Fingal libraries cast a spell with The Magic of Stories Children’s Literature Festival

On Saturday, 28 September 2024, over 2,000 people flocked to Swords Castle for The Magic of Stories Festival, hosted by Fingal Libraries.

This magical festival celebrated children’s literature with a day filled with amazing writers, illustrators, theatre performances, music, and art, offering fun and creativity for families from all across Fingal. The festival was a true testament to the community’s passion for books and storytelling, inspiring a love for literature among children and families alike.

Those in attendance embraced the opportunity to meet some of their favourite authors and illustrators.? The Swords Castle Chapel became a hub of creativity and inspiration as it hosted renowned authors Tarsila Krüse, Sarah Bowie, Paddy Donnelly, and Marita Conlon-McKenna. Each author read from their books, taking time to answer questions, offering insights into their stories and the creative process.  Niamh Sharkey and Owen Churcher read from the brilliant ‘Hello Bird’ followed by a “Monster Doodle” in the Story Tent. The tent also hosted the songs, stories and puppets of Sarah Sparkles as well as ’Magnificent Mask-Making’ with Margaret-Anne Suggs. The Bits & Bobs Orchestra provided musical entertainment and allowed a mesmerised young audience to conduct the orchestra and even try the instruments.

Alan Nolan entertained the crowd in the Tall-Tales Tent with The Great Castle Drawalong, before leading everyone on an epic treasure hunt through the castle grounds. The air was buzzing with excitement as authors Leona Forde and Derek Landy arrived to meet fans, read from their books and answer questions. Chris Judge told us about his new hilarious bestseller ‘Evil Duck’ and shared a few dastardly drawing tricks. The Magic of Stories was also the perfect opportunity to launch the exciting ‘Made in Swords’ initiative. ‘Made in Swords’ is a collaborative project between Chris Judge and the Transition Year students of Fingal Community College to create a graphic novel and artwork for the construction hoarding on North Street, Swords.

Fingal library staff greeted attendees at The Little Library Tent with lots of information on how to join the library and on the services provided by Fingal Libraries and a chance to see the brand-new Library Book Bike. Families enjoyed trying the range of sensory toys available to borrow from local library branches and playing with garden games provided by the Fingal Sports Department.There were Storytimes, Fantasy Map Making, and the hugely popular Creation Station with Niamh Sharkey and Mary Murphy. Áine Gallagher could be found here with her giant ‘Cup of Focals’ and ‘A Snail’s Tale’ departed throughout the day, winding their way through the castle grounds and delighting audiences on their quest to do good and find love for snaily steed, Mishelle.

The Creative Zone was a hive of activity with Street Art Ink Graffiti and Lollipop Tye Dye Workshops, Art and Story-making with Orlaith O’Sullivan, Child Vision and Messy Play with Louise from Messy Adventures. The fantastic Fanzini brothers roamed the castle grounds entertaining everyone with their amazing interactive comedy performances. In the Castle Wall, the Book Doctors from Children’s Books Ireland were busy giving children one-to-one advice on what books they will love. Each child left with a Reading Passport with a ‘prescription’ they can fill in themselves over time. In The Planetarium, author and illustrator Eve McDonnell brought everyone’s imaginations on a journey as the sky above filled with stars.

The Magic of Stories was attended by the Mayor of Fingal Cllr. Brian McDonagh as well as our local Councillors.  Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Brian Mc Donagh said, “We had a brilliant day at The Magic of Stories in Swords Castle. What a fantastic festival, filled with books, fun and creativity! I went with my own 6-year-old and his cousins who are 8 and 10. They spent 6 hours enthralled and entertained by brilliant authors and performers who gave so much time and energy to all the Children. I couldn’t believe how many different workshops, readings and activities there were! We cannot wait until this Festival comes around again next year! I can highly recommend it.”

Betty Boardman, County Librarian said “The Magic of Stories Festival at Swords Castle brings together authors, illustrators, and creatives, offering children a unique opportunity to engage with the storytellers who bring their favourite tales to life. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Swords Castle, the festival becomes a space where imagination and creativity flourish, celebrating the joy of stories in a truly magical environment. The festival’s success is a testament to the role libraries play in the heart of our communities, offering free, inclusive services and making events like this accessible to everyone.”

The Magic of Stories was an enchanting day, filled with joy and excitement. Fingal Libraries also offered every child who attended the special opportunity to receive a book to take home, and the chance to get it signed by their favorite author in the ‘Meet the Author’ tent. The smiling faces as everyone departed was a heartwarming reminder that the love for books, literature, and libraries is alive and well in Fingal. It was a day that truly celebrated the magic of stories and the joy of reading.