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Irish Examiner
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Tots to Teens: Cork on a Fork Festival is a recipe for a good time
Have fun with food in Cork City from Wednesday, August 13, to Sunday, August 17. That's when Cork on a Fork Fest will take place, and its programme of more than 100 events and activities promises to serve up something for all ages. The hands-on cooking classes will teach children how to make pizza, pasta, and sweet treats, like carrot cake balls, apple doughnuts, and smoothies. Little ones will get their faces painted and get to try new foods at the Meet the Makers event hosted by local food producers. Elizabeth Fort will be the setting for outdoor family games and all sorts of street food. There will be a garden party in Knocknaheeny Community Gardens, a honey-themed picnic in the Urban Pantry, culinary walking tours, and free cookery demonstrations, live music, family-friendly games, and a food market on Emmet Pl. That's just a taster of what you can expect. Visit or follow @corkonaforkfest on social media for the full line-up. Baby keepsakes Packing away clothes that no longer fit your growing baby can pull at the heartstrings. It can be sad to think they will never again be so little. Vicky Crawford, from Leitrim, knows this particular heartbreak. It's what inspired her to set up and create her unique memory bears. There are personalised bears that are made to order from a carefully chosen selection of baby clothes that parents send to Crawford. She cuts those clothes, sews them together, and stuffs them until she has a colourful and characterful bear. Then, she sews on eyes, noses and smiles, attaches ribbons and ties, and embroiders a name and date of birth on to the sole of one of the bear's feet. She even attaches a patch pocket for future visits from the Tooth Fairy. The bears cost €110 and can be ordered directly from Mystery story Solve It! The Case of the Missing Irish Crown Jewels, the latest book by the Navan children's writer and primary school teacher Kieran Fanning If your child fancies themselves as an amateur sleuth, treat them to Solve It! The Case of the Missing Irish Crown Jewels. This is the latest book by the Navan children's writer and primary school teacher Kieran Fanning, and it features Detective O'Malley and his sidekick, a seagull called Twist. O'Malley and Twist are trying to figure out who stole the Irish crown jewels from Dublin Castle. But they need help. All of the suspects who were filmed fleeing the scene on CCTV have now scattered across Ireland. Readers must assist the detectives in uncovering clues and solving puzzles so they can capture the crafty crook. The book is published by Gill Books and costs €11.99. High expectations Djeco Sealife height chart Keep track of your children's growth spurts with this colourful Djeco Sealife height chart. This numbered chart allows you to start when they are mere babies, measuring from 60cm tall, and continuing to when they are 1.4m-high teenagers. It comes with stickers on which you can write children's names, dates and ages, and makes for a gorgeous gift or decorative item to hang in a child's bedroom or playroom. It also comes with a pretty box to store it as a keepsake once the children are grown up. It costs €19.95 and is available from a traditional wooden toy and children's gift store run by mother of three Fiona Ryan in Ennis. Medical advice Looking for no-nonsense, evidence-based information about child development, health, and safety? That's exactly what you will find on the Instagram account of Cork paediatrician and mother of two Dr Niamh Lynch. At @dr_niamh_lynch, she posts on topics such as the recent listeria outbreak in Ireland, sun safety, febrile convulsions, choking hazards, and how to avoid them, eczema and developmental milestones. Her tone is calm, and she presents information in a way that is reassuring and easy to understand.
