Obpschools 2017

for Schools 2017–2018 A comprehensive guide to O’Brien Press children’s books and how to use them in the classroom

www.obrien.ie/schools

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t The O’Brien Press, we’re always conscious of the changing needs of schools and of teachers. In this catalogue, we have put together the perfect set of books and FREE resources for you to teach the New Primary Language Curriculum with ease.

From stunning picture books to suspensefilled historical fiction, our selection of engaging, entertaining and challenging reads will foster a love of reading, thinking and speaking about books amongst your pupils.

CONTENTS

Teaching Resources 3 Black Flag – Picture Books for Younger Readers 4 Black Flag – Picture Books for Older Readers 5 Purple Flag – Reading Level 5+ 6 Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+ 7 Poetry 8 Red Flag – Reading Level 8+ 9 Leabhair Gaeilge 10 Design a Cover Competition 11 Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ 12 Bringing History to Life 16 Themes 20 Accelerated Reader™ 23

O’Brien Press books are colour-coded with reading age flags. This guide indicates which flags are most appropriate for different class levels, to support you in choosing the right book for your students.

Reading age flag

Republic of Ireland

Northern Ireland

Black flag Picture books

Usable throughout the school (but especially Junior Infants)

Usable throughout the school (but especially Year 1 [P1])

Orange flag Reading level 4+

Senior Infants (also First Class)

Year 1 [P1].

Key Stage 1

Purple flag Reading level 5+

First Class (also Senior Infants, Second Class)

Year 2 [P2].

Key Stage 1

Yellow flag Reading level 6+

Second Class (also First Class, Third Class)

Year 3 [P3].

Key Stage 1

Red flag Reading level 8+

Third Class, Fourth Class

Year 4, Year 5 [P4, P5]. Key Stages 1 & 2

Blue flag Reading level 10+

Fifth Class, Sixth Class

Year 6, Year 7 [P6, P7]. Key Stage 2

Green Flag Reading level 12+

First Year, Second Year (secondlevel schools)

Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 (secondary schools). Key Stage 3

Young Adult Books

Older and more confident readers

Older and more confident readers

Where Can I Find O’Brien Press Books?

1. BOOKSHOPS AND SCHOOL SUPPLY CENTRES: they all stock our books. If they do not hold a given title in stock, just ask, and they will be delighted to order O’Brien Press books for you.

2. THE INTERNET: There are lots of other choices online, such as books.ie, thebookdepository.com and amazon.co.uk, as well as education sites such as schoolbooksireland.ie, easonschoolbooks.com and schoolbooks.ie.

Or you can buy directly from obrien.ie.

3. SCHOOL AND PUBLIC LIBRARIES: All school and public libraries should have O’Brien Press books. If they do not have a title you’re looking for, they can order it for you. (If you do not have a school library, use our guide to setting one up: see obrien.ie/school-library.)

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4. BUYING DIRECTLY: Orders can be placed by post, telephone, fax or e-mail: The O’Brien Press, 12 Terenure Road East, Rathgar, Dublin 6 D06 HD27, Ireland Tel: +353 1 492 3333; Fax: +353 1 492 2777; E-mail: schools@obrien.ie Discounts: a discount of 10% and free postage is available on all class sets bought directly.

Higher discounts are available for bigger orders.

Front cover illustration

by Steve McCarthy from A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, Sea. See page 4.

Teaching Resources Title Here

Available FREE from obrien.ie TEACHING GUIDES

Are you choosing a new novel for your class? Or perhaps you are using O’Brien Press novels already. O’Brien Teaching Guides provide detailed suggestions for getting the most out of your chosen novel, with plot summaries, activities, discussion points and more. Teaching Guides are available for many O’Brien Press books, and more are being added all the time. obrien.ie/schools/teaching-guides

Friend or Foe

member of the Irish Volunteers.

The conflict divides the city and her people, setting friends and family against each other.

However, some bonds refuse to be sundered; in the maelstrom of battle, the links of friendship endure.

Some of the themes explored are: Courage Friendship Loyalty Responsibility Identity Integrity

SUMMARY

The Ellesmere gang – Emer, Jack, Ben, Gladys and Joan, five young friends who are a microcosm of prosperous Dublin society in the early years of the 20th Century – are swimming in the River Tolka.

When Emer, a strong swimmer, rescues Jack from drowning, an unbreakable link is forged between them.

People are a very important part of any story and many people important people have contributedJOE to Ireland’s Story. Research someone who has made a contribution to the history of your own area.

ISBN 978-1-84717-173-3 pb

O’BRIEN

The Sportswriter’s Manager of the Month: May

By PETER HEANEY Detective Diarmuid has some advice to help you get started ...

“Look for clues in the names of the streets or buildings in your local area. Are any of them named Mick Wilde has been nominated as one after someone? Is there a local park named after someone? Theseofare goodforplaces to start ” theusually contenders the Sportswriter’s SPORTSWRITER’S MANAGER OF THE MONTH: MAY

Danny ’s Hidden Words Help Danny to find these words in the box below

Explain any strange characteristics the new plant has as well as describing what it looks like. Will your plant be friendly or dangerous? Try to give as much detail as you can

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Use the box to the side to draw a picture of what you think the plant will look like and write your description in the box below. Don’t forget to give the new plant a name.

A DESCRIPTION OF ALFIE’S NEW PLANT ...

By Peter Heaney. Based on the Alfie Green books by Joe O’Brien. © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie

Féile Fever

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Write a description of a new plant that Alfie has discovered. Give it a name and explain what type of soil it likes and what kind of weather conditions it prefers.

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Award of Manager of the Month.

In order to make sure that they are being YouMonster might prefer to choose someone who is not very well known. They may even be still living. If fair, the sportswriters try to score the this Bury is so then it would be a great opportunity to write to them and askcontender’s them some skillsgood againstquestions. a set of agreed skillsabout that they thinkyou are have Picnic When you have chosen the person you want to research, you will needcommon to think why important for a manager to have.

Loothem and what effect you think that their contribution has made. chosen Write a short description of There are five common skills that they Fetch the person you have chosen and the reasons you selected them in the boxes below. will score each manager on and then

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By Peter Heaney. Based on The Story of Ireland by Brendan O’Brien. © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie

Emer’s uncle and aunt in Monasterevin invite the friends to stay overnight in their house. Jack, unable to sleep, hears voices downstairs talking about a consignment of ‘supplies’; knowing that Emer’s uncle is a nationalist, he guesses that they mean guns. He decides to follow the men and sees them unloading explosives into a warehouse. He recalls Emer’s argument that the British government has turned a blind eye to the arming of the loyalist Ulster Volunteer Force, therefore it’s only fair that the other side has some guns as well – and he decides to keep the secret.

Back to Easter Monday, the day the armed revolution begins. As he leaves to meet the other Volunteers, Emer’s dad insists that she and her mum take a train to Ennis to stay with relatives and avoid the danger in the capital. However Emer is determined to be involved and manages to slip away from her mother and remain in Dublin.

Emer disguises Jack as a member of the Fianna and escorts him to the South Dublin Union, where they manage to rescue his father.

Eventually the Volunteers surrender and life returns to normal. However, the fate of the nation has been changed irrevocably by the events of Easter week, 1916.

APPROACH This story is very lively, and the characters are easy to relate to. Friend or Foe considers important events in Irish history that are pertinent to our national sense of identity and relevant as the centenary of 1916 approaches.

Small-group discussion can be used to widen understanding and identify myths by rehearsing views identified in the Discussion Points. The activities relate easily to PSHE/PDMU and will facilitate a collaborative approach to the novel.

This guide has divided the book into four parts to accommodate the development of the story and students’ understanding of historical events.

Unit 1 Prelude Pages 7–61

Emer offers to help the rebels and is tasked with delivering a message to the GPO. Caught by British soldiers, she narrowly escapes with her life. Back home that night, she meets Jack. He pleads for her

SUMMARY

Emer Davey, a runner for the rebels in the Irish Volunteers, flees capture through a hail of British bullets.

RATIONALE & THEMES The Ballybreen Terriers under-12 hurling team has collapsed spectacularly. They have lost seventeen games in a row, their bainisteoir has resigned and most of the team have quit.

Fintan’s Fifteen charts their return to glory, which is steered by determination, good humour and a restored belief in themselves.

Spurred on by the efforts of Katie, the Terriers’ number-one fan; Rusty, a Brazilian-born hurling enthusiast; and Fintan, a brilliant coach whose selfconfidence has taken a knock, the team gathers a multicultural phalanx of players with wide-ranging skills and interests in order to regain their place at the top.

The themes explored include: Bullying Determination Diversity Self-esteem Competition Sportsmanship Friendship Fairness Taking responsibility Loyalty

SUMMARY Raymond ‘Rusty’ Arantes, originally from Brazil, has been a member of the Ballybreen Terriers U12 hurling club for a year and a half. He loves his sport and his club, but now it seems that the Terriers are facing collapse after a succession of defeats, resignations and desertions.

Rusty and Katie ‘Dinger’ Bell, a majorette and the club’s most loyal supporter, are determined to keep the Terriers going.

Reminiscing over an old club photo, Katie points out Fintan Lonergan, an outstanding player who mysteriously retired (at age

Developed by resource teachers for reluctant readers, you can download and print these specialised activity sheets for free at obrien.ie/discovery-challenge.

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Nine months earlier, things were very different. When Emer and her friends in

Fintan’s Fifteen

ten) without explanation just prior to the decline in the Terriers’ fortunes. Rusty and Katie set off to attempt to draw Fintan out of retirement.

Hesitant at first, Fintan eventually agrees to become the team’s new bainisteoir (manager). He announces his return at a Poc Fada (long shot) competition, causing consternation to the Terriers’ bitter rivals, the Kilmore Killers.

Katie’s cousin Rory, who has never held a camán before, manages to draw with Fintan in the Poc Fada by virtue of his golfing skills. He is immediately invited to join the new and reformed Terriers.

As the Terriers continue to recruit players from other sporting disciplines, their confidence grows and their performance develops. They also realise how important it is to have fun on the pitch.

The Terriers secure a place in the final of the Lonergan Cup – a competition set up by Fintan’s grandfather and which still carries his family name – against the Kilmore Killers. Their rivals employ bullying tactics to try to win, and their bainisteoir attempts to steal the trophy, which only he knows contains a valuable jewel.

When Fintan is forced to take to the field on finals day, the Killers wilt under the galvanised determination of the Terriers, and the Lonergan Cup goes to the worthy winners.

APPROACH This is an enjoyable and entertaining read that tackles the sensitive topics of bullying, sportsmanship and gamesmanship in an accessible way. It is easy for the reader to identify with both the characters and the issues.

The book uses comic strips and illustrations as well as the standard textual narrative.

This multimedia style adds a unique dimension to the story and helps to deliver the messages in a positive way.

The story is a valuable prompt to the insidious impact of bullying. It creates an effective platform for discussion in class or small groups.

The themes relate easily to PSHE/PDMU requirements.

This guide has divided the story into two sections, and the activities offer suggestions for developing its major themes.

Section 1 The Dust of Defeat pp5–57 SUMMARY Brazilian Raymond ‘Rusty’ Arantes bemoans the impending collapse of the Ballybreen Terriers U12 hurling club after their seventeenth consecutive defeat.

In school, listening to the legend of the first hurler, Cú Chulainn, Rusty had imagined himself imitating his hero with a camán and sliotar. But that was eighteen months and seven bainisteoirs ago, and now a clubhouse spat between the Terriers’ goalie and left-winger results in the current manager and half of the team walking out – for good.

Left directionless and unable to field a team, Rusty, Katie and the few remaining players (along with the Terriers’ mascot, Ollie the dog) must come up with a plan to keep the team together.

