23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Double win for Wicklow author at Children's Books Ireland Awards win
The verse novel by Eilish Fisher, which is set in pre-historic Ireland, tells the story of thirteen-year-old Fia and her beloved snow deer Solas, was also awarded the Éilís Dillon Prize celebrating Fisher's outstanding debut children's book.
Speaking at the awards, Eilish said: 'I'm deeply honoured to receive these awards. As a debut author, it's incredibly moving to see Fia and the Last Snow Deer resonate with both judges and readers around the country.
"Knowing that so many young readers connected with Fia's story means more to me than I can say. I'm grateful beyond words—and so proud to be part of Ireland's vibrant children's literature community.'
Eilish received her award from host Rick O'Shea at a ceremony held in Merrion Square, in partnership with International Literature Festival Dublin. Fia and the Last Snow Deer is published by Puffin Books and is illustrated by Dermot Flynn.
Eilish grew up in a 200-year-old haunted farmhouse in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont and moved to Ireland in 1998. She began writing increasingly diverse poetry as a young teenager and in 1996, won a place at the esteemed Breadloaf Young Writer's Conference in Middlebury Vermont.
When she was 19 Eilish came to Maynooth University to immerse myself in ancient Irish myth and history. She was awarded a Bachelor's Degree in English, History and Medieval Irish Studies, a Master's degree in Early Medieval Irish History and Literature and a Doctorate in Medieval English Literature from the National University of Ireland, Maynooth.
She was also a member of The Avoca Writers' Group and currently resides in Glenmalure.