Irish Examiner
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Children's books review: Fresh tales well worth racing off to the bookstore to grab
Rowan Tree Stables: Horse Show Surprise by Nina Carberry, illustrated by Nuno Alexandre Vieira (Gill Books, €13) What makes a good story isn't a celebrity name on the cover, but the words within. As it happens though, the words within the latest children's books from two of Ireland's best-known female ex-jockeys are well worth a flutter. Does big name recognition help ensure that these books are chosen by young readers in shops, libraries, or online? It is certainly no handicap in the case of novice writers Nina Carberry and Rachael Blackmore, though the flip side is that the works of fiction bearing their famous names may come under greater critical scrutiny that those of other authors. Certainly in the case of Carberry, who has transformed her career from Irish Grand National and Cheltenham-winning jockey via Dancing with the Stars and Ireland's Fittest Family to MEP for the Midlands North West constituency, the bar is set high in terms of expectation, and her co-authored series of children's books continues to deliver engaging pony tales with an Irish twist. Friendship is as central to the Rowan Tree Stables stories as the ponies themselves, but in this latest instalment, the bonds between pals Grace and Aaron are tested when Aaron is ruled out of Dublin Horse Show. Grace has qualified for Ireland's biggest horse riding event of the year but appendicitis means Aaron fails to get through. Can he overcome his disappointment at not competing himself and travel to Dublin as groom for his best friend on the big day? While Aaron weighs feelings of loyalty and dejection, Grace faces further hurdles on her journey to the RDS, with an injury scare and an emergency at the stables throwing her plans off course. There's tacking up and mucking out, hoof picking and horsey snobbery galore to satisfy pony lovers aged eight plus, with Grace's riding exploits pitched perfectly between the realistic and the aspirational, making her a credible female role model. Granny National by Rachael Blackmore with Rachel Pierce and illustrated by Tom Snape (Puffin, €15) Rachael Blackmore's debut children's novel, following hot on the heels of her recent retirement from a stellar racing career that saw her become the first woman to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National, sensibly states on its cover that the work is a collaborative effort. The childhood memories that form the backdrop to the cleverly-titled Granny National, however, are all Blackmore's — drawn from her upbringing in Co Tipperary. There's a warm familiarity about the farmyard scenes — the chickens scattering as humans approach; a dilapidated, abandoned car overcome by shrubbery; and stables which house unidentifiable parts of every type of machinery, but rarely the horses for which the buildings were constructed. There's little warmth, however, about one of the characters in Blackmore's story, which stars a cast of cousins — including one named Rachael — who are staying at their grandparents' farm. Their austere grandad, a killjoy seemingly devoid of affection and human kindness, haunts the children's otherwise fun-filled holiday like a beastly Roald Dahl baddie, always finding fault and cause for discontent. Tom Snape's illustrations add another Dahlian tint to this madcap tale of horse-racing mayhem, in which Blackmore has fun with a Grand National chocolate sweepstake in which Red Rum competes against Tiger Roll and Minella Times, the horse on which Blackmore won at Aintree in 2021. The children's granny, as the title suggests, also gets in on the racing action, blazing a trail not only for female jockeys but for those following their dreams in older age. Pivotal to the whole melee of equine exuberance, however, is the fictional Rachael's New York cousin David. His arrival, ignorant of almost every aspect of Irish rural life, provides the opportunity for Blackmore to introduce young readers to the finer points of farming and racing, as well as country cuisine, as David swaps his notions of smashed avocado on sourdough for spuds and butter. The One and Only You by Shane Hegarty and Ben Mantle (Hachette, €13.99) 'In this whole wide world of people, and animals, and plants, and flowers, and oceans, and lakes, and so, so many other things, too many to count… there is only one you.' Shane Hegarty's picture book is a celebration of individuality with an intergalactic perspective, as a young child discovers how, despite the vastness of this universe and others beyond, each person is completely unique. Generations of ancestors may be reflected through physical similarities — your mother's nose, your father's eyes, or your great-granny's auntie's smile — but put them all together and 'they make you and no one else'. Considering your place among centuries of your own family lineage, let alone in the context of the enormity of humanity and all other life forms, may be a mind-boggling concept for the book's age four-plus readership. But Darkmouth author Hegarty puts the focus back on the individual, assuring young readers that they are far from alone in a world in which family and friends embrace their uniqueness. 17 Martin Street: A graphic novel by Marilyn Taylor, adapted by Alan Nolan, and illustrated by Jason Browne (O'Brien Press, €14.99) When Hetty Golden's family move to Martin St near Dublin's Portobello Bridge during the Second World War, the reception they receive from their new neighbours is mixed. Ben extends the hand of friendship to Hetty, but his father's response to the arrival of a Jewish family is hostile. 'There isn't enough work for us all here,' he says. 'They should all go back where they came from.' Though during 'The Emergency', many are similarly suspicious of strangers, Ben's mother counsels him to consider the persecution suffered by the Jews and to remember that 'we're all people', regardless of differing religions. Ben is given work as the Goldens' Shabbos Goy, doing odd jobs forbidden to Jews on the Sabbath, and when it becomes known that there is a young Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany hiding in the city, he and Hetty become involved in aiding her safety. Alan Nolan and Jason Browne give a graphic novel makeover to Marilyn Taylor's original book, which was in turn inspired by the real life story related to Taylor by a German Jewish woman who had arrived in Ireland at the age of 17, following the Nazis' rise to power. With the eyes of the world now turned to Palestine, the timing of the graphic novel's release is interesting; indeed it makes reference to the young refugee's brother finding safety there in a kibbutz. Yet the story's message of human kindness overcoming difference is more relevant now than ever, and in dedicating his work to all those who find themselves in a new country, Browne adds: 'Being an immigrant is not a burden but a gift that enriches a country.'