Katie and Rusty agree that they must enlist the help of a new bainisteoir to reverse the Terriers’ decline. Looking at an old team photo, Katie tells the story of their erstwhile star player, Fintan Lonergan, and his sudden and unexplained resignation

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Teaching Guide

Teaching Guide

COVER GALLERY

THE STORY OF IRELAND Statues with a Story: Activity 1

A PICTURE OF ALFIE’S NEW PLANT

Emer’s parents warn her not to talk about the family’s nationalism in front of Jack, in case he reports back to his dad. Jack, too, finds that his contact with Emer is closely scrutinised. But they agree to stay friends despite their differences.

Friend or Foe

teachers for teachers, with the primary school curriculum in mind. Ideal for classroom use, with puzzle pages, suggested activities, language-development and visual-arts activities and much more. obrien.ie/activity-sheets

Alfie has discovered many unusual plants in Arcania. They are often similar to plants we have here in our own world but don’t be fooled – some of them have very strange characteristics indeed!

By Peter Heaney help in rescuing his father, who is being held captive by the Volunteers. Emer’s own father has been injured in the fighting too, and she knows how much it hurts.

She decides to help Jack.

DIFFERENTIATED RESOURCES But political tensions are sharpening in Ireland. When the friends meet a group of rebels who are secretly training in the mountains above Dublin, it highlights the differences between Jack, whose father is a policeman, and Emer, whose father is a

HUNDREDS of FREE activity sheets, created by

ALFIE GREEN: A STRANGE NEW PLANT

Teaching Guide

Teaching Guide

Jack’s mother is devastated by a telegram informing her that her nephew, a soldier with the British Army, has been injured on the Western Front. When Jack’s classmate Phelim makes a spiteful comment about his cousin’s injury, Jack explodes with rage, splitting the lip of the much bigger boy. But the repercussions are not as severe for Jack as he had anticipated – his father accepts that he was provoked.

ISBN 978-1-84717-253-2 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-657-8

Alan Nolan

By Peter Heaney RATIONALE & THEMES The Great War rages on in Europe, and many Irish families fear for the safety of their loved ones fighting in the trenches of Belgium and the Dardanelles. Meanwhile, back home, nationalist fervour swells to a bloody climax with the revolution of Easter 1916 in Dublin.

Easter Monday, 1916: our story opens with Emer running down a Dublin street, dodging English soldiers’ bullets and desperately trying to make it around the corner to safety. Unsure of her fate, we are then taken back to the previous summer.

ACTIVITY SHEETS

Fintan’s Fifteen ISBN 978-1-84717-631-8 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-755-1

Brian Gallagher

each sportswriter is allowed to include one extra skill that they think is important

WHY I HAVEtoo.

CHOSEN THIS PERSON

In order to be as fair as possible, they usually ask some of the team players or supporters to complete a nomination form and you have been given the opportunity o complete a nomination form for Mick.

Nomination form Name: MICK WILDE Team:

LITTLESTOWN CROKES G.A.C.

SKILLS

SCORE OUT OF 10

EVIDENCE

TEAM PERFORMANCE

KNOWLEDGE OF THE GAME

TEAM MOTIVATOR

Under each heading you will need to give a score out of 10 and provide evidence for your assessment.

(You can include page numbers and a description of what Mick has done.

Remember; the sportswriters will be suspicious if you award 10/10 for every section… you will need to provide good evidence…)

You will need to work in groups for this activity. Perhaps different people in the groups could read different sections of the book to find evidence?

When you have finished; the whole class could discuss the scores that the groups have given under the headings and compare them. Each of the groups could then explain their score and the reasoning behind why they awarded the score.

You can use the nomination form on the following page:

ORGANISING SKILLS

TACTICAL SKILLS (How did he use his players) ABILITY TO THINK UNDER PRESSURE

An innovative way of introducing your class to creative visual arts, cultural diversity and language development. To view our incredible range of covers from Irish and foreign editions, go to obrien.ie/cover-gallery.

WRITER’S CHOICE OF SKILL

TOTAL SCORE Write one sentence to describe why Mick should be Manager of the Month

Based on the Danny’s Smelly Toothbrush by Brianóg Brady Dawson © Copyright reserved.The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie

THEMES BILLEOGA SAOTHAIR

Billeoga saothair bunaithe ar na leabhar SOS: Fíor nó Bréagach, Aimsigh na Difríochta, Deir Ó Grádaigh, Rabhlóga … obrien.ie/billeoga-saothair

POSTERS, BOOKMARKS & DISPLAY MATERIAL

E-mail marketing@obrien.ie today and we’ll send you a selection of colourful posters and bookmarks to brighten up your classroom or school library, completely FREE!

At O’Brien Press, we realise that teachers need adaptable and versatile resources when choosing and using books in the classroom. That’s why we’re giving you an in-depth list of the different THEMES and TOPICS covered in our books, at all of the different class and reading levels, completely FREE! This unique thematic breakdown offers help and advice when selecting a book or novel, and enables you to get the most out of O’Brien Press books in the classroom. obrien.ie/schools/themes

YOUR SCHOOL LIBRARY

Get great advice and suggestions on setting up and maintaining a fantastic library in your school.

FREE at obrien.ie/school-library

ACCELERATED READER™ READING PROGRAMME AT O’BRIEN PRESS

Check out our fantastic teaching ideas based on over eighty real novels and make O’Brien Press books work for you. Enter your keyword search today at obrien.ie/reading-programme to find out more.

Is your school participating in the Accelerated Reader™ (AR™) programme? If so, we’ve made life easier for you at O’Brien Press. A number of our books have been quizzed and assigned an AR™ rating, to help you and your students choose books at appropriate readability levels for them. You’ll find a full list on page 23.

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Black Flag – Picture Books for Younger Readers We’ve got you covered for the New Primary Language Curriculum with O’Brien Press Picture Books! Base your successful oral language lessons on quality resources, stunning visuals, vibrant characters and suspenseful plot lines.

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Owls and pussycats, cockles and mussels, golden stockings, wiggly worms and rattlin’ bogs – they’re all here, and more. A beautifully illustrated collection of rhymes, poems and songs to delight any child, from the author and illustrator of Sally Go Round the Stars.

Praise for Sally Go Round the Stars: ‘evocative and funny … delightful’ Irish Examiner ‘a cracker’ The Late Late Toy Show

NEW

Mr Wolf loves looking good. Mr Wolf loves to dance. But more than anything in the world, Mr Wolf loves his beautiful socks. Until one day, a hole appears in one … What can he do? Follow the rather dapper Mr Wolf on a woolly adventure around Ireland as he tries to save his socks.

White Raven 2016: International Youth Library Winner Children’s Book of the Year 2015 ( Junior): Irish Book Awards (shortlisted)

Fiona is on a mission. She must stay on the path her Mam has drawn, passing Dublin’s most famous locations on her way to Granny’s house. However, Fiona often gets delayed, so you and your pupils will meet a host of colourful fairytale characters along the way!

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‘Granny is sick,’ said Mam. ‘She needs her special witches’ brew to make her feel better.

Will you go to the witches’ market on Moore Street and buy the things she needs to make it?

Then you can take them to Granny’s house.’

‘Take this map and follow the path I’ve drawn on it,’ Mam said, ‘Don’t get delayed along the way. If anyone tries to talk to you, just tell them that you’re in a hurry.’

Black Flag – Picture Books for Older Readers

Follow Molly, her parents and her cat Mipsy on their journey, in this gorgeous picture book that is sure to promote lots of discussion in your class.

Real Resources for Oral Language Development Picture books are not just for younger children. A wellchosen book can promote critical thinking and encourage real talk and discussion in older classes too. These lavish large-format books will enhance engagement of your pupils, and provide an excellent resource for fostering joint attention and reflective dialogue in your classroom.

SPRING 2018

CBI Book of the Year 2016: Merit Award for Illustrations

Every infant class will adore this quirky, illustrated book exploring Dublin Zoo. NEW

Give him a tin whistle and Brendan the leprechaun can make the sweetest sound, but ask him to speak and his words spill out in a terrible jumble.

Could kissing the Blarney Stone answer all his problems, and give Brendan the ‘gift of the gab’?

Your students will adore these loveable leprechauns. Engaging stories and activity books for young and older readers.

Explore the theme of adventure with this gorgeous take on Gulliver’s Travels. In clear, accessible language, with intriguing illustrations, your students will enjoy predicting what happens to poor Gulliver next, discussing the inhabitants of Lilliput, and what they intend to do with him!

A book to be treasured, this collection of Oscar Wilde stories with striking, original artwork can be enjoyed in your classroom just as it is, or as a stimulus for amazing visual arts lessons.

'Both The Happy Prince and The Selfish Giant provide a considerable body of work in English, Drama and SPHE for senior classes' InTouch Magazine.

Stories of giants, dragons, fairies and princesses from Brittany, the Isle of Man, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. With large, accessible text and beautiful illustrations, you and your class can enjoy each tale individually or all in one sitting – we don’t mind!

Children’s Book of the Year ( Junior) 2014: Irish Book Awards (shortlisted)

Introduce your students to Brian and his band of brothers! Children love these visually stimulating texts, which are exciting and silly in equal measures. They’ll also learn a little bit of history, as well as how smelly giants were, and how Brian always saved the day!

From the author of The Secret of Kells and Legendary Ireland comes a beautiful retelling of Irish folklore, accompanied by stunning visuals.

Each engaging legend takes 10–15 minutes to read, leaving plenty of time for reflection and discussion with your students about the story.

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Purple Flag – Reading Level 5+ Children love the quirky characters and funny, heart-warming stories at the Purple Flag level. With simple text and lively illustrations, these books are perfect for emergent readers who need an extra boost. They are also suitable for older, more reluctant readers.

Re-introducing Danny Brown

Now in full colour! These Danny Brown books introduce your children to a hugely popular character who is full of mischief. ‘fun and lively stories … bright and colourful illustrations’ Ireland’s Own ‘illustrated throughout in full colour, with a high proportion of picture to text, these lively and engaging stories are perfect for newly confident readers’ Parents in Touch

Danny Brown and the Talking Teeth Danny Brown is always in trouble. Why did he take Granny’s teeth to school? Just WHAT was he thinking? Now Mum is cross, teacher is cross, and Granny is VERY cross.

But Danny was only having fun, wasn’t he?

Danny Brown and the Monster Toothbrush Danny is delighted when his Mum tells him to put his toothbrush in the bin: he hates brushing his teeth! But then he discovers that his Granny has a brand new toothbrush for him! Danny sets out to destroy it through ever-more creative and inventive ideas. Danny’s toothbrush, however, is a lot more durable than he would like.

Panda Series & Teaching Resources ‘They are guaranteed to capture and sustain the interest of the emergent reader’ InTouch Magazine

Don’t forget that when you choose an O’Brien Panda, you get a whole teaching support package.

Our Activity Sheets are created for teachers by teachers, with the primary school curriculum in mind.

Our Reading Programme includes teaching ideas for 20 Panda books, all available for free online.

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Winner of Design A Cover Competition 2016/17 see page 11

This charming book tells the adventures of an outcast little black sheep: how he saved the whole flock in a snowstorm, put Polo the bossy sheepdog in his place – and gave the shepherd a great idea! A simple, memorable story about being different, and becoming a hero.

Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+ Yellow Flag books take your emerging readers in hand and combine lively, silly and engaging characters with beautifully penned illustrations to support them through their first books with chapters!

Have you got fans of Horrid Henry or Dirty Bertie in your class? The Mad Grandad books will be perfect for those children who love a bit of silliness teamed with hilarious characters that just keep getting themselves into trouble!

NEW

Grandad and Lenny are trying to paint the livingroom. But Grandad's paint is very old and it's gone all strange. Everything they paint comes alive. That’s when things start to go terribly, terribly wrong …

NEW

Lenny goes fishing with his grandad, and he is amazed when they drag up a mermaid in her car! But then they find there is much, much worse waiting for them in the deep and dirty river …

‘With a real sense of zany fun, is Oisin McGann’s Mad Grandad series.’

