlings by Mr Cleat – but who is he, and what does he know about her past? O’Hart’s storytelling weaves an enchantment from the very first page with a thrilling plot, an outstanding heroine and, of course, Violet, the pet tarantula. Perfect for fans of mystery and magic. (Age 9–11)
5. The Great Irish Science Book
Luke O'Neill illustrated by Linda Fährlin
Gill Books 2019 (HBK) 96PP ISBN 9780717185580
The Great Irish Science Book is a must-read for any young scientist in Ireland, packed full of interesting things to learn and do for anyone aged 8–12. It is designed to create budding scientists and incite wonder in any young reader. The book explains various topics using experiments, Linda Fährlin’s bright illustrations and jokes to keep the reader engaged. Best of all, Luke O’Neill highlights Irish connections to these topics and tells us about famous Irish scientists and the discoveries they made. (Age 8–12)
6. The Deepest Breath
Meg Grehan
Little Island Books (PBK) 180PP ISBN 9781912417186
Curious eleven-year-old Stevie is enamoured with the sea and spends much of her time engrossed in reading or delighting in her mother’s company. When she begins to develop unfamiliar feelings for classmate Chloe, Stevie finds herself in a crisis, unsure of her identity and even her cherished relationship with her mother. Stevie’s voice is authentic and endearing, and her relationships are tender. A beautiful verse novel for children and younger teenagers. (Age 10+)
So many excellent books to choose from! Check out your local library or bookshop to find these, and many more. Children’s Books Ireland have more reading lists on their website – you can find books on adventure, mystery, funny books, sport and more to find the perfect read for you or the young reader in your life.
And don’t forget to share your reading recommendations with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter,– using #ReadersWanted.