Children’s book series re-issued after 20 years

A NORTHSIDE author and broadcaster was the centre of attention at local libraries recently when he read from his newly updated book, which he co-wrote 22 years ago.

Pat Meehan, originally from Ballybough and now living in Donnycarney, read from the re-issued

‘Shamrogue’ series for school children at both Coolock and Donaghmede libraries. He will also be reading at three Fingal libraries in the coming weeks.

First, the children were shown a three-minute

‘Shamrogues’ cartoon, which was followed by a reading from the author of the much-loved books.

After that the kids were given the opportunity to ask questions about writing, before enjoying some

‘Shamrogues’ goodies given away on the day.

Together with co-author Niall Spratt, Mr Meehan created the

‘Shamrogues’, a group entrusted with the power of the high druids of Ireland when magic became forbidden in Ireland.

Disguised as stones, the

‘Shamrogues’ are awakened from their sleep by a little girl called Niamh. Together with Niamh and her brother Conor and sister Sinead, and with many other creatures they meet along the way, the Shamrogues set out on a quest to save the local environment from its enemies.

The

‘Shamrogues’ series, published by Orpen Press, has been updated and is being re-issued after its initial success in the early

’90s. Having sold over 40,000 copies in its first edition, this series is set to delight a new generation of children.

There are four books in the series and Mr Meehan is currently working on a fifth book.

Meanwhile, Mr Meehan has also written a two-part pilot satirical history series, entitled

‘Rivitin’, which was broadcast on community radio station NEARfm on October 10 and will be broadcast again this Wednesday, October 17 at 6pm.

*The

‘Shamrogues’ book series is available in all good book shops including Eason.