The Sunday Independent

Your students will love reading all about Lenny and his Mad Grandad’s humorous misadventures by awardwinning Irish children’s author and illustrator Oisín McGann.

‘With his big square glasses, bulbous nose and free-flying eyebrows, McGann’s Grandad is a truly original creation.

The illustrations, drawn from interesting perspectives, are imaginative and full of detail.’ Books Ireland

Alfie’s magical book gives him special powers and opens up a whole new, wonderful world. Read about his adventures with his friend Fitzer, his journeys to Arcania, and how Whacker Walsh just can’t get the better of him!

‘Alright,’ Alfie decided finally, ‘Right there, by the fuchsia bush.’

‘The what bush?’ Mr Green knew nothing about gardening.

‘Fuchsia, F-E-W-S-H-A, that bush with the red flowers that look like umbrellas.’

‘Oh, right.’

‘gorgeous books beautifully illustrated by Jean Texier. Perfect for six-to-seven-year-olds.’

The Sunday Independent

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Irish Children’s Book of the Year ( Junior) 2011 – Shortlisted These beautifully illustrated, heart-warming hardbacks are perfect for sharing in class or for independent readers.

‘It can be a struggle to find books that will engage six-to-eight-yearolds, but one sure to capture their imaginations is Gerry Boland’s debut, Marco Moves In.’ Sunday Independent ‘Such a loveable story, by the end you will wish you had a grizzly bear as a friend.’ Mad About Books

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Poetry Enhance your students’ oral language development through poetry – these books are a fantastic addition to any classroom and a great support for teaching the New Primary Language Curriculum.

‘A beautifully produced book to introduce younger readers to the joys of WB Yeats’ Connacht Tribune ‘An excellent collection to introduce to secondary age pupils studying the poet, as it shows a wider picture, and therefore offers a fuller understanding, than simply his poems. Including unpublished work, this gorgeous book draws on Yeats's preoccupation with magic, fairy lore, place, family and childhood; the stunning illustrations capture to perfection the mystical and magical tone that pervades the collection. A wonderful book.’ Parents in Touch

Sally Go Round The Stars

NEW

Irish Children’s Book of the Year 2011: Irish Book Awards (shortlisted) ‘I would be very happy to use this book … my class, senior infants, have really enjoyed learning some of these rhymes and listening to the memories their parents and grandparents have as a result … I think the individual pages … could start a really good art lesson where children have to illustrate a simple poem or text.’ seomraranga.com ‘There’s a great selection of long and short rhymes and it’s lovely to see so many distinctly Irish rhymes alongside the traditional Mother Goose collection. Steve McCarthy’s quirky and colourful pictures add to the pleasure of this book.’ Book Fest ‘A cracker’ The Late Late Toy Show

About the Author & Illustrator Sarah and Steve’s first book together for The O’Brien Press was Sally Go Round the Stars (with Claire Ranson). Their second offering, A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, Sea, is guaranteed to be an incredible, vibrant addition to any classroom library.

White Raven Selection Winner. Bisto Merit Award Winner.

Reading Association of Ireland Special Merit Award 2005.

‘The most marvellously produced piece of work I have seen in a long time. An investment – a brilliant book’ Robert Dunbar, Rattlebag ‘The range of subjects covered is extraordinary and every age group, from young children to adolescents will find something to engage their minds.’ Village Magazine ‘a sumptuous collection of new work by Irish poets. Like all the best anthologies, it offers poems that extend one’s definition of what the art can do, especially for children nine years old and upward …

This book should be in all schools where English (and Irish) is spoken.’

Fred Sedgewick, Times Educational Supplement

Free Teaching Resources Don’t forget the range of fantastic free teaching resources available for so many O’Brien Press books for children, including Something Beginning with P. 8

Red Flag – Reading Level 8+ Red Flag Books are perfect for your students who are gaining more confidence in reading alone. With short chapters, amusing characters and quirky illustrations, these series will definitely appeal to your 8- to 10-year-olds, and are a must for your classroom library.

Cass and her best friends Lex and Nicholas are the Bubble Street Gang! They investigate crimes, solve mysteries and have brilliant adventures. Check out a preview of the first book in the series, and a meet-the-author video, online at obrien.ie/the-clubhouse-mystery.

‘This is a hugely entertaining read, full of the kind of adventure that all children could see themselves having, and featuring a great cast of interesting characters …

There’s a great deal of fun and action packed into a short extent, and the chatty, direct voice McGann gives Cass keeps the pages turning nicely. Illustrations

by Vince Reid add to the appeal.’

Books for Keeps

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NEW

‘Cass is a real force of nature, lively, impulsive, never short of ideas or the nerve and determination to make them happen. The adventures she gets up to with Nicholas and Lex make great reading, and there’s a special role too for Lex’s equally enterprising granny; as much fun as having your own gang and clubhouse.’ lovereading4kids.co.uk

Free Teaching Guides written by Peter Heaney available online for The Clubhouse Mystery and Making Millions.

The Clubhouse Mystery

Book 2 in the Cass and the Bubble Street Gang series! The gang need money and quick, and they have some super-genius ideas on how to make it!

ISBN 978-1-84717-920-3 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-944-9

Erika McGann, Illustrated by Vince Reid Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney RATIONALE & THEMES

Several leads are identified and followed unsuccessfully before the truth is revealed and the culprits uncovered in a daring undercover operation.

Secrets are a speciality for Cass Okara and the other members of the Bubble Street Gang, her best friends Lex and Nicholas.

Embarking on a construction project, they build a secret clubhouse that would be the envy of the whole county, even the whole world were it not for the fact that it is a secret clubhouse and therefore no one except for the gang members must ever know of its existence never mind see or admire it.

APPROACH This is a very enjoyable and entertaining read. Although the plot is comic, it is an engaging read with many opportunities for discussion.

This guide has divided the story into three sections and the activities offer suggestions on developing the themes.

However, when telltale crumbs reveal that their secret has been compromised, they are forced to become detectives to uncover the intruders.

Section 1: The Secret Clubhouse Pages 9-48

Essentially a charming comic story, the themes are pertinent and include Friendship Peer pressure & control Insecurity Inter-generational relationships Rivalry & jealousy Conflict resolution Secrets Secret keeping Fairness Taking responsibility Loyalty

SUMMARY Driven by desperation to find a peaceful place removed from her younger brother and sister, Cass determines to build a secret clubhouse for the Bubble Street Gang, enlisting the help of Lex and Nicholas, the other members of the gang.

Buoyed by Lex’s enthusiasm and exasperated with Nicholas’s persistent questions, Cass adopts Lex’s grandmother’s suggestion for their secret location and they set off to conduct a survey.

When an un-co-operative bull bars access to their preferred site, forcing them to find an alternative access across an improvised plank bridge spanning a stream, Cass suggests this will help to deter curious strangers.

SUMMARY

White lies and invention are required as the gang tries to assemble the materials they will need for construction.

Frustrated and at the mercy of unwanted attention from her younger siblings, Cass, unable to find any peace at home, has the brilliant idea of building a secret clubhouse.

Cass manages to deflect her mother’s curiosity and convince her that the wooden panels she needs are really to build a rabbit hutch for a rabbit that Lex has recently acquired.

Enlisting the co-operation of Lex and Nicholas, the other members of the Bubble Street Gang, and with the encouragement of Lex’s granny, they identify a suitable site, source the materials and begin the construction.

When Nicholas suggests that the clubhouse might need a floor, Cass coaxes his reluctant participation in a school musical in order to procure a roll of green foam large enough to cover the clubhouse floor and provide him with a costume for the role of a grassy knoll in the play, leaving him incandescent with humiliation.

Overcoming every challenge, the secret clubhouse takes shape; Cass’s enthusiasm directing the efforts of Lex and Nicholas towards completion.

After the secret official opening of the clubhouse the gang barely have time to enjoy the comfort of their retreat before a suspicious trail of crumbs alerts them to the certainty that their secrecy has been breached.

DISCUSSION POINTS

Forced to deploy their detective skills, the gang search for clues that will identify the ‘cuckoo’ that has been sharing their secret nest.

The Clubhouse Mystery

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(Read p 9): Cass reveals that she has a secret and then proceeds to share it, so how can it still be a secret? What do you think a secret should be and how does it change as you reveal it to others? Are secrets always innocent or safe to keep? When do you think you should not keep a secret?

(Read pp 17 & 18): Cass and her friends are eager for adventure

Teaching Guide

‘The Forbidden Files are horror stories but with an eye out for fun and jokes.’ Books Ireland Color profile: Disabled Composite Default screen

Color profile: Disabled Composite Default screen

2 I Should Be On MTV Or Something

C

lutching the money, I ran down the street and across the main road to the new salon. I took

a long, long look at the poster in the window, buzzing with excitement, and then I pushed the door open.

The place was like something out of Mum’s magazines. It wasn’t that big, but it was really stylish, with huge mirrors, and everything was in wood and metal and curved plastic. There was one chair, which looked like it belonged on television. It had

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16 E:...Evil Hairdo.vp Tue Jul 11 10:29:15 2006

17 E:...Evil Hairdo.vp Tue Jul 11 10:29:18 2006

‘Thrilling plotlines and peculiar characters … An amusing read for more advanced readers in search of some revolting fun.’

Katelyn Romano, Bookfest

‘This humourous fast-paced book is filled with hilarious illustrations, short chapters, snappy sentences and lots of mischief. Will definitely appeal to boys and will encourage the most reluctant reader to read.’

CBI’s Bookfest – Recommended Reading Guide

‘The Poison Factory is operated by zombies making the vilest concoctions imaginable.’

Books Ireland

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Leabhair Gaeilge An enjoyable and practical way to learn the first essential words in Irish!

Age 6+ native speakers/Age 8+ others Hide and Speak Irish goes further than most picture word books. It offers an effective and simple way to learn over 130 key Irish words, following the tried-and-tested method of ‘look, cover and speak’. Using the two wipe-clean flaps at the back of the book to cover the words or the pictures, users can practise speaking or writing the words as many times as they want. Hide and Speak Irish is organised into fifteen popular themes, including farm, school, family, colours and food.

•• Wipe-clean flaps can be used over and over again •• Combines key words and picture prompts •• Contains an easy-to-use pronunciation guide •• Engaging, humorous full-colour picture spreads illustrate each theme

The second book in a vibrant and exciting Irish language series from The O’Brien Press for children aged 8+ (native speakers)/9+ (others).

SCÉAL EILE books build on the success of the SOS series for younger readers, and are perfect for developing Irish language skills in the classroom.

‘A good introduction to the language for children or adult learners.’ Evening Echo

Cluiche peile ag rang a sé.

Buachaillí in aghaidh cailíní.

‘Practical, simple and more fun for kids than it sounds!’ Books Ireland

Deir na múinteoirí nach bhfuil ann ach spraoi.

GLAC

Dar le hEoghan, áfach, tá i bhfad níos mó ná sin i gceist. Bród!

Onóir! Stádas na mbuachaillí!

Sraith leabhar do léitheoirí óga atá maisithe go hálainn.

Bealach fíorspreagúil í an tsraith seo leis an nGaeilge a shaothrú sa seomra ranga. Ais íontach í freisin do thuismitheoirí ar mhaith leo léamh na Gaeilge a chur chun cinn sa bhaile.

About the Author Scríbhneoir agus léachtóir í Áine Ní Ghlinn. Tá trí chnuasach filíochta foilsithe aici. Bíonn sí ag scríobh freisin don dráma teilifíse Ros na Rún ar TG4.

Also in this series: Éasca Péasca

Billeoga Saothair Le Gabriel Rosenstock Léaráidí le Alan Nolan Beirt chailíní agus beirt bhuachaillí, ceathrar a bhfuil misneach, fuinneamh agus samhlaíocht acu, sin iad na B ­ leachtairí duit. Níl aon rud is mó a thaitníonn leo ná cás deacair a réiteach!

