Ruth Ennis gives you the only list you need of Irish picture books this year
It has been a monumental year for picture books by Irish and Ireland-based authors and illustrators. There are stories about families and the various shapes they take, animals going on the wildest adventures imaginable, touching stories about remaining hopeful in the face of hardships, and a beautiful poetry collection for good measure. As the end of the year approached, you might want to consider one (or lots!) of these twenty-five picturebooks as a gift for the youngest of readers in your life.
My Brother is an Avocado written by Tracy Darnton and illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail (Simon and Schuster)
Our protagonist has a baby brother on the way! But right now, he is only the size of a poppy seed, then a bean, a grape, a Brussels sprout, a lemon, an avocado, an onion, a lettuce, a pumpkin, and then a watermelon.
At every stage our protagonist shares what adventures they’ll go on together, and the concerns they have about being an older sibling. This is such a creative and wonderfully written story that will resonate with lots of families. An absolutely adorable book with endearing and cosy watercolour illustrations, this is the perfect picturebook to gift soon-to-be older siblings.
Mr Wolf Goes to the Ball by Tatyana Feeney (The O’Brien Press)
Mr Wolf is on the hunt for a new outfit for the ball, and with the help of his friend Sheep, they make the perfect dress for it. But when Mr Wolf’s other friends say that dresses are only for girls, Mr Wolf isn’t sure about it anymore. But Sheep reminds him that you can wear anything you want as long as it makes you feel good. The illustrations are innovative and simply fabulous with a mix of sponge/paint and pencil work. A wonderful book that keeps you guessing at every turn and will have you laughing from page one, this is a crucial read for any reader who needs a reminder to be yourself.
Wonder-Vet by Jennifer Farley (Beehive Books)
A non-fiction story for slightly older readers, this picturebook follows the life of Aleen Cust, the first female vet in Ireland and Britain. Exploring her love for animals from an early age, to her determination to receive a veterinarian’s education, to her work during WWI, this is a must-read for any animal-lover.
The images are striking, with rich colour palettes and a suitably textured illustration style, which shines with the range of animals included in the story (including the charming endpapers). A unique book that will capture the interest of many budding veterinarians.
Henny is Stuck by Aileen Crossley (Little Door Books)
Henny is an adorable baby chick. While all the other chicks have broken out of their eggs and are on their way to grand adventures, Henny is still stuck in her shell. Her friends take turns trying to help Henny escape her shell, not realising a dangerous fox is lurking in the background. Henny is such an endearing protagonist to this story.
The illustrations are nothing short of inspired. My favourite spreads have to be when all the chicks gather in a circle to put their heads together, and the stretch of Buttercup Hill that informs the books memorable cover.
Wild City by Ashwin Chacko (The O’Brien Press)
Lily and Tim are on their way to explore Dublin city when they let us in on a secret; they can turn any boring thing into a wonderful new creation with a Snap! Clap! Zap! The Luas is transformed into an underwater submarine, the Spire switches into a time machine tower, and much more.
This book is bursting with imagination, filled with vibrant and exciting illustrations that are incredibly eye-catching. It is always lovely to see stories set in cities where many young readers call home. You’ll finish this book with a fresh perspective on the world around you, where anything is possible.
I Say OH You Say NO by John Kane (Templar Books)
This book will have everyone in fits of giggles from beginning to end. Our narrator sets some ground rules; every time you see the word “oh” you must respond with a big “no!”. And every time you see a picture of a bee, you must shout out “be!” Of course, this leads to some misunderstanding, confusion, and a lot of laughter.
The latest in this interactive series, this is the perfect storytime book for libraries and schools (though perhaps not best suited for a calm bedtime story, there’s just too much excitement involved!). A wholly enjoyable read, highly recommended.
A Limerick Fairytale written by Gráinne O’Brien and illustrated by Lena Stawowy (The O’Brien Press)
The latest addition to the Ireland-based retellings of classic fairytales, we turn to Limerick for a contemporary version of Cinderella. The prince is adamant to have a fairytale love-story and hosts three balls to achieve this. The beautiful and fun-loving Limerella catches his eye and when she mysteriously vanishes, so he sends soldiers all across Limerick to find her.
With lots of nods to famous Limerick landmarks, a refreshing reimagining of Cinderella’s character, and plenty of chuckle-worthy illustrations, this is sure to appeal to anyone who lives in or has visited this part of the country.
Madame Badobedah and the Old Bones written by Sophie Dahl and illustrated by Lauren O’Hara (Walker Books)
The second addition to the series, this book follows young Mabel and her friend Madame Badobedah on an adventure involving a jewel, a triceratops, and a hint of breaking-and-entering. This is a touching story about the friendship between a young girl and her elder. A longer picturebook with more text, this is best suited for more confident young readers.
The instantly recognisable watercolour illustrations by O’Hara are simply fabulous. It’s nearly impossible to pick an outstanding spread as they’re all excellent, though the museum setting and any depiction of the dinosaurs are particularly wonderful.
