Whether you’re the adult reading bedtime stories or the child listening attentively and conjuring up wonderful images in your mind, the world of children’s books is a very special place.
Perhaps you are the writer who wants to foster a love of reading? If you’re interested in learning more about publishing books for children then why not head along to an information-packed day for writers and illustrators at Baboró on Saturday October 21 in the Mick Lally Theatre.
All are welcome – new, emerging and established alike. Developed by Children’s Books Ireland in collaboration with award-winning children and adult books writer, Sarah Webb, the event is titled ‘So, you want to write a proper book’ and runs from 10.30 – 4.30 (tickets €25 which includes a light lunch ).
First successfully presented in Dublin earlier this year topics covered will include How can books earn you money? How much do writers get paid? Do you need to present at events and be active on social media? What are publishers and agents looking for when it comes to picture books and chapter books?
Before any book reaches the hands of a child, there are many adults to deal with: editors, illustrators and publicists not to mention the buying adults. You can have all these questions answered, and more, by experts on the day.
Speakers on the day will include Aoife Murray, Programme and Events Manager at Children’s Books Ireland; Emily Cullen, Programme Director, Cúirt International Festival of Literature; Conor Hackett, Hackett Flynn Publishers Agency; Jane Mitchell - an award-winning author of books for children and young people; Patricia Forde, a dual-language author based in Galway; Dave Rudden, best selling author of The Knights of the Borrowed Dark series and many more.
The event is presented in association with Children’s Books Ireland and supported by Creative Ireland. Baboró places a strong emphasis on literature and this year boasts an expanded programme. Other literature-based events include master storytellers RTÉ’s Ryan Tubridy and illustrator PJ Lynch who will talk about their collaboration on Patrick and The President, a stunning book about John F Kennedy’s trip to Ireland.
Galway-based author Patricia Forde will introduce children to Lísín the pirate through an interactive bi-lingual event; Jane Mitchell will read from her book A Dangerous Crossing based on the experiences of Syrian families while award-winning author Dave Rudden will share his insights on how to get your own writing career started while talking about his own writing journey with his Knights of the Borrowed Dark trilogy.
There is also the hugely popular storytime in Charlie Byrne’s bookshop.
For more details about the ‘So, you want to write a proper book’ event on Saturday October 21, and to see the full Baboró programme go to www.baboro.ie or call 091 562 667.
Baboró has lots to offer children, families and schools. Baboró International Arts Festival for Children runs in various venues throughout Galway from 16 – 22 October.