Irish Independent
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Twenty interactive and fascinating fact books to get children off their screens, chosen by Sarah Webb
In the second instalment from our series on fantastic children's books, here's some tips on keeping kids entertained with some light-hearted and engaging reads during summer holidays From puzzle books where you must locate the Irish Crown Jewels with the help of a seagull, to the reason why mosquitoes love smelly socks, there's something here for every young reader. by Kieran Fanning, illustrated by Alan O'Rourke (Gill Books)
Irish Times
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Times
Serve: My Lost Years at the Heart of Ireland's Opus Dei: ‘Catholicism on cocaine'
Serve: My Lost Years at the Heart of Ireland's Opus Dei Author : Anne Marie Allen ISBN-13 : 978-1804582862 Publisher : Gill Books Guideline Price : €18.99 Young Anne Marie Allen thought Robert Redford was 'a fine bit of stuff altogether'. She inadvertently swore while watching her native Cork lose the 1982 All-Ireland hurling final on television. She wondered aloud why no money could be found to replace her only pair of shoes when the soles started flapping off. For all these 'mortal sins', Allen's strikingly angry memoir recalls, the Opus Dei members who had made her their unpaid skivvy warned that she and her family were on a one-way road to hell. Opus Dei has often been depicted as a sinister cult, most notoriously in Dan Brown's thriller The Da Vinci Code, which accuses its murderous leaders of suppressing Jesus Christ's marriage to Mary Magdalene. Serve's key message, however, is that the global Catholic organisation's brainwashing techniques can also damage lives on a much more mundane level. In plain, forceful prose, Allen explains how a modest village childhood in 1970s Ballyvourney left her ripe for exploitation. The headstrong 15-year-old hotel worker and her friend were seduced by an alluring newspaper advert: 'Cookery school, Galway, no fee, job guaranteed.' At Ballyglunin Park, she soon discovered that her new reality involved constantly preparing meals and washing clothes for Opus Dei's lofty 'numeraries' while receiving zero education or wages. READ MORE Allen's anguished account suggests she suffered a severe case of Stockholm syndrome. 'You have a vocation as big as a house,' she was repeatedly told, persuading her to adopt a drab, lonely regime she wryly calls 'Catholicism on cocaine'. She describes a litany of physical and psychological abuse, including being ordered to self-flagellate with a cilice (a spiked wire) that bit into her thigh for up to two hours a day. The story ends relatively happily with Allen leaving after six torrid years to forge a successful career in the Irish Prison Service, but she accepts that the mental scars from her own captivity may 'never fully heal'. Serve has some limitations. Allen often reconstructs decades-old conversations word-for-word, a technique that adds immediacy but feels deeply artificial. Today she is pioneering an international campaign of ex-Opus Dei domestic servants who want redress from the Vatican, but there is disappointingly little detail about that here. Allen's unvarnished testimony still makes for an urgent, powerful memoir – and a timely reminder that Pope Leo (who reportedly views Opus Dei benignly) has inherited a church with many sins left to confess.
Irish Examiner
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Children's book reviews: Summer stories to warm up and inspire an eager imagination
Summer is so close we can almost smell the suncream. It's never too early to start thinking about summer reading and lucky for you dear reader, some of our favourite authors and illustrators have been hard at work creating débuts, sequels, series openers, and stories aplenty to keep you turning the pages. Ranging from reality TV penguins to underwater antics, and even a sprinkle of time travel through unexpected worlds, there is something, as always, for every reader to enjoy. Here are our picks for this month but remember for more brilliant book recommendations, simply visit our website: Penguin TV by Owen Churcher and illustrated by Niamh Sharkey (Gill Books) The penguin cam at the zoo's enclosure has become a snorefest, prompting penguin duo Horatio and Myrtle to take matters into their own flippers. What can you expect from Penguin TV? Well, there's swimming, acrobatics, fish, and plenty of penguin-related facts. Gently poking fun at reality TV show antics, this is a story worth tuning in for that will have readers wondering what penguins get up to when humans aren't paying attention. (4+) Badger Books by Paddy Donnelly (The O'Brien Press) After over 52 years in the business, Badger — the proprietor of Badger Books — prides himself on his abilities to find any books his customers desire. But when young Rory makes a specific request for a book about jellyfish on the moon complete with pirate octopuses in a pineapple boat, Badger finds himself stumped. Ideal for the booklovers, booksellers, and storytellers in your life, this is a modern classic in the making with an exquisite level of detailed illustrations that must be seen to be believed. (4+) Dragon Dave the Not So Brave by Alex Latimer and illustrated by Phillip Cullen (Scholastic) Dragon Dave cannot help but feel displeased within the pages of his own story — especially