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Tá torann aisteach aerach le cloisteáil i dteach duine de na bleachtairí. Cad atá ann in aon chor? An den saol seo nó den saol eile é? Pé rud é féin, ní ghlacfaidh na Bleachtairí sos ar bith go dtí go réiteoidh siad an cás!

Billeoga Saothair bunaithe ar na leabhair Sos; Fíor nó Bréagach, Aimsigh na Difríochta, Deir Ó Grádaigh, Rabhlóga …

D

Celebrating 10 years of the

and

Design a Cover Competition

When The O’Brien Press and Children’s Books Ireland came together 10 years ago to create this competition, we never imagined the day when we would be celebrating its 10th birthday! But after a decade of wonderful book cover designs from children all over the country, the Design a Cover Competition is as popular as ever.

Each year, we look forward to seeing all the wonderful (and sometimes weird!) entries from children at schools and libraries around the country, and we’re never disappointed!

This year, children will get the chance to illustrate author Joe O’Brien’s football adventure Tiger Boots.

The Crokes are doing well at football this season. But other things aren’t going as well in Danny’s life …

But between training, school and a fundraising football marathon, Danny and the Crokes might just make this a season to remember!

Design Me!

2016/2017 – Saoirse O’Reilly, Killeshandra, County Cavan

2015/2016 – Aisling McMahon, Newport, County Tipperary

2014/2015 – Shelagh-Jessica Gilbourne, Millstreet, County Cork

2013/2014 - Abigail Walker, Athboy, County Meath

2012/2013 – Nina Fitzgerald Graham, Dublin

2011/2012 – Alicia Premkumar, Carlow

2010/2011 – Adina McNulty, Ballina, County Mayo

2009/2010 - Sophie Courtney, Blackrock, County Dublin

2008/2009 - Holly Crowley Walsh, Ballinhassig, County Cork

Teachers!

Why not get your class involved this year? The Design a Cover Competition is open to primary school children of all ages.

This year’s winner gets to see their design on the front cover of Tiger Boots in bookshops all around the country!

Look out for details and entry forms on childrensbooksireland.ie or in your local library.

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Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ Blue Flag books offer a wealth of adventure, fantasy and historical fiction from award-winning authors. These are stories to love – stories of friendship and family life, of teamwork and good-natured competition. Many of these books have won awards, have been translated into several languages and are hugely popular with primary school students and their teachers.

Brings History to Life NEW

These powerful and engaging novels will help your students to see historical struggles first-hand. Perfect for your school library or as a whole-class novel.

‘Gallagher writes well evoking the period and the characters in an accessible and believable way. This is a great way to introduce children to history and bravely tackles a subject that many historians shy away from.'

Books Ireland

Johnny Dunne doesn’t want to return to the orphanage – even though he works long hours in Balbriggan’s Mill Hotel. But with the War of Independence raging, Johnny’s secret role – spying for the IRA on the Crown forces who frequent the hotel, puts him in danger. One wrong move could be fatal.

‘Provides a good historical account of a still topical subject in a style that will have young readers eagerly turning the pages to see what happens next …

Highly recommended.’ Bookfest

‘Gallagher is to be commended for deviating from the dominant narrative in his representation of the Rising … a refreshingly ambivalent reading of the Rising that will be welcome to anyone interested in Irish history.’

Children’s Books Ireland Recommended Reading Guide

Working-class Annie Reilly is thrilled to win a scholarship to Eccles Street School. Through a classmate, she meets Peter Scanlon, a student in Belvedere College. Peter sides with the rebels in the Civil War and carries messages for them. When Annie’s life is threatened, he has to decide where his loyalties lie.

r

‘One of Ireland’s finest authors of historical fiction for any age, and in our opinion criminally underrated … a consummate storyteller, the characters are brilliantly brought to life, the writing is perfectly pitched and the story rockets along.’ gobblefunked.com

‘A perfect accompaniment to historical studies’ Woman’s Way

Sakura Medal 2014: Shortlisted 'Will give readers insight into life during the Second World War and will appeal to readers of 10+ who enjoy mystery or historical fiction' School Librarian Magazine

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NEW

‘Confident and reluctant readers will be richly rewarded by the truly gripping climax.'

CBI's Recommended Reads 2012

Free Teaching Guides

Did you know there is a free teaching guide for each of Brian Gallagher's novels? Helping you to bring historical fiction into the classroom. All available online at obrien.ie/schools.

Friend or Foe

ISBN 978-1-84717-631-8 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-755-1

Brian Gallagher Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney RATIONALE & THEMES The Great War rages on in Europe, and

member of the Irish Volunteers.

Jack’s mother is devastated by a

help in rescuing his father, who is being held captive by

Animal lover and champion Irish dancer Samantha Hannigan is having a truly woof week. She and her best friend Ajay were messing around with the Brain Swap 3000, one of her grandad’s crackpot inventions, and now Sam is stuck inside the body of her neighbours’ dog – and it’ll be days before they can change her back!

How long can they pretend Sam is just dressing up in a dog costume for charity? Are her chances of winning the big dance competition scuppered? What’s going on behind closed doors at Roger Fitzmaurice’s dog-biscuit factory? And, um, why has Sam suddenly started to chew on slippers and bark at the moon?

Conor accidentally uncovers a prehistoric man who was flashfrozen in a block of ice, and life gets a bit too interesting! How long can Conor keep his huge, hairy (and rather smelly) new ‘uncle’ a secret from his mum, his teachers and a gang of ruthless scientists?

‘Humorous … suitable for children in the middle or senior classes … fantastic read.’ InTouch Magazine

Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ Sport Any sports fans in your class? These novels will be a fantastic addition to your class library and, with free online resources available, have the potential to be excellent whole-class novels or series of novels that will engage even the most reluctant of readers.

A fantastic rugby series that will thrill any rugby-mad youngster in your class!

Rugby

Haunting History – Thrilling Tries – The fifth book in the Rugby Spirit series.

Eoin Madden is captain of the Junior Cup team, training with Leinster and aiming for Ireland's Under 16 World Cup team. He also has to deal with grumpy friends, teachers piling on the homework – AND a ghost on a mission that goes back to the very origins of the game of rugby.

Books, crooks and rucks – it’s all to play for this term!

NEW

‘Thrilling rugby action plus ghosts plus mystery … the latest in Gerard Siggins’ Rugby Spirit series is typically filled with rugby action so vividly described that you feel you’re there on the pitch … the mix of on-pitch and off-pitch action with mystery and history is well handled and there’s lots to appeal to all readers, but particularly young rugby fans.’ lovereading4kids

Gaelic Football

Cluiche peile ag rang a sé. Buachaillí in aghaidh cailíní. Deir na múinteoirí nach bhfuil ann ach spraoi! Dar le hEoghan, áfach, tá i bhfad níos mó ná sin i gceist! Bród! Onóir! Stádas na mbuachaillí!

‘A hilarious new story and second in the Scéal Eile series; a fantastic new resource for schools, libraries and children across Ireland’ Primary Times ‘Bheadh an scéal seo oiriúnach do rang a sé (rang a ceathair i ngaelscoil) …’ InTouch Magazine

Follow Danny Wilde on and off the pitch in this fantastic sports fiction trilogy.

Féile Fever

ISBN 978-1-84717-173-3 pb

JOE O’BRIEN

Croke Park: Unesco World Heritage Stadium

By PETER HEANEY (Read chapter 5)

‘Will be enjoyed by all football fans … would encourage the reluctant reader in upper primary school … though mainly aimed at boys, there is enough to keep girls interested too’ Inis Magazine

The week after the visit to Croke Park, Principal Dunstan interrupts Mr Breen’s class with an important announcement: Croke Park has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Stadium!

If the judges accept the nomination, then Croker will be included on the list of the world’s ten most amazing stadiums.

As part of their nomination, Croke Park must include a report on a school visit to the stadium and since Mr Breen’s class were the most recent visitors, they have been asked if they would like to supply the school report section of the nomination.

Hurling It’s illustrated! It’s about hurling! We love it!

Sporting and non-sporting fans in your class will love this tale of triumph of the underdogs. A great book for exploring what it means to be on a losing team and how they might work together to win. It’ll keep your students in suspense until the very end! The Mighty Ducks meets GAA!

Danny and his friends are thrilled; however they are going to need your help to prepare their report.

You can find a lot of your information at museum.gaa.ie

Please keep your comments brief and use bullet points.

Stadium details Size / name Location Events

Over six free activity sheets and teaching guides for this series available online at obrien.ie/schools.

You can find more information on UNESCO World Heritage sites at whc.unesco.org/en/35/

Stadium History

UNESCO has sent a questionnaire for you to complete (right)

TO D D ’S I MPRESSI O N

Since Todd is from Australia and is new to the game, his opinions will be particularly interesting.

Principal Dunstan has asked him to volunteer to complete the personal impression section on the UNESCO nomination form.

Todd has decided to describe how the visit to the G.A.A. Museum has changed his opinions on Gaelic football; he needs a little help with writing the piece. Do you think you could help him?

Todd introducing himself and explaining how he came to visit the museum.

Todd describing how despite Danny’s encouragement he was not really interested in Gaelic sports.Todd describing the effect that watching the videos at the museum had on him.

Todd comparing Gaelic football to his beloved Aussie Rules game.

Impact Statement

(Does the stadium support) Schools

Cultural identity

Community involvement

(Does the stadium support) Women’s sport Disabled sport

Disadvantaged sport Youth sport

Your personal impression

Look carefully at the way Todd speaks … Do you think that you could write the piece in the same style? Use a separate sheet for Todd’s impression.

Soccer

Players have come and gone as well, but Paddy Fox and Jerome ‘Halfpint’ O’Reilly have been here as long as I have. I call Paddy ‘iPaddy’ because I’ve never seen him without his headphones on.

He’s always listening to music and can never hear what you’re saying. A bit of a drawback when you’re playing a match.

‘Despite not having the slightest interest in hurling, I thoroughly enjoyed this book … Alan Nolan uses a clever combination of story genre-text, cartoon and graphic novel to tell his story, which makes the overall experience of reading it very, very enjoyable.’ CBI Recommended Reads Guide 2014

Nomination form / Children’s response…

Free Teaching Guides You could include:

'a charming, well written sport-adventure story for readers of 8+ … sure to please any young GAA player' Irish Independent

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE STADIUM Thank you for agreeing to take part in the UNESCO nomination process.

Your views are very important and will be considered carefully when we make our final decision.

To help sort facts from opinions; could you please use a red pen only when you are writing an opinion?

The other person who’s been here as long as I have, even longer, is Katie Bell, AKA ‘Dinger’ Bell. She’s the team’s number one fan and cheers loudest at all the matches. In fact, she’s usually the only one cheering at our matches. She’s twirly-baton-style majorette for the Ballybreen Spinners and is clever and has a great smile and lovely brown hair and smells nice. Well, you get the idea.

1O

From the author of the Alfie Green and Danny Wilde series, here’s the perfect novel for young soccer lovers!

Charlie Stubbs has one passion in life – playing football. He’s been in top form all season – a scout from Man United has even been keeping a close eye on him … until tragedy strikes. Charlie and his family make a hurried move back to Dublin to mourn the loss of his beloved grandfather who, Charlie discovers, was a great soccer player in his day.

Charlie hears about the Legend’s Lair, and soon sets his sights on organising one more tournament on the legendary football ground.

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Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ NEW

Summer may be over but the Star Club is definitely not, and now it’s time to plan their next show! Meg has to get used to a new town and a new school. Luckily, her Star Club friends are there to support her. But will other people accept Meg for who she really is?