The Slug and the Snail written by Oein DeBhairduin and illustrated by Olya Anima (Little Island Books and Skein Press)
Taken from a tale rooted in the oral tradition of the Irish Traveller community, this picturebooks tells the story of two brother slugs who journey together across the land. One day they meet a crow who asks them where their home is. The younger slug decides to build a home in the form of a shell, while the older slug explains his home is all around him.
With creative watercolour illustrations and engaging text, this is a touching story that celebrates the beauty in nomadic lives. It is an incredibly welcome publication and I hope to see more stories like this in years to come.
Púcaí Schmúcaí written by Gabriel Rosenstock and illustrated by Tarsila Krüse and Úna Woods, with music from John Ryan (Futa Fata)
A collection of twenty-nine poems, both old and new, in accessible Irish by Gabriel Rosenstock, this is a must-have in every home. From tales of animals finding themselves in strange circumstances, to silly and fun rhymes about sneezes, there is a verse in here to be enjoyed by everyone. My favourite poem in the collection is an tOctapas, about a sea creature on a very special day. Krüse and Woods have outdone themselves in their bright and warm illustrations that bring the poetry to life.
There are also QR codes that will bring you to online links where you can listen to musician John Ryan perform the poems. An absolute joy to read that I look forward to revisiting again and again.
It’s Too Dark, Puffling written by Erika McGann and illustrated by Gerry Daly (The O’Brien Press)
The third in the puffling series introduces us to the Little Puffling, a new friend to the beloved titular Puffling. Little Puffling is having a tough time falling to sleep because the dark is too dark and it scares her. So, bigger Puffling takes her all across Skellig Michael to chat with other animals to encourage Little Puffling to not be afraid anymore.
A heart-warming story and a perfect fit for bedtime, this is a very sweet book. The illustrations showcase some of Daly’s best work to date, the night sky watercolours are simply breathtaking.
Gealach agus Grian written by Muireann Ní Chíobháin and illustrated by Brian Fitzgerald (Futa Fata)
Did you know that the Sun and the Moon once lived in a house together? They were very different to each other and there wasn’t enough room for both of them, so Moon moved out. Moon searched all across the world, before Sun suggested one place that was big enough for both of them; out in space. Now they spend some time apart, and some time together.
This is a delightful book that will especially be appreciated by siblings who share a room. The illustrations are light and fun, the panels of Moon looking for a home in the deep sea is particularly enjoyable.
The President’s Dog by Peter Donnelly (Gill Books)
Possibly the most anticipated instalment in this iconic President series, we are introduced to The President’s new dog. The two go on a hike up on a mountain together, but when a storm suddenly appears, it’s up to The President’s dog to save the day and get them both home safely. An enjoyable story with lovely illustrations in Donnelly’s immediately recognisable style, this is a welcome return to the series.
The illustrations are dynamic and action-packed, perfectly suited for this adorable pup, a favourite spread is when the dog soars rights across the page in one majestic leap.
Kevin’s in a Mood by Sarah Bowie (The O’Brien Press)
Suzy and Kevin (the cat) are best friends and they do everything together. But one day, Suzy is invited to a birthday party and Kevin is suddenly in a mood. One by one Suzy’s friends come by and try to cheer Kevin up. Nothing works, until Kevin receives an invitation to the party and is in a much better mood, no longer feeling left out.
A charming and cheeky book (the picture of a cat bum is particularly funny), this is an engaging read with a surprisingly touching message about including others. A thoroughly enjoyable picturebook.
The Pain in My Chest written by Áine Murray and illustrated by Bronagh Lee (The O’Brien Press)
Our protagonist is a little girl who wants to do brave things, like catch a balloon before it flies away, try out for a part in the school play, or a make a new friend. But each time, something stops her; a pain in her chest. When she talks to her mum about his feeling, her mum explains that this is anxiety, that lots of people experience it, and it’s important to share so you feel less alone.
A sweet book that will resonate with any reader who is struggling with fears or anxiety, well worth having on your bookshelves in schools and at home.
Standing On One Leg is Hard written by Erika McGann and illustrated by Clive McFarland (The O’Brien Press)
Baby Heron is eager to stand on one leg, just like the big herons do. But it’s much harder than it looks. The heron chick tries all sorts of tricks to help it stay upright; balancing on an otter, wearing shoes, or atop a chair. Nothing seems to work until – as is always the way – nobody is watching it.
A seriously funny book that had me in stitches laughing at the illustration of the baby heron standing on top of a smaller heron who is very unimpressed, this is sure to get a giggle out of readers of all ages.
Lulu’s Nana Visits by Anna McQuinn and illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw (Alanna Max)
In this latest instalment in the Lulu series, Lulu’s Nana-Bibi travels a long way to visit. They and Lulu’s mammy spend lots of quality time together, cooking, caring for each other’s hair, sharing gifts, and more. A beautifully gentle story about intergenerational love, this is a joyful book that will be adored by all, especially for those with Nanas of their own coming to visit at this time of year.