because it ends with him being made into dragon soup. Teaming up with Prince George, this is an enemies-to-friends tale that re-writes itself. Latimer and Cullen are a super pairing in this engaging multi-modal story about taking control of your own narrative with a fairytale twist. This story rewards those keen to re-read and reinterpret their own bedtime stories. (4+) Squid Squad: Nothing to Sea Here by Aoife Dooley (Scholastic) Zany is the word that springs to mind, as readers are invited to explore the underwater world of Nowhere, inhabited by Ollie and Zing — along with their squid squad of sub-aquatic creatures. With four unique episodes, Dooley's first graphic novel for younger readers makes for an excellent intro to the genre. Immersive in more ways than one, vibrant characters and slapstick humour create an underwater caper that will appeal to fans of Spongebob Squarepants. (7+) Amelia Cheeseheart Investigates: Mummy Mayhem! by Cat Weldon and illustrated by Nene Lonergan (Guppy Books) Amelia Cheeseheart is a mouse with a mission. When priceless artefacts begin disappearing from the museum's ancient Egyptian room, a new mystery unfurls for this gutsy mouse to solve. With clues trickled throughout, mini sleuths will adore this graphic novel with a compelling narrative from Weldon — where tension and riddles abound. The warm and winsome illustrations from former Children's Books Ireland's Raising Voices fellow Nene Lonergan make for a strong series starter. (7+) Words Can Fly by Donna Ashworth and illustrated by Eirinn McGuinness (Templar Books) Bestselling poet Donna Ashworth's first collection for young readers is a treasure trove of wisdom. With a focus on resilience building and processing emotions around pivotal moments in a child's life, the warmth of this collection is a balm in a world that can feel increasingly challenging. Eirinn McGuinness' illustrations interspersed throughout elevate this mindful treasury to what is sure to be a beloved keepsake. (8+) Féile: A Twin Power Adventure by Emma Larkin (The O'Brien Press) Twin Power returns. Now in secondary school, Aoife, Aidan, and their friends have the opportunity to take part in Féile: A prestigious Gaelic football tournament. But can the twin power magic work with Aoife and Aidan playing on separate teams? A super progression of this popular series; while the action-packed match scenes will keep readers gripped, the sense of community and comradery found in sport is the true beating heart of this winning tale. (11+) The Brightest Star by Meg Grehan (Little Island Books) In the highly anticipated follow up to The Deepest Breath, Stevie, Chloe, and Andrew are starting secondary school with the usual mix of excitement and worry: Will the friends be able to stay true to themselves and each other in the midst of this big life change? Readers of Stevie's first adventure will be pleased to see this beloved character go from strength to strength when it comes to managing her anxiety and coping with changes. Grehan's sensitivity is her strength, as she reminds readers it's OK to not have it all figured out just yet. (12+) Heartstopper 2 by Alice Oseman, translated by Eoin McEvoy (Futa Fata) Nick and Charlie's love story continues in the second instalment of Alice Oseman's hugely popular series. Picking up where the first story left off, the boys navigate their fledgling romance surrounded by their supportive friend group. Eoin McEvoy's Irish language translation of such a beloved first love story only serves to further enhance this tender tale that will melt the hearts of even the most seasoned cynic. Fingers crossed for more stories like this as Gaeilge representing the LADTAIÉ+ community. (12+) The Doughnut Club by Kristina Rahim (Nosy Crow) In her family of two mums, Quinn has always known she and her brother were conceived using a donor, but when a chance to meet other potential donor siblings arises, her curiosity is sparked. She's always been the odd one out in her outgoing, sporty family; could any of her diblings be like her? Children can be donor-conceived for many reasons; Rahim draws from her experience with her own children to create a strong début on finding belonging and celebrating the bonds that bring families together. (12+) Lady's Knight by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner (Electric Monkey) Lady Isobelle's freedom is in limbo as her fair hand and dowry are the prize in a tournament of Dragonslayers. Gwen has worked as a blacksmith for years and is determined to prove a point to the patriarchy. Could a disguise and a daring plan solve both their problems? Pure entertainment from start to finish, the authors' clever fusion of medieval and modern with a sprinkling of girl power makes for an unmissable tongue-in-cheek romp. (15+) Skipshock by Caroline O'Donoghue (Walker Books) When Margo and Moon's worlds collide (literally) time becomes a commodity they are quickly running out of. Putting a new spin on the phrase 'a race against time', Skipshock is like no other book I have read. Layered, inventive, and expansive, what appears to be a complicated sci-fantasy across various worlds, time zones, and dimensions will effortlessly envelope readers imaginations and swallow them whole. A stunning read. (15+) 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 for more. Read More Tots to Teens: Penguins waddle into the limelight in new book