‘The second story in Natasha Mac a’Bháird’s lively new series is full of drama and will get rave reviews from readers … Mac a’Bháird captures all the fun, challenges and camaraderie involved in putting on a show while the background stories and everyday adventures of the four friends are equally convincing and enjoyable. Bravo!’ lovereading4kids

Waverton Good Read Children’s Award 2014 – Winner

‘This second Star Club adventure is full of excitement, fun and of course drama. It’s a perfect series for girls, full of friendship, fun and laughter.’

Parents in Touch

Hannah is stuck at home over the summer, babysitting her younger brothers and sisters. Boring! Until Meg moves in next door and, together with friends Ruby and Laura, the girls decide to form Star Club – a drama club of their own!

That is until disaster strikes, and Hannah finds herself torn between practising her acting skills and big sister duty. Or can she do both? This story, filled with fun and friendship, is a must-read for any drama-loving pre-teen!

Mollie Carberry’s life seems pretty dull, until she discovers her older sister Phyllis is a suffragette! When she and her friend Nora get involved, they must face the question of how far a girl should go for her beliefs.

‘An accessible diary-style account of the suffragette movement in Dublin in 1912 with some remarkable contemporary parallels.’ irishtimes.com ‘I loved this book because the plot intertwines everyday life, school problems and feminism to create a realistic portrait of an Irish schoolgirl in the early twentieth century … although many will promote this novel to a female audience, I would strongly recommend it to boys as well, because the story is about a significant historical period that changed society … an interesting historical novel, with a splash of girl power added for good measure.’ SuffolkLibraries.co.uk

Free Teaching Guides Download the free teaching guide for this book by Aisling Hamill at obrien.ie/schools.

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‘Mollie’s world changes in ways she couldn’t have imagined as she discovers the lengths that women have to go to for their basic human rights. This book was a riveting read.’ Seomra Ranga ‘Best suited to challenge a sixth class to read historical fiction and to form political opinions and thoughts …’

InTouch Magazine (Rozz Lewis, Portlaoise ETNS)

… step right up, don’t be shy …

The latest instalment in this incredible magical series. Under cover of darkness, a carnival arrives on the green in the centre of Dunbridge. It doesn’t take long for Grace and her friends to discover it is cursed …

‘If you are looking for a quirky, exciting read with six strong female characters at the centre, then look no further.’ Gobblefunked

See author Erika McGann talking about her books at obrien.ie.

Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ Teachers, your students will love these books from Ireland’s favourite children’s writer.

NEW

Every girl’s favourite author!

The Time After Time series ‘Sensitive, hugely engaging novels about contemporary girls and the things that matter most to them: friends, family relationships, learning to be happy with who you are … Visiting the 1980s will have its plusses and minuses for 21st century kids: you can buy packets of biscuits for 20p but have to survive without mobile phones. There are lots of details older readers will relish: the shop that sells the biscuits has comics Mandy and Bunty on its shelves too; the girls are baffled – and amused – by the hairstyles and fashions … This is time travel that puts female relationships – mother/daughter, best friends – into the spotlight, in a book that is funny, sad and uplifting.’ Books for Keeps ‘An excellent read which explores the issues that face families, as well as exploring an age without today’s technology. Highly recommended.’ parentsintouch.co.uk

Judi Curtin is the best-selling author of the Alice and Megan series, the smash-hit Eva series and now the stunning Time After Time series. She has been nominated for the Irish Book Awards on numerous occasions.

‘Ireland’s answer to Jacqueline Wilson’ Irish Independent

In the latest instalment of the Time After Time series, our favourite time-travelling best friends decide to travel back to the 1960s and do their best to fix a terrible accident. This is an exciting story about time-travel, family, friendship and love that your students will adore!

Teaching Resources Loads of FREE teaching guides are available on obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today!

‘Delightful, gentle, clean fun … the author captures perfectly the true joy of girls’ friendships at this important age.’ CBI Recommended Reads 2016

The ‘Alice & Megan’ Series Judi Curtin Summaries and Discussion Points

By Peter Heaney

The Alice and Megan series

The Eva series

‘Girls and boys will warm to Judi Curtin’s funny stories about friendship …’ Sunday Independent

‘Funny, entertaining and a real page turner … this book raises two very topical issues, treatment of the elderly in nursing homes and the rights of immigrants, which could be explored after a class reading.’

InTouch

Alice Again

SUMMARY

RATIONALE & THEMES the The ‘Alice & Megan’ series deals with girls’ friendship and looks – in an amusing weather and light-hearted way – at how they the ups and downs of family life, problems friends, with friends, school and making new among other issues.

Megan’s friend best her and Alice personalities are complementary; Megan’s provide caution and Alice’s impulsiveness the perfect tension between their aspirations them and the reality that inevitably engulfs presents as each opportunity for adventure itself. her Throughout the series, Alice deals with and feelings about her parent’s separation while her efforts to come to term with this, loving Megan is dogged by the conflict of for her family dearly and feeling guilty wishing that they were ‘cooler.’ the Despite their friendship experiencing rejection and insecurities jealousies, of gamut the end as well as simple, light-hearted joy, in the girls discover that the bond between never them is stronger than anything and has really been in danger of breaking.

The themes include: Close friendship Jealousy Joy Rejection Independence Bullying Family break-up Acceptance Embarrassment

a broad Although each of the books offers scope of interesting issues and opportunities, of the series provides a seamless narrative with Megan and Alice’s friendship as it copes the challenges of family break-up, rejection and madcap adventures.

Alice Next Door The chronicle opens as family separation Alice forces Alice and Megan apart. When life moves to Dublin to live with her mum, for Megan becomes a storm of insecurity as she and she finds little comfort anywhere friend. tries to cope at school without a best day trip As a treat, Megan’s mum arranges a able to for them to Dublin and Megan is fuels spend the day with Alice, which only of her insecurity when she meets some

series Alice Again is the second book in the visiting and Megan’s mum has agreed to her days.

Dublin to stay with Alice for six whole the The girls have spent weeks planning reality, fun they plan to have together. The however, is somewhat different. that Megan finds Alice distraught, convinced her mum has a secret boyfriend.

Alice’s new Dublin friends.

Missing Alice however is very unhappy. devises Limerick, her dad and her friends she family. a plan that she hopes will reunite her visit to She is allowed to make a return Megan in Limerick and has little difficulty in persuading her to become an accomplice in her plan.

the She decides to disappear, hoping that shock will reunite her parents.

The novelty of surviving under Megan’s each of bed on a diet of pot noodles with the her parents believing that she is with other, tests their confidence and ingenuity hidden as the arrangements required to stay become ever more complicated. is inevitable. However, the five Discovery This teaching guide cover the first turn out to be less than they Alice consequences a achieves ever books in the series. The remaining two, scheme their and deal feared & Megan Forever and Alice to the Rescue, degree of success in the end. with with the friends’ first year in secondary is also school. Alice & Megan’s Cookbook available.

reunite Alice’s hopes that her family might – are in jeopardy and she persuades Megan her against her better judgement – to help him to identify the boyfriend and then drive away.

Their suspicions seemed to be confirmed mum, when they secretly follow Alice’s Veronica, to her rendezvous with ‘Norman’.

Alice creates a series of increasingly desperate diversions to frustrate their liaison, climaxing date; when she and Megan gatecrash a coffee Jamie, with her hyperactive young brother, in tow. that Alice’s mission to convince Norman Veronica’s children are uncontrollable been succeeds and after Jamie has to spectacularly sick, Alice and Megan return the flat to clean him up and await Veronica’s return.

When Veronica returns the exchange peals of becomes surreal as she collapses in laughter at Alice’s denunciation of Norman as her boyfriend. and She reveals that he is her life coach new has been helping her adjust to her circumstances. and her Alice Megan quietly retreats to allow order mum to talk about how they feel and is eventually restored. returns Exhausted and drained, Megan she to Limerick. The following weekend

Teaching Guide

1

The ‘Alice & Megan’ Series

The Outfit

Don’t Ask Alice

by Judi Curtin

Activity by Peter Heaney

ISBN 978-1-84717ISBN 978-1-84717-379-9 023-1 ISBN 978-1-84717-023-1 /eBook

(Read pp 18-30)

from a very fashionable shop has just won a voucher for 250 euro the confirmation day and her dad You could use the Internet or Megan and her mum need outfits for your mum for a budget of 400 euro? could get an outfit for yourself and in Limerick. Do you think that you your mum / older sisters. of clothes in the shops near you with catalogues. You could check the prices chosen on Megan and each other. Draw the outfits you have sure the outfits and colours compliment You could choose a theme to make the items and give the prices. describe to boxes the use and her mum, My Outfit Item

Mum’s Outfit Item

‘The author’s portrayal of bullying is realistic and sensitive, and may well be of help to a child who is dealing with a similar situation of isolation.’

Inis Magazine

Price

Price

Total price Total price

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Bringing History to Life We have a wealth of novels for young people based on historical events that can be easily integrated into your planning for SESE. For a full list of over forty children’s historical fiction titles available from The O’Brien Press, go to obrien.ie/schools/historical-fiction.

Children’s Book of the Year 2008 Reading Association of Ireland Award 2009

A spectacular tour of Ireland’s history for younger readers, which we’ve made even easier for you to use in your classroom.

Check out all the innovative new teaching resource materials now available FREE from obrien.ie/the-story-of-ireland.

Over 25 resources are available, including History Detectives, Saints and Pagans, The Celts and lots more.

S

Historical Fiction 1700s A fictionalised account of the life of James Lovett, son of Lord Dunmain, set in 1730s Dublin and colonial America.

This is a fast-paced and intriguing story of adventure, friendship, mystery and survival against the odds. With a great cast of bandits, slaves and cruel and dishonest landlords, in a rich historical setting, this will appeal to students and teachers alike.

Battle of Clontarf 1014 A thrilling tale of magic and warfare in Norman Ireland. April 1014. Dubliner Elva watches helplessly as her sister comes under the control of an evil queen. Dara marches towards the city as part of Brian Boru’s army, while Skari sails from the Orkneys to fight with King Sitric of Dublin. The armies come ever closer to each other, and no one knows what will happen when they meet to fight what has been called the last battle.

Siege of Derry 1689 Derry. 1689. The city’s inhabitants resist all attempts by King James’ men to storm their gates. Outside, the soldiers reckon the only effective weapon they have left is to starve them out ...

‘Hooked me in from the first page and I think it would be very suitable for fifth and sixth class. Though the protagonists are male, I think female readers would also enjoy this universally relevant piece of historical fiction.’

InTouch Magazine

Battle of the Boyne 1690 Two kings: King James and King William One country: Ireland The aim: to take control It is 1690, and the battle draws ever closer …

Another engaging novel from Nicola Pierce that will be perfect for use in the classroom.

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1

The Great Famine

Children of the Famine Trilogy

Ground-breaking, award-winning novels that take the reader into nineteenth-century Ireland. Under the Hawthorn Tree (also available in Irish as Faoin Sceach Gheal) is set during the Famine and follows three children, led by Eily, the eldest, on a trek to find family in a desolate landscape. Wildflower Girl follows Peggy’s emigration to America. Fields of Home focuses on Michael, working in a big house as tensions rise and revolution is in the air.

‘Vividly brings history to life for its readers …

A hugely involving tale …’ Mad About Books

There are lots of author interviews, readings and other video resources available on obrien.ie.

Teaching Resources With detailed summaries, a unit breakdown, discussion points, activities and group activities, our teaching guides are created by teachers for use in the classroom.

'Pierce relays the intensity and viciousness of the decisive battle in Irish History almost as if she were there herself.' County Derry Post Blood Brother, Swan Sister

ISBN 978-1-84717-567-0 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-651-6

Eithne Massey Teaching Guide

By Liz Morris RATIONALE & THEMES Set in the days leading up to Good Friday 1014, this novel tells the story of the Battle of Clontarf through the eyes of

monasteries. Like Sitric, he has promoted prosperity and an enlightened tolerance among his subjects. Vikings have now been in Dublin for over two hundred years and

APPROACH For the purposes of this exploration, the novel has been divided into four units, though clearly the pace at which the

Bringing History to Life Suffragettes 1912

The Titanic 1912 Mollie’s boring, middle-class existence is shaken when she finds a stash of leaflets demanding votes for women. Her sister Peggy has joined the suffragette cause!

