Children's Books Ireland: The best of young people's bravery in our July selections
Sometimes a little reading can inspire the biggest of bravery. Pic: iStock.
Not only are we bringing you the very best new releases for July this month, we’re also sharing tales of bravery in many forms.
That means stories of bravery on serious topics, such as embracing difference, owning your truth, and coming to terms with chronic illness, but also more light-hearted tales of defeating vampiric sheep, the popular kids and even being brave enough to make your own wishes come true.
We hope this month’s recommendations entertain, engage, and perhaps even give you courage, in whatever form you might need.
(Little Tiger Press)
Little Voices is a fantastic board book series from Little Tiger Press, aimed at helping our youngest readers conquer big emotions.
is an encouraging tale of empowerment seeking to help little ones chase their dreams, dare to try new things and stand up for themselves. With joyful and inclusive illustrations, this is a most encouraging tale. (0–3)
(Golden Key Publishing)
Whinging and whining, Claus Clamhsánaí is sure to appear whenever children get grumpy or chaos occurs.
This annoying dragon deliberately seeks to stretch mammy’s patience and cause trouble at every turn! Sure to elicit a relatable giggle from parents and children alike, some readers may be familiar with the English language version of this story, Gringer the Whinger, making this Irish language translation a great way to improve your confidence when reading as Gaeilge. (4-plus)
(Scholastic Books)
Although Josie’s family do not look alike, theirs is a home filled with love.
It is frustrating then, that everywhere Josie goes people constantly ask ‘is that your mama?’.
Luckily, Josie’s parents have a great idea to help her feel proud of her family and stop worrying about what other people think.
Inspired by the author’s own experience of raising a mixed-race family, this is a timely reminder that you don’t have to look alike to be family.
(Little Island Books and Skein Press)
A folktale originating from the oral tradition of the Irish Traveller community, this exquisitely illustrated story has many layers of understanding to it.
Two slug brothers wander the land at their ease, but when they are mocked by an old crow, a divide forms between them, with one becoming a snail and the other remaining a slug.
Beautifully told, this joint venture from Little Island and Skein Press aims to increase diversity in children’s books and will also be available as Gaeilge in September. (5-plus)
(Graffeg)
Lilly and her assistance dog Myles are visiting Grandma for the summer when they set out to explore the caves on the nearby beach.
Lilly is autistic, and throughout the book we learn how she processes the world sensorily with Myles by her side.
A gentle story that may resonate for autistic, while also creating empathy and awareness on supporting neurodivergent children for their peers. (5-plus)
(Frances Lincoln Books)
The Thing that Lives at number 52 likes to drink gravy, has a lovely garden and is often lonely.
Befriended by a little girl and her mum, they set about brightening the Thing’s days and helping it meet other Things in order to feel less alone.
A picturebook that will envelope you in its stunning illustrations and capture your heart whole. (5-plus)
(Piccadilly Press)
The first in an action-packed new series, super villain King Crab takes over the S4 secret agent headquarters with plans to melt the polar ice caps and build a gigantic water park.
Although often in trouble for his unconventional, spontaneous methods, Agent 9 and trusty sidekick Fin must figure out a way to put King Crab’s plans on ice.
An engaging story for fans of Bunny vs. Monkey or readers trying graphic novels for the first time. (7-plus)
(Little Tiger)
The stories of the Nkara, ancient magical creatures that roam the continent of Africa, have always been favourites of Yomi and Kayode.
However, the get more than they bargain for on a trip to The Gambia with their uncle Olu, when they witness a Beast Hunter kidnap Ninki Nanka, the Dragon King.
Featuring a brave sibling duo, this new series incorporating African myths, legends and beastly creatures will be a dream for fantasy and adventure lovers. (8+)
(Barrington Stoke)
With the threat of expulsion looming, Lacey is forced to endure boring lunchtime music lessons where she discovers a hidden talent for playing piano.
Unable to practice at home, Lacey uses the piano at the train station to practice her own compositions.
However, with the council’s plans to remove the piano and her family unsupportive of her music, Lacey must learn to stand up for herself in many ways. A dyslexia-friendly read that hits all the right notes. (9-plus)
(Uclan Publishing)
Shining a spotlight on artforms such as music, writing, acting, comedy, dance and poetry, this non-fiction book does exactly what it says on the tin — showing us that art truly is everywhere!
Encouraging readers to get creative in whatever way appeals to them, the author’s reminders that there is no right or wrong way to make art lift the fear of failure and open the reader up to a world of exploration instead. (11-plus)
(Faber & Faber)
What happens when the diagnosis of a debilitating medical condition ends your career as a dancer?
For Ven, her restrictive movement means she must sing if she can’t dance. Making it her mission to whip her singing group of misfits into shape for their music exam, Ven is determined not to be distracted by anything, least of all the very cute new boy in her class…
This is not simply a story of living with chronic pain and illness, but about taking your life and making it the best it can possibly be. (16-plus)
(Electric Monkey)
When Annie and Kerry finally receive an invite to party with Les Populaires, they don’t expect to end the night stumbling across a dead body that appears to have been murdered using a menstrual cup!
There is a killer on the loose using period products as their chosen weapon.
With the police refusing to take the crimes seriously, it’s up to Annie and Kerry to solve the riddle of the Menstrual Murderer.
Outrageous, hilarious, brimming with feminism and strictly for older teens only, this is a truly unique murder-mystery, with Weston a worthy voice to follow Queen of comedy Louise Rennison. (17-plus)
- Ruth Concannon is the Publications Officer for Children’s Books Ireland, the national charity and arts organisation that champions every child’s right to develop a love of reading.
- Their mission is to inspire a love of reading in children and young people in Ireland, to share their expertise and enthusiasm with the adults who guide and influence them, to champion every child’s right to excellent books and live literature events and support the artists who make that goal possible across the island of Ireland.
- See www.childrensbooksireland.ie for more.