The illustrations are excellent, particularly the various outfits of the three girls in the story – mammy’s pink playsuit being a personal favourite.
Dodo’s Are NOT Extinct by Paddy Donnelly (The O’Brien Press)
Being an endangered animal is tough work, being in the limelight all of the time. So, dodo birds, along with many other “extinct animals” decide to hide in plain sight. From dodo’s wearing tuxedos and hiding among penguins, to woolly mammoths shaving off their hair to look like elephants, you’ll hardly believe the secret lives all around us.
A hilarious book with wildly entertaining text and lively illustrations, this is a delight to read. At the end of the story, you’ll find lots of facts and information about the extinct creatures mentioned in this book.
The Secret Elephant by Ellan Rankin (Wren and Rook)
Our narrator is a baby elephant who loves her keeper with all her heart. When a war begins and the elephant is scared of the bombs, the keeper takes it upon herself to bring the elephant home at night to keep each other company. Based on the true story of Denise Weston Austin and events that took place at the Belfast Zoo, this is a hopeful story that will appeal to any animal-lover. Woven throughout the story are delightfully funny moments when our elephant is perhaps not as nimble as she thinks she is.
My Momma Zo written by Kelly and Zoey Allen and illustrated by Tara O’Brien (Uclan Publishing)
Introducing Molly and her family; her big brother George, her Mommy Kel, Momma Zo, and dog Ziggy. They’re a very close-knit family who love and look out for each other. Molly explains that Momma Zo wasn’t always the way she is now, and that Molly used to call her Daddy, but no matter what she calls her, Molly will always love her Momma Zo.
A stunning story about transgender parenthood and the various shapes families can look like, this is a heartwarming read with beautifully patterned illustrations. An incredibly important book to have on your bookshelf.
The Hare-Shaped Hole written by John Dougherty and illustrated by Thomas Docherty (Frances Lincoln Children’s Books)
A hare and a turtle are best friends who do everything together. One day, the hare vanishes, and in her place is an empty hare-shaped hole. The turtle is upset with this hole, getting angry with it, begging for his friend to come back, and crying. With the help of a bear friend, the turtle begins to fill the hare-shaped hole with bright, colourful memories of his old friend.
A touching story that navigates the stages of grief with grace, this is a beautifully written story with breath-taking illustrations. An excellent book that I’ve no doubt will bring some readers a lot of comfort.
An Snag Breac Ildailte written by Emma Baskin and illustrated by Serena Scully (Leabhair Comhar)
A magpie is admiring all of the creatures around him and wishes he was as colourful as the butterflies and the bees. He asks the animals how he can be as colourful as they are, but they tell him he’ll only ever be black and white. But then an owl explains to the magpie that he is as colourful as the other creatures, he just needs to look at it in a new (sun)light.
This is such a lovely gem of a book, with some of my favourite picturebook illustrations of the year to be seen when the magpie stretches his wings. A fabulous Irish-language book, highly recommended.
My Friend, Loonie written by Nina LaCour and illustrated by Ashling Lindsay (Walker Books)
A little girl is gifted a bright yellow balloon – Loonie – by her mums and they become inseparable. They read together, dance together, and sleep together. But when Loonie flies up to the sky and disappears, the girl is left feeling lonely. With the help from her mums, she begins to notice all sorts of bright yellow things around her that remind her of her friend and make the world that bit brighter. The magnificent illustrations bring this story to life, with their vibrant colours, dynamic spreads, and charming characters, you could spend hours admiring this beautiful artwork.
April’s Garden written by Isla McGuckin and illustrated by Catalina Echeverri (Graffeg)
April and her mum have to leave home very suddenly and now live in a big house with other people. April is unhappy in her new home, and her mum suggests that she grow flowers with the seeds they have. It takes a long time, but eventually they save up enough pennies to live in their own home and the flowers bloom, glowing with bright colours.
This is an incredibly touching story, navigating the nuances of displacement with understanding and hope. The illustrations are masterfully developed in the book, starting out with dull colours and gradually introducing stunningly vivid colours. A wonderful book, I look forward to seeing more work from this talented storytelling duo.
Too Many Cats! by Kate Sheehy (The O’Brien Press)
Lily is all about cats. At home she has her pet cat Lenny and pet dog Larry. But she wants more cats, as many as she can get her hands on. She hatches a plan to lure as many cats to her home as is possible, but things quickly go wrong. Having resonated with Lily’s love for cats deeply, I couldn’t help but adore this spunky protagonist. Eagle-eyed readers will notice Lenny is not on board with her plan, which is a lovely detail to include in the colourful and cosy illustrations. An excellent book that had me smiling from beginning to end, this is a strong contender for my favourite picturebook of the year.
And there you have it! Twenty-five of the many picture books by Irish and Ireland-based artists and storytellers published in 2023 for you to discover and explore. I’m a firm believer that readers of all ages can enjoy a good picture book, and there truly is something for everyone among these exciting new releases.
