Children's Books Ireland International Conference

The Children's Books Ireland International Conference is a weekend-long celebration of the very best in children's books. Taking place in September, this annual event is a unique opportunity to critically reflect on the impact, imagination and importance of books for young people. Anyone with an interest in and a passion for children's books is welcome to attend and participate in what is always an outward-looking, lively and thought-provoking event.

All the way home: Conference 2022

Children's Books Ireland International Conference 2022 | 'All the Way Home'

Light House Cinema, 24–25 September 2022

Children's Books Ireland invites speakers from Ireland and around the world to energise, excite, inform and inspire our delegates. Past guests have included several internationally renowned authors, illustrators, publishers and other children's books experts. All are welcome to enjoy this weekend event with other children's books enthusiasts from Ireland and further afield.

Featuring an array of international children’s authors, illustrators and poets, the 2022 conference’s theme, ‘All the Way Home’ asks each of its speakers to reflect on the meaning of home, and how a sense of homecoming and place informs their work.

Fans of children’s literature will be delighted to see international artists such as Carson Ellis (Du Iz Tak?), Alex Wheatle (Cane Warriors, Crongton Knights, Brixton Rock) and Nikita Gill (These are the Words)) on the line-up, while firm favourites Eoin Colfer, Chris Judge and Paddy Donnelly demonstrate the talent and creativity that define Irish children’s books.

Meeting for the first time since his inauguration as Waterstones UK Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho will join Laureate na nÓg Áine Ní Ghlinn in a comparative discussion of their respective work as Laureates, led by award-winning children’s author, Patricia Forde.

Anyone with an interest in and a passion for children's books is welcome to attend and participate in what is always an outward-looking, lively and thought-provoking event.


Day and weekend tickets for the Children's Books Ireland International Conference 2022 are now on sale, with a discounted rate for members. 

If you are unwaged, we have a limited number of conference tickets set aside at no fee. We can also hold a ticket for you if you wish to delay payment. Please do get in touch as soon as possible on (01) 872 7475 or at info@childrensbooksireland.ie. All information shared is strictly confidential.