Mollie and her friend Nora begin by sneaking into meetings, but ultimately end up facing the question of how far a girl should go for her beliefs …

A fantastic novel with strong female protagonists that would be ideal for use in the classroom.

Journey on board the ill-fated Titanic in this thrilling adventure The ghost of fifteen-year-old Samuel Scott moves restlessly aboard the Titanic as she sails to her doom in 1912. An eyewitness to the final days in the lives of rich and poor, crew and passengers, this is Samuel’s story …

'a riveting read … important and thoughtprovoking' Seomraranga

1913 Lockout When Liam, a poor eleven-year-old boy, and Nora, a rich ten-year-old girl, meet at a Feis Ceol, an unlikely bond is formed – a bond that leads to a friendship spanning the deeply divided city that was Dublin in 1913.

‘Provides a good historical account of a still topical subject in a style that will have young readers eagerly turning the pages to see what happens next ... Highly recommended’ Bookfest

Big Jim – Graphic Novel On 26 August 1913, the trams of Dublin stopped. Over the next four months, James Larkin would lead the workers of Dublin against William Martin Murphy and the Employers Federation, in a conflict that would change the face of Irish society.

1913: Larkin’s Labour War – Graphic Novel Low-paid workers, under the leadership of Big Jim Larkin, organised themselves into unions to insist on better conditions.

The business world retaliated by locking them out of their jobs without pay … how long could they hold out?

‘… my eldest son loved graphic novels and flew through them. And these books explained (in colourful detail) Irish history that he needed to know about, for school and for life. This latest one, 1913 Larkin’s Labour War which I found in the library last week is his favourite of the lot.’ onthestripeycouchonasaturdaymorning.blogspot.ie

‘I was captivated by the writing and I couldn’t put it down ... The book is beautifully produced – the cover making it look like an artefact from the time with delicate illustration and patterned design by Dave Hopkins while Emma Byrne reproduces tickets, menus and telegrams throughout the book.’ NI4Kids

1914 The year is 1914, and Amelia Pim will soon be thirteen. There are rumours of war and rebellion, and Dublin is holding its breath for major, dramatic events.

But all that matters to Amelia is what she will wear to her birthday party ...

‘Hello, I read this book in school it is very fantastic. I love this book because I think Amelia learns that wealth doesn’t matter.’

Ciara, 4 May 2010

Lusitania 1915 In May 1915, the ocean liner Lusitania sails from New York. It is rumoured to have spies on board. Thirteen-year-old stowaway Finbar Kennedy finds works as a deck-hand. He begins to understand what’s happening, but there’s nothing he or the crew can do. Then a torpedo from a german submarine hits ...

‘An excellent read for girls and boys alike.

And I’m sure there are bits of history adults will meet for the first time too.’

Our Book Reviews

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Historical Fiction Easter Rising 1916

Bring the 1916 Easter Rising and its aftermath to life for your students!

It’s 1916, but Amelia Pim’s thoughts are on Frederick Goodbody and not on the war in Europe. Then Frederick enlists. The pacifist Quaker community is shocked, but Amelia is secretly proud of her hero …

Bisto Book of the Year: Eilís Dillon Prize

It is 1916, and Europe is at war. From the poverty of the Dublin slums, twelve-year-old Jimmy Conway is pulled between the British Army and the rebels in the Easter Rising. Real history seen through the eyes of a child, from a master storyteller.

‘A stirring account of the Easter Rising’ Mad About Books

Ir

When Emer Daly saves Jack Madigan from drowning, it seems that the two children will be friends for life. Eight months later, however, they are on opposite sides in a life-and-death struggle, as Dublin city is torn apart in the Easter Rising. With their young lives in turmoil, what will come first – friendship, family or loyalty to a cause?

From No.1 Best-selling children's author Brian Gallagher.

Blood Upon The Rose.

Easter 1916: The Rebellion That Set Ireland Free – Graphic Novel The Easter 1916 Rising: an unlikely band of freedom fighters – teachers, poets, writers, patriots, trade unionists – declare an Irish Republic. From this dramatic gesture, a nation is born …

The rebellion that set Ireland free, told as a graphic novel.

C War of Independence 1919

NEW

Be ready for the centenary of the War of Independence, with these great class novels.

Johnny Dunne doesn’t want to return to the orphanage – even though he works long hours in Balbriggan’s Mill Hotel.

But with the War of Independence raging, Johnny’s secret role – spying for the IRA on the Crown forces who frequent the hotel – puts him in danger.

One wrong move could be fatal.

A sequel to The Guns of Easter, this book tells the exciting story of elevenyear-old Sarah ( Jimmy’s young sister) and their family, who are involved in the spying activities of Michael Collins during the War of Independence.

Sarah, a strong rebel herself, cannot figure out why her family is so neutral towards the war, and why everybody is so secretive. Then she finds out the terrible truth – and she too carries secrets that could cost her her life.

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Six stories – one set in Dublin, the others in the countryside – about children who get caught up in the War of Independence and suffer dire consequences.

A fantastic collection of experiences that will bring the War of Independence and the Black and Tans to life for your students.

‘Excellent collection ... They will impel their readers towards new questioning as to what “war” actually is’ Robert Dunbar, The Irish Times

At War With The Empire: Ireland's Fight For Independance – Graphic Novel A graphic novel depicting the War of Independence, a gruelling guerilla war against British rule in Ireland that pitted brother against brother.

Irish Book Awards: Shortlisted for Best Irish-Published Book – 2012

T

Historical Fiction Irish Civil War 1922 Caught in the Irish Civil War, Katie has divided loyalties: her shell-shocked father fought in the First World War and wants peace, but others still want to fight for a united Ireland.

‘Well written and entertaining; it also gives an authentic historical perspective on the time’ The Irish Times

A girl. A boy. A nation torn apart.

Working-class Annie Reilly is thrilled to win a scholarship to Eccles Street School. Through a classmate, she meets Peter Scanlon, a student in Belvedere College. Peter sides with the rebels in the Civil War and carries messages for them. When Annie’s life is threatened, he has to decide where his loyalties lie.

Canada 1928 In 1920s Canada, a summer of fun for three friends is destroyed by a frightening crime. Almost a century later, teenager Ciara Farrelly visits her dead grandfather’s Ontario home and tries to solve the mystery surrounding it.

The Second World War 1939 Sophie and Hugh are left homeless when their house is bombed during the London Blitz. Their mother is seriously injured and their Dad is away fighting, so the children are sent to their grandfather in Ireland.

Free Teaching Guides

Don't forget to check out the free teaching guides for our historical novels online at obrien.ie/schools/teaching-guides.

The Second World War 1939 Sakuru Medal 2014 (Shortlisted)

When her home is destroyed in the 1941 Luftwaffe bombing, Grace Ryan moves in with relatives. There she meets Barry Malone, a boy from Liverpool. Barry begins to suspect their teacher, Mr Pawlek, of spying for the Nazis. But what starts as an exciting adventure puts their very lives in danger.

Bisto Book of the Year Award Winner 2000

Two Jewish children are sent from Nazioccupied Austria to a refugee farm in Northern Ireland. Will they ever see their families again? Based on the true story of Millisle refugee farm in Ards, County Down.

When Hetty’s family move to Martin Street, near Portobello bridge in Dublin, they’re not sure of their welcome. And next door, Ben’s family are not sure about their new Jewish neighbours: it’s the Emergency, and they are suspicious of strangers.

‘In its treatment of the threat of deportation and ethnic loyalty and prejudice, it touches in a gentle humane way on themes that are still very relevant today.’ Sunday Independent

Imagine being ordered to leave school to fight the terrifying Nazis in WWII. Imagine you are right in the middle of a battle; it’s you or them – you have no choice. The battlefield is the city of Stalingrad, the pride of Russia. Germany’s Adolf Hitler wants the city badly, but Josef Stalin refuses to let go. So far, nobody has managed to stop the triumphant Nazi invasion across Europe. It all depends on one city – Stalingrad – her citizens, her soldiers and her children.

Civil Rights Movement 1969 New friends. Old differences.

Twins Dylan and Emma Goldman move from Washington to Belfast when their journalist father is sent to cover the turbulent early days of the civil rights movement. The complicated friendships prove life-threatening when the simmering tensions in Northern Ireland erupt into violence in the summer of 1969.

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Themes

Grandparents, Different Families, Same Love Why use O’Brien Press books in your school? O’Brien Press books are real books. Written as fiction for young readers, they help students in your school make real connections with the real world.

Why themes? We recognise that teachers have been using our books for many years, and this experience has informed our approach to using real books in the classroom. In response to requests from teachers, we have suggested some of the many novels dealing with themes of animals, adventure and school life. Don’t forget there are FREE teaching resources available for use with many of these O’Brien Press books. For a full list of themes and relevant novels for your class, please visit obrien.ie/themes.

Different Families, Same Love

With ‘Different Families, Same Love’ now recommended as an additional resource to teach SPHE and RSE, we thought we’d highlight some novels that might fit with this theme for inclusive schools and discussions around different family relationships.

Are you ready for Grandparent’s Day?

Grandparent’s Day will be here again before you know it! Prepare your class with some fantastic books from The O’Brien Press all about grandparents – wacky ones, invisible ones and the legacy left by absent ones.

10+

Rugby Series 10+ Sakura Medal 2014 (Shortlisted)

Eoin’s has just started a new school … and a new sport. Everyone at school is mad about rugby, but Eoin hasn’t even held a rugby ball before! And why does everybody seem to know more about his own grandad than he does?

The Eva Series New families

10+

Beyond the Cherry Tree

‘Brilliant story for rugby-mad youngsters ... its simple approach ensures it can be enjoyed just as much by those new to the game.’

Sunday Independent

Siblings/Adoptive parents

10+

The Moon King Foster families

Mad Grandad Series 6+ ‘With his big square glasses, bulbous nose and free-flying eyebrows, McGann’s Grandad is a truly original creation. The illustrations, drawn from interesting perspectives, are imaginative and full of detail.’ Books Ireland

10+

No Goodbye Parental strife

Anna’s Secret Granny 6+ Anna doesn’t have a real granny, so she draws herself one. Then her Granny steps out of the picture and comes to life!

Juliet’s Story 8+ On a holiday in France, Juliet hears lots of stories – from her grandmother and from the toymaker who sells wind-up animals on the quayside. Juliet wants to be a storyteller too, and when she embarks on a mission to rescue the little trout in the restaurant fish tank, she begins an adventure which turns into her very own story.

‘It is a celebration of the Irish art of storytelling.’

The Belfast Telegraph

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10+

Time After Time & Stand By Me Blended families

Themes Find more themes at obrien.ie/schools/themes.

Themes

Friendship & Bullying Friendship & Bullying

Perhaps you’re looking for a novel that will integrate well with the newly updated Stay Safe Programme, or you may be hosting a Friendship or AntiBullying Week in your school this term. These O’Brien Press books will lend themselves well to integration with SPHE, and provide a platform for discussion on the theme of Friendship/Bullying with your class.

NEW

NEW

8+

Cass and her best friends, Lex and Nicholas, are the Bubble Street Gang! They investigate crimes, solve mysteries and have brilliant adventures. They’ve even got their own secret clubhouse. These Erika McGann stories are full of fun, friendship and mystery, and your class are sure to love them!

