Sarah Webb
Author, manager of Halfway up the Stairs children’s bookshop and campaigner for Discover Irish Kids Books
Letters to a Monster by Patricia Forde, illustrated by Sarah Warburton
(Bloomsbury Children’s Books)
One night Sophie writes a note to the monster under her bed. Slowly through their letters they become friends, working together to deal with the gorilla under their bed. An exceptional story about anxiety, facing your fears and making new friends. The text is clever and funny, and the illustrations are detailed and beautifully designed. A wonderful picture book from Ireland’s Laureate na nÓg, perfect for reading out loud. Age 4+
The Waters and the Wild by Eilish Fisher, illustrated by David Rooney
(Puffin Books)
Eilish Fisher’s last book Fia and the Last Snow Deer (illustrated by Dermot Flynn) won both the Children’s Books Ireland Book of the Year Award and the An Post Book of the Year (senior children’s category) and was one of my favourite books of 2025. She’s back with a stunning new novel about grief, bravery and the faerie world that sent shivers down my spine. A beautifully written and illustrated verse novel, bound to be another award-winner. Age 10+
My Name is Jodie Jones by Emma Shevah
(David Fickling Books)
Jodie Jones insists on being called by her full name, which baffles and irritates her teachers and her controlling mother. She is passionate about words and this is reflected in her first-person narrative, a joy for fellow word nerds like me. She’s dealing with a traumatic experience in her past while also navigating family problems and school pressure; luckily, she has a friend to support her, the magnificent Becca. My favourite teen novel of the year. Age 14+
Sarah Webb’s latest book is The Weather Girls (O’Brien Press)
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Alan Nolan
Author, illustrator and graphic designer
Badger Books by Paddy Donnelly
(O’Brien Press)
This is the second picture book that Paddy has written and illustrated about the industrious animal townsfolk of Ballybrush. The first one, Fox & Son Tailers, is an absolute gem, but in my opinion Badger Books, being about three of my favourite subjects – books, bookshops and badgers – sparkles even brighter. Age 4+
After by Pádraig Kenny, illustrated by Steve McCarthy
(Walker Books)
A chilling, exciting and frighteningly timely story set in a world in the aftermath of an AI-versus-human apocalypse, this book moves along at a lively pace yet still takes the time to ponder on the nature of being human. I read it in two sittings, but it stayed with me for a long, long while after. I loved it. Age 10+
The Museum of Lost Umbrellas by Mary-Louise Fitzpatrick
(Faber)
This book was fun from start to finish. Mary-Louise is a skilled world-builder, and Ollipest, the small island full of former magical practitioners that the main character Dilly moves to, is a masterclass in world-building. This is a warm, fantastic and, most of all, fresh look at magic, and is perfect for young aficionados of spells and broomsticks (and umbrellas). Age 10-12
Alan Nolan’s latest book is The Grand Central Cinema Club (O’Brien Press)
Lori Moriarty
Librarian and booktokker
Ellora McGee, Trainee Banshee by Sinéad O’Hart, illustrated by Úna Woods
(Gill)
Ellora is feeling a little overwhelmed at the start of this new series. She’s just moved to Ballyshee, is starting a new school and has become the first trainee banshee in her family for a few generations. Trying to keep her banshee wail under wraps so as not to scare new friends, she soon realises that something very strange is happening in Ballyshee. Children will love the use of Irish folktales and mythology in this series, especially when paired with Úna Woods’s beautiful illustrations. Ideal for fans of Isadora Moon and Vampirina. Age 5-10
Squid Squad by Aoife Dooley
(Scholastic)
Join Ollie (a vampire Squid) and Zing (a sea bunny) on a chaotic, underwater adventure in this graphic novel from Aoife Dooley. This zany tale features a cast of sea creatures, all with their own unique abilities, and centres on themes that have featured in Dooley’s previous books: being completely yourself and finding your squad. The bright, bold illustration and humour make Squid Squad perfect for fans of Dogman, Bunny vs Monkey and SpongeBob SquarePants. Age 5-10
Any Way You Slice It by Méabh McDonnell
(O’Brien Press)
Delicious cakes, cosy recipes and one evil nemesis. This book sees a very determined Carrie place her plans for her future as a pastry chef in the hands of the one person who has ruined those dreams before. Carrie has no choice but to team up with Dara, her equally talented enemy, for a baking competition which will decide both their futures and their unexpected and blossoming friendship. Fans of Jenny Han and Jenny Ireland will love this sweet book. Age 14+
