is it too early to mention Xxxx?

I’ve been enjoying recent visits to Pj Lynch’s blog so its an opportune time to remind you about special PJ event in December.

Monday December 8th 2008 – 6.30pm
National Library of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

“PJ Lynch… the Champion of Picture Book Illustration in Ireland”

CBI invites you to a special Christmas celebration in honour of Ireland’s foremost picture-book artist, PJ Lynch. PJ will be joined by Dr Pat Donlon to discuss his life and work to date, including such wonderful seasonal titles as The Christmas Miracle of Jonathon Toomey, A Christmas Carol and The Gift of The Magi, published  this year.
Those attending will also have the opportunity to enjoy an exhibition of selected pieces from the National Library’s PJ Lynch collection, which will be on public display for the first time to mark the occasion and PJ will be happy to sign books as well.

Please Note: Entry to this event is free but numbers are limited. To book please email:
info@childrensbooksireland.ie, including your name, telephone number and the number of places you require for event.

Ostrich Boys and Creatures of the Night

Kate Thompson and Keith Gray were fascinating on Monday evening in the National Library. There was a couple of key issues that stood out for me….

What is this notion of young adult fiction or writing for teenagers? I think both writers felt that books about teenagers and books for teenagers where distinguished from each other by intent – whether the author was writing reflectively around the teenage years in the former or writing about the teenage experience in the latter – it was a point I would have liked to talk more about – in fact I could have talked about it all evening…..

The other element that struck me was the differences between Kate and Keith in their writing style, their focus and their outlooks. Really interesting stuff.

On a final note – was delighted Keith supplied a collective noun for interesting ideas and pertinent points – apparently henceforth it will be called a “Dunbar” in honour of Robert Dunbar our fantastic chair for the evening.

Kate Thompson

Niall MacMonagle gave Kate Thompson a very favourable review in the book section of Saturday’s Irish Times. It really is a terrific read which showcases Kate’s great skill in blending the fantastical with ordinary family life. David Maybury has an interesting review  also

For those who are interested in hearing more about Creature of the Night, CBI will present Kate in conversation with Robert Dunbar and Scottish author Keith Gray, in the National Library on Monday June 30th from 6.30pm

Tickets are free but should be booked in advance by contacting CBI – 01 8727475/info@childrensbooksireland.ie

Ps Kate Thompson for Aosdana anyone?