Abbeyleix Library was delighted to welcome author and wonder-larker Eve McDonnell to Laois last week where she brought a class from Abbeyleix South National School on an adventure filled with soot, stars and wishes coming true! Eve led a workshop which drew on the imagination and involved looking at everyday objects in magical ways. The session ended with the young people creating a huge sooty fingerprint formed out of their wishes, an activity in keeping with her latest novel 'The Last Boy'.
This novel follows George Brewster and his wish to be the last climbing boy (child chimney sweep). Brewster is challenged by the powerful lady of Birr Castle to use his amazing ability with numbers to make her wish come true and in return she might just help George with his. This book is an amazing mix of magic, history, science and hope perfect for children aged 10 and up.
Children's Book Festival is a month long festival that brings the magic of books and reading to children across Ireland, and we're especially excited to be welcoming hundreds of young readers from Laois with their schools.
Throughout the month, children from local schools will have the chance to participate in a variety of exciting library events. From engaging storytime sessions to hands-on workshops with talented authors, illustrators, and storytellers, our libraries will be buzzing with creativity! This is a wonderful opportunity for children to meet their favourite authors and illustrators, and spark their own creativity.