‘A fun story filled with generous grannies, truth bending, and friendship … it’s a feel good read full of nostalgia of my own childhood clubhouse.’ Nayu’s Reading Corner ‘Cass is a real force of nature, lively, impulsive, never short of ideas or the nerve and determination to make them happen. The adventures she gets up to with Nicholas and Lex make great reading, and there’s a special role too for Lex’s equally enterprising granny; as much fun as having your own gang and clubhouse.’ lovereading4kids.co.uk

8+

Adam’s Starling tells the story of a nine-year-old boy who is finding life difficult.

At home, no-one has any time for him. At school things are even worse – a gang of bullies has singled Adam out for punishment. Life is becoming increasingly difficult for Adam. But then a scruffy little starling comes into Adam’s life.

This is Adam’s secret, his own special friend. But can Adam’s defend his small friend against the bullies? Will he find the courage he has needed all along?

‘A perceptive and very moving story which will resonate with many readers – bullies and the bullied. An excellent opportunity for discussion of this emotive subject.’ parentsintouch.co.uk ‘This story has tremendous potential for classroom use. An extremely thought-provoking book that would be an easy read for most 9- to 11-year-olds.’ Children’s Books in Ireland

NEW

10+

With the War of Independence raging, it’s hard to know who your friends are. Stella is pro-British, Johnny is pro-independence and Alice is somewhere in between, yet a friendship has developed between the three children. But Johnny’s secret role, spying for the IRA on the Crown forces, puts him in danger. And Stella and Alice have difficult decisions to makes – choices that threaten their lives, when the Black and Tans run amok during a murderous night of vengeance. A fast-paced, engaging novel about the power of friendship during the War of Independence, this would be perfect as a class novel for exploring a number of themes through historical fiction.

Children’s Book of the Year 2013 (Shortlisted)

When Eva and Kate find an old diary, they end up determined to right old wrongs! But they can’t spend all their time living in the past, as the present, too, is throwing all sorts of challenges at them …

But when the girls get together, they can handle anything!

‘Very readable, with lots of drama, and an entertaining sub-plot in which a couple of girls who’ve been bullying Kate get their come-uppance. I’d guarantee that girls who read it will be hunting out Judi Curtin’s other books when they put it down.’ booksforkeeps ‘With themes of friendship and honesty, this latest in the series pulls no punches … parallel storylines and some tough and at times grown-up issues.’

Children’s Books Ireland Recommended Reads Guide 2013

10+

Themes Find more themes at obrien.ie/ schools/themes.

21

Themes

Environmental Awareness & Care Environmental Awareness & Care We are all concerned with cultivating important values in our students, and fostering an appreciation of the interrelationships between living things and their environments. SESE and SPHE can easily be integrated into your English lessons with the following O’Brien Press additions to your classroom. Free teaching resources, guidelines and online video content to accompany these thought-provoking novels will help your students to become active agents in the conservation of the environment for future generations.

10+

Bisto Book of the Decade Winner

Back in print. One of the most popular Irish wildlife stories of all time. ‘Don’t forget,’ said the old fox, ‘if danger threatens, run with the wind …’ Hunted, trapped and harried, the foxes of Sinna search for ‘the secret of survival’, under the leadership of the elderly and blind Sage Brush.

O’Brien Press Cover Gallery

Different countries often put completely different covers on the same book, and many countries have very distinct styles which simply would not work in other parts of the world. We always enjoy comparing these, and asking ourselves what the covers say about the people they are aimed at around the world. Explore and compare these book covers with your class at obrien.ie/cover-gallery.

‘A wildlife winner for all ages’ The Sunday Independent ‘mesmerising … It’s an exciting and dramatic story which offers a real insight into nature.’

Parents in Touch About the Author Tom McCaughren has written fifteen books for children and young adults. His award-winning Run with the Wind series has been translated into twenty languages, including German, Swedish, Japanese, Korean, French, Dutch, Danish and Latvian.

Don't forget to check out the free teaching guides online at obrien.ie/schools/teaching-guides.

The Clubhouse Mystery

An adventure story set in the endless days of a freezing Arctic landscape, with a haunting presence in the form of the magnificent bowhead whales.

10+

‘I loved this book ... Family relationships are warmly drawn, and Siobhán Parkinson cleverly extends the book’s range to deal with environmental issues such as whaling and international intervention in indigenous ways of life. She can put both sides of the argument with heartfelt simplicity ... This is a good read for anyone over 10, but it would also be a good class reader as it sets out a clear ideal for world citizenship.’ The School Librarian 10+

Eva strikes up an unusual friendship with Kate while on holidays in rural Ireland. When they discover that a developer has bought Kate’s ‘Island of Dreams’ and intends to tear down the local natural habitat to make way for holiday homes, Eva helps to rally both the villagers and tourists to save a very special tree from the chainsaw.

Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney RATIONALE & THEMES

22

Several leads are identified and followed unsuccessfully before the truth is revealed and the culprits uncovered in a daring undercover operation.

Secrets are a speciality for Cass Okara and the other members of the Bubble Street Gang, her best friends Lex and Nicholas.

Embarking on a construction project, they build a secret clubhouse that would be the envy of the whole county, even the whole world were it not for the fact that it is a secret clubhouse and therefore no one except for the gang members must ever know of its existence never mind see or admire it.

APPROACH This is a very enjoyable and entertaining read. Although the plot is comic, it is an engaging read with many opportunities for discussion.

Rugby Runner

This guide has divided the story into three sections and the activities offer suggestions on developing the themes.

However, when telltale crumbs reveal that their secret has been compromised, they are forced to become detectives to uncover the intruders.

Section 1: The Secret Clubhouse Gerard Pages 9-48

Essentially a charming comic story, the themes are pertinent and include Friendship Peer pressure & control Insecurity Inter-generational relationships Rivalry & jealousy Conflict resolution Secrets Secret keeping Fairness Taking responsibility Loyalty

Enlisting the co-operation of Lex and Nicholas, the other members of the Bubble Street Gang, and with the encouragement of Lex’s granny, they identify a suitable site, source the materials and begin the construction.

Overcoming every challenge, the secret clubhouse takes shape; Cass’s enthusiasm directing the efforts of Lex and Nicholas towards completion.

After the secret official opening of the clubhouse the gang barely have time to enjoy the comfort of their retreat before a suspicious trail of crumbs alerts them to the certainty that their secrecy has been breached.

Forced to deploy their detective skills, the gang search for clues that will identify the ‘cuckoo’ that has been sharing their secret nest.

Teaching Guide

SUMMARY

SUMMARY

By Peter Heaney

DISCUSSION POINTS

APPROACH

of the themes are: and then proceeds (Read p 9): Some Cass reveals that sheexplored has a secret This story is fast-paced and lively, with to share it, so Loyalty how can it still be a secret? What do you think

The Making of Mollie

characters who are solid and relatable. The Rivalry a secret should be and how does it change as you reveal it to themes fit easily into PSHE / PDMU and will Sportsmanship others? Are secrets always innocent or safe to keep? When do you facilitate a discussion-based approach to the Friendship think you should not keep a secret? novel.

(Read pp 17 &Patience 18): Cass and her friends are eager for adventure Gamesmanship This guide has divided the story into three Frustration 1 Teaching Guide sections; the activities offer suggestions on developing the book’s major themes.

Anna Carey

The Clubhouse Mystery

SUMMARY

Teaching Guide

By Aisling Hamill Still basking in the glow of his participation Section 1 in the summer tournament at Twickenham, Leinster Interpro and with his AND place THEMES in the Leinster squad SUMMARY Home rule Pages 7–63 secure, Eoin Madden prepares to return to Religion The Making of Mollie is an epistolary novel, Castlerock College for a new term.

Opportunities a collection of letters, composed by Mollie SUMMARY for integration lie in the As the friend Castlerock friends areletters reunited, they subject areas of: History, SPHE, Geography, to her Frances.

These prove to Nursing his bruises from a may recent are excited to learn that source the IRFU will host Art and Music.

Several examples be be an invaluable primary of historical performance at a European tournament the U-16 World Cup.reader An interprovincial found in the teaching guide below. information for the as well as in London, Eoin has to forgo his mother’s competition will beinformation held to identify and providing in-depth on Mollie’s cooking to stay on his Leinster diet plan. He develop for thoughts the national ISBN 978-1-84717-886-2 Unit 1 charactertalent and her and squad, feelingsand on takes the opportunity to visit his granddad, the boys are determined to978-1-84717-942-5 get selected. eBook ISBN those around her. The conversation is onePages 9–88 Dixie, before he returns to boarding school sidedisasreunited we never read Eoin with his Frances’s ghost pal responses; Brian, and in Dublin. however through Mollie’s descriptive and SUMMARY diary style entries we form a solid impression Rugby Runner 25th March 1912 1 of her pen pal’s personality.

The Making of Mollie opens with a letter We meet Mollie at a critical point in her life. written from the perspective of the She is beginning to look outside herself and Peter Heaney protagonist herself, Mollie. We learn about reflect on her place as a young woman in her home life, her relatives and their unique society. Mollie sees the small injustices that off with a conjured perimeter storm. left, expecting the Danann to fall on ‘Carberry’ them clan dynamic. Mollie is the she encounters at the hands of men and however, it is with second wary youngest child in a family of four Gathering their resources, Ayla andsociety her inimmediately; general in 1912 and yearns for suspicion that they discover there ischildren. no She has an elder sister Phyllis, friends and uncles understand that change they and equality. Mollie’s sister Phyllis evidence of the Danann to be found. who is almost of college-going age. Harry, must face and defeat the Danann magic is an essential source of information and her brother, is two years Mollie’s senior. To again to rescue the village from their power Blending intoasthe of ordinary inspiration to Mollie she monotony uncovers her Mollie’s annoyance, Harry often behaves and restore normality. routine, they experience growing unease elder siblings participation in the growing as if he were her much older, much wiser at movement. their parents’Asbehaviour and the general Mollie uncovers Drawing on support both from the fewsuffragette who lethargy and disconnection they superior see in every single way. Mollie’s lengthy hard truths her social conscience heightens, are unaffected by the spells and from across In addition,these the fact that noletter one to her dear friend Frances details the reader experiences firsts time to the ancient kingdom of Fal, and they the everywhere. many can receive electronicbysignals, of ways that Harry manages to get under her,transmit while or being entertained pursue Nuada and his sorcery to the alongside edge heras skin over the course of a few days. Mollie kind, undermines their composure the sharp,any funny style of the narrative. of the abyss, unsure until the final moments the feeling grows that things are not asfinds they it particularly frustrating that Harry, as whether their struggle will be in vain TheorMaking of Mollie has cross-curricular a boy, is allowed to do whatever he pleases, seem. whether Ayla can finally hold Nuada and his application due to the diversity of themes, whereas she, as a young girl, must ask her master, the Dagda, to account. including:Ayla remains uneasy. Troubled by fragmented parents’ leave for any activity outside the snatches Human rights of memory, she isolates herself, the home.

APPROACH threat from the Danann constantly in her Women’s rights Mollie’s younger sister Julia is twelve and thoughts.

Equality Essentially this is a fun adventure. It is very very much the baby of the house. Together FamilyHer friends Finny, Sean and Benvy share fast-paced, credible and will capture the the three females complete the fiddly oddimagination of any child who reads it. Loyaltythe apprehension witnessing the bizarre job of darning clothes that are beginning to Discrimination behaviour they see around them.

The activities can either be used for small show signs of wear and tear. Mollie’s days Courage When Ayla startles her uncles Taig, are Lann‘incredibly dull’. She tells us about the group or individual response.

Friendship and Fergus with a message on their answer various ways that her siblings drive her mad: The plot is colourful and very visual, lending Love they rush to find her.

Harry with his haughty, supercilious manner itself easily to graphic interpretation. Socialphone, status and Julia with her fervent religiosity.

