Theme:

Growing up

Book Cover – Skipshock

Skipshock

Margo did not expect to fall into a new dimension when she got on the train to her new boarding school. When she finds herself following a travelling salesman called Moon as they disembark into a strange world, Margo soon realises that time is a commodity which she took for granted.

Book Cover – Solo

Solo

Music has always been a part of Daisy’s life. Everyone else seems to exist within a unit – her twin brothers, her parents, the girls at school. Daisy’s other half is her recorder. However, when she starts dating David, her love for him overrides her passion for music, and she allows him to consume the time and energy she had previously committed to practice. When a shock break-up leaves her reeling, Daisy must come to terms with what it means to be a solo act once again.

Book Cover – Tír na nÓg

Tír na nÓg: A Favourite Irish Legend

Some Irish myths have been heard a thousand times, borrowed for advertisements, and taken for granted: here, McGann reminds us that there is always something new to discover. In this beautiful retelling of the timeless tale of Oisín and Tír na nÓg – a story many of us think we know so well that its magic is often overlooked – McGann’s simple, lyrical prose effortlessly evokes the ethereal beauty of Tír na nÓg, while the modern, vibrant illustrations from Busuttil breathe fresh life into this ancient legend.

Book Cover – We Fell Apart

We Fell Apart

Matilda has moved around a lot: her mother has always jumped from one relationship to another, dropping everything to take off to another country with her daughter trailing behind. But that’s all Matilda’s ever known, so when she receives an email from her father, a world-renowned artist that she’s never met, with an invitation to his beachside castle, she can’t help but wonder if he could help her to finally find herself after all this time. But of course, things at Hidden Beach are not quiet what they seem.

Book Cover – Run Home, Little Fox

Run Home, Little Fox

With danger lurking on every page, this is a charming coming-of-age story about a young fox – Foxy – who ventures out on his first solo adventure. What makes this tale truly special is not just its mix of comedy, menace, and friendship, but its stunning depictions of Irish wildlife and the everyday beauty of an Irish back garden.

Book Cover – Baby Look!

Baby Look! A Sensory Playbook

Baby Look! A Sensory Playbook is a joyful, hands-on introduction to books for the very youngest readers. Designed with babies and curious toddlers in mind, each page offers something to touch, slide, spin or explore. The bright art, gentle prompts and sturdy moving parts make this a book that invites little hands to stay busy while little eyes take in colours, shapes and familiar animals.

Book Cover – Sketch

Sketch

Sketch is a creative and imaginative boy who is unlike anyone else. He looks different and his exuberance sets him apart in the perfect town where he lives. This is a place where people walk in neat lines and every house is identical. His parents nurture his creative side and his art teacher recognises his talent and encourages him to persevere. Nevertheless, he feels isolated until he moves school and finds like-minded friends.

Book Cover – 'But Dancing is for Girls!'

'But Dancing is for Girls!'

All Chester wants to do is dance, but he is constantly told that dancing is for girls! So, to achieve his dream of becoming a dancer, he must remain passionate and strong, regardless of what others say.

Inis 76 cover illustration

Inis magazine: issue 76, January 2026

Inis is the magazine of Children's Books Ireland. Within these pages you will find features and articles on Irish and international children's books as well as in-depth reviews of new titles for children and teenagers. With its range of expert contributors, this is a key resource for teachers, writers, illustrators, librarians, parents/guardians and everyone interested in children's books.

Book Cover – Poems From A Witch's Pocket

Poems From A Witch's Pocket

A soothing, playful romp, this book comprises of poems collected from the contents of a young witch’s pockets: jotted-down spells, reminders, notes, wishes, hopes and dreams. It is a loving exploration of the complexity of adolescence, alternating between tender, as when she muses on remaining close to her sisters while growing up, and toothy, as when she imagines how she might advertise a family-run hex business.