Secrecy The guide is divided into three sections to DISCUSSION POINTS Conflict Mollie writes about the local convent school reflect and complement the development of (Read pp28–30): As the time gate pulses Social Change that she attends. The main players in her the story. and swallows them, Ayla and her team Education school-yard social circle are Nora, Daisy, journey many years into the future to Section 1 the present time. Will time travel ever The Making of Mollie 1 be possible? What sort of contradictions The Strange might it cause? Would travel be possible Pages 13–68 in different direction? i.e. into the past or the future or even different presents that SUMMARY are existing simultaneously?

As the noise of battle fades and consciousness www.sciencekids.co.nz/videos/physics/ revives Ayla, she realizes that they must timetravel.html pursue Nuada and the remnants of the mocomi.com/is-time-travel-possible/ Danann army through the misty terrors (Read p63): Sean has arrived at Daly’s of the ogham-scored pillars and enter the sweet shop and feels uneasy because he collapsing time portal to prevent him making misses Ayla’s leadership. Sometimes it is real his threat to wreak vengeance on their easier to allow someone else to make our homes. decisions, especially the difficult ones.

How far should we allow anyone to lead In hot pursuit they emerge into the modern our decisions or behaviour, especially if village that they seemed to have only just we are not really comfortable with what

The Spiral Path Matt Griffin

Teaching Guide By RATIONALE & THEMES This story completes the Ayla trilogy. Ayla, her friends and uncles, fresh from victory over Nuada and the Danann at Muirthemne on the plains of ancient Ireland, pursue the remnants of his army across time, back to their home to prevent the Danann king exacting vengeance on their unprepared and unsuspecting village.

Crackling with magic, Ayla and her friends must summon and deploy their every resource and face unspeakable dangers if they are to rescue their families, restore the village and thwart the ambition of Nuada to destroy everything in his path installing Danann rule across time itself.

The themes explored are: Courage Fear Anger Magic Friendship Loyalty Determination Identity Integrity Trust Self awareness

The remnants of Nuada’s Danann army, pursued from the battlefield, merge into the mist among the ogham-inscribed pillars, his threat to seek vengeance ringing out as they make for the time gate.

The earth trembles, felling the pillars as the time gate closes behind them. Ayla and her team, taking the decision to follow, step into the gate to emerge into a version of their home that is strangely unfamiliar.

Alerted by the behaviour of their families and neighbours, Ayla realizes that the Danann have consolidated their position, bewitching almost everyone in the village and sealing it

The Spiral Path

1

ISBN 978-1-84717-913-5 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-943-2

Siggins

Driven by desperation to find a peaceful place removed from her younger brother and sister, Cass determines to build a secret RATIONALE &Gang, THEMES clubhouse for the Bubble Street enlisting the help of Lexsoon and he meets none other than the ghost of William Webb Ellis – after whom the Rugby Nicholas, the other members of the gang.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has World Cup trophy is named – who has Buoyed by Lex’s enthusiasm and exasperated the honour of hosting the inauguralwith U-16Nicholas’s been summoned to the present but cannot persistent questions, adopts suggestion for RugbyCass World Cup.Lex’s Theygrandmother’s decide to stage an understand why. their secret location and they set off to conduct a survey. interprovincial competition to find players The training camps provide many tests of for a representative andaccess competitive national When an un-co-operative bull bars to their preferred site, mettle and character. The friends rise to the forcing them tosquad. find an alternative access across an improvised plank challenges as the final shape of the squad bridge spanningEoin a stream, Cass issuggests thisthe willlynchpin help to deter Madden already of curious emerges. strangers.

Castlerock College’s Junior Cup team; now The theft of the famous Webb Ellis trophy is determined to play roletries in the White lies and he invention are required as athefullgang to assemble while on display at the tournament casts an national competition as well. He progresses the materials they will need for construction. embarrassing shadow over the competition, to the provincial team, vying with the other Cass manages to deflect her mother’s curiosity and convince herbut thatit clarifies the reason for the ghost provinces’ U-16 talent to be selected for the the wooden panels she needs are really to build a rabbit hutchof for aWilliam Webb Ellis’s unexpected national panel and to secure a green jersey. rabbit that Lex has recently acquired. appearance.

The action pulses with excitement as When Nicholas suggests that the clubhouse might need a floor,The Casstrophy restored, the final matches pit Eoin negotiates the trials and successes coaxes his reluctant participation in a school musical in order Eointo and his team against the best young of preparation and selection. He uses his procure a roll of green foam large enough to cover the clubhouse players in the world as they battle for the personal strengths and skills to support his floor and provide him with a costume for the role of a grassy knoll rightin to raise the World Cup for team and teammates as they pursue the Junior Webb the play, leaving him incandescent with humiliation. country.

Ellis Cup, and help to recover the trophy when it is stolen.

Frustrated and at the mercy of unwanted attention from her younger siblings, Cass, unable to find any peace at home, has the brilliant idea of building a secret clubhouse.

SUMMARY

‘Curtin has a deliciously warm touch and this book is perfect for girls aged 8+ … highly recommended’ Irish Independent

ISBN 978-1-84717-920-3 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-944-9

Erika McGann, Illustrated by Vince Reid

Teaching Guide

Later, Eoin and his dad collect Dylan for the drive back to school. Eoin overhears Dylan’s mum reminding him of the doctor’s advice to avoid playing for a while due to his recent concussion injury.

Back at school, the boys catch up with their schoolmates and share the excitement of their adventure at the Twickenham tournament. Eoin and Dylan learn of the IRFU’s plans for the Junior World Cup. Eoin meets Charlie, a useful new addition to the school team, and renews his friendship with Brian, his ghost pal, who tells him of the appearance of new and agitated spectre from the past who seems to be searching for something.

After comfortably winning their first match, Eoin discovers that influence can be as effective as talent when Marcus McCord secures a place on the Leinster squad using his godfather’s contacts.

Dylan is dropped temporarily from the school panel for safety reasons. He blames Eoin for releasing the information about ISBN 978-1-84717-847-3 his concussion, souring the atmosphere for eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-903-6 everyone.

The first interpro tournament in Limerick delivers mixed fortunes for Leinster, as all the players try to impress in advance of the selections for an Irish jersey.

Eoin allows himself to be distracted by McCord’s arrogance and disrespect for the coach.

Gertie and Grace. Nora and Daisy are held The second day of the tournament proves in Mollie’s highest esteem. Gertie and Grace better with a comprehensive victory for are best avoided, in Mollie’s opinion. Mollie Leinster, restoring their chances of emerging signs off, urging Frances to respond with tales as overall winners. of her far more exotic life in England.

Taking the opportunity to spend some time 5th April 1912 at home, Eoin meets his granddad Dixie and Mollie’s second missive takes his a village more discovers a connection between intriguing turn. spirit Phyllis, herhad elder sister is and the agitated Brian mentioned, up to something odd. saw Phyllis is inclined the spirit Eoin himself while he was to in involve herself in unusual activities but her Limerick. behaviour of late has added a much welcome dash of drama and intrigue to Mollie’s days.

Teaching Guide Mollie’s suspicions were raised by snatches of Phyllis’s whispered conversations with the family maid, Maggie. Further clues lay in the unsightly large hat that Phyllis began to wear, later found by Mollie on top of a wardrobe covered in flour and cabbage leaves. The most condemning piece of evidence came when Mollie spied Phyllis climbing out the window and sneaking into the lane behind the house. These are not the actions of a well-bred innocent young lady and Mollie can’t decide what her sister could be up to. Mollie shares theories of a secret love affair, or maybe Phyllis is a revolutionary or a criminal. She can’t quite put her finger on it yet, but what she is sure of is that Maggie the maid and Phyllis’s friend Kathleen are somehow involved.

19th April 1912 Mollie writes to her fellow book-worm buddy once more, describing Phyllis’s increasingly mysterious movements about the house and town. She reveals a serious break-through in her amateur sleuthing activities; Phyllis has been receiving secret packages. Furthermore Phyllis has been sneaking said packages to Maggie the family’s maid. Through a little additional spying and a growing sense of guilt, Mollie has discovered that the package contains pamphlets. Could it be that Phyllis and Maggie truly are revolutionaries? Even Nora, who is not taken to flights of fancy, admits that it sounds quite suspicious.

Teaching Guide

Accelerated Reader™ There are currently over 50 O'Brien Press titles that have been quizzed and graded using the Accelerated Reader programme across lower, middle and upper years, with more on the way. Given the importance of Irish books to Irish schools, we are working with Renaissance Learning to ensure that there are enough titles to choose from at all levels. Look out for more O'Brien Press titles with Accelerated Reader quizzes online.

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2.8

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3.9

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4

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Upper Years 14+

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The Clubhouse Mystery by Erika McGann obrien.ie/the-clubhouse-mystery

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The Clubhouse Mystery

ISBN 978-1-84717-920-3 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-944-9

Erika McGann, Illustrated by Vince Reid Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney RATIONALE & THEMES

Several leads are identified and followed unsuccessfully before the truth is revealed and the culprits uncovered in a daring undercover operation.

Secrets are a speciality for Cass Okara and the other members of the Bubble Street Gang, her best friends Lex and Nicholas.

Embarking on a construction project, they build a secret clubhouse that would be the envy of the whole county, even the whole world were it not for the fact that it is a secret clubhouse and therefore no one except for the gang members must ever know of its existence never mind see or admire it.

APPROACH This is a very enjoyable and entertaining read. Although the plot is comic, it is an engaging read with many opportunities for discussion.

This guide has divided the story into three sections and the activities offer suggestions on developing the themes.

However, when telltale crumbs reveal that their secret has been compromised, they are forced to become detectives to uncover the intruders.

Section 1: The Secret Clubhouse Pages 9-48

Essentially a charming comic story, the themes are pertinent and include Friendship Peer pressure & control Insecurity Inter-generational relationships Rivalry & jealousy Conflict resolution Secrets Secret keeping Fairness Taking responsibility Loyalty

SUMMARY Driven by desperation to find a peaceful place removed from her younger brother and sister, Cass determines to build a secret clubhouse for the Bubble Street Gang, enlisting the help of Lex and Nicholas, the other members of the gang.

Buoyed by Lex’s enthusiasm and exasperated with Nicholas’s persistent questions, Cass adopts Lex’s grandmother’s suggestion for their secret location and they set off to conduct a survey.

When an un-co-operative bull bars access to their preferred site, forcing them to find an alternative access across an improvised plank bridge spanning a stream, Cass suggests this will help to deter curious strangers.

SUMMARY

White lies and invention are required as the gang tries to assemble the materials they will need for construction.

Frustrated and at the mercy of unwanted attention from her younger siblings, Cass, unable to find any peace at home, has the brilliant idea of building a secret clubhouse.

Cass manages to deflect her mother’s curiosity and convince her that the wooden panels she needs are really to build a rabbit hutch for a rabbit that Lex has recently acquired.

Enlisting the co-operation of Lex and Nicholas, the other members of the Bubble Street Gang, and with the encouragement of Lex’s granny, they identify a suitable site, source the materials and begin the construction.

When Nicholas suggests that the clubhouse might need a floor, Cass coaxes his reluctant participation in a school musical in order to procure a roll of green foam large enough to cover the clubhouse floor and provide him with a costume for the role of a grassy knoll in the play, leaving him incandescent with humiliation.

Overcoming every challenge, the secret clubhouse takes shape; Cass’s enthusiasm directing the efforts of Lex and Nicholas towards completion.

After the secret official opening of the clubhouse the gang barely have time to enjoy the comfort of their retreat before a suspicious trail of crumbs alerts them to the certainty that their secrecy has been breached.

DISCUSSION POINTS (Read p 9): Cass reveals that she has a secret and then proceeds

to share it, so how can it still be a secret? What do you think a secret should be and how does it change as you reveal it to others? Are secrets always innocent or safe to keep? When do you think you should not keep a secret?

Forced to deploy their detective skills, the gang search for clues that will identify the ‘cuckoo’ that has been sharing their secret nest.

(Read pp 17 & 18): Cass and her friends are eager for adventure

The Clubhouse Mystery

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