for Sc hools 201 4 – 2 0 1 5
A comprehensive and easy-to-use guide to O’Brien Press children’s books and how to use them in the classroom
O’Brien for Schools
A
t The O’Brien Press we realise that reading is a core skill at the heart of the curriculum. We know that each child will present their teacher with individual interests and abilities. We understand that teachers need adaptable, versatile and engaging resources that will help them to plan and develop high-level thinking and communication skills in the classroom.
O’BRIEN FOR SCHOOLS CONTENTS FREE Resources available
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Black Flag – Picture Books & Nursery Rhymes 4
That’s why we have developed, and are constantly updating, a comprehensive range of FREE resources that support you, the teacher, and encourage children to develop these skills to their maximum potential.
Orange Flag – Reading Level 4+
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Purple Flag – Reading Level 5+
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Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+
6–7
Leabhair Gaeilge
8–9
Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+
10–13
Irish Historical Fiction
14–17
Themes 18–21 www.obrien.ie/schools 22–23 Where Can I Find O’Brien Press Books?
O’Brien Press books are colour-coded with reading age flags. This guide indicates which flag is most appropriate for different ages for each educational system. 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 Year 3 [P3]. Class) 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
TEACHING GUIDES
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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.
City of Fate
7-337-9 ISBN 978-1-8471 -84717-649-3 eBook ISBN 978-1
Nicola Pierce Guide Teaching ey Hean
By Peter Yuri together and 5-year-old Peter of protector. assumes the role e APPROACH es a deadly routin THEMES divided into three Life for them becom ing for RATIONALE & guide has been of the food and prowl n city of This an exploration scavenging for Russia of allow the to of ns The WWII siege was a sectio story. shelter. the winter of 1942, ience major events in the rous life Stalingrad, in s that have Yuri learns just how dange this story we exper for deals with theme rs. They face novel an le brutal battle. In g soldie The n strugg offerin through the resonance, is for the Russia st reluctance to urban warfare a small a contemporary e survive tion for the slighte Peter, Tanya and see how peopl ts. execu survival of Yuri, opportunity to y. t urban conflic rs. engage the enem live through violen group of boy soldie all over explore and g troops from ience of us allows ts a clear exper Stalingrad is pullin story Ninety miles The h the The story presen trauma that are Russia to her defence. conflicts throug challenges and his class for the and daily s contemporary the ons survey t. actions, decisi away Mr Belov e of such conflic prism of the res to escort them by the a consequenc skills and last time as he prepa experienced d develope SPHE consequences n to the enlistment office. when they resiste The activities ipatio rad, partic Staling class of Peter citizens to crush suit group or whole rubble with Yuri, army’s attempt Wandering the the German , who in particularl. rate their city. neighbour Tanya have meets his r them and oblite she and her mothe ed are: explains that Unit 1 The themes explor in a basement. ult found shelter g Courage ngrad: The Assa sibility of sendin Stali respon the Dazed by Hope himself Mr Belov finds Pages 5-78 tism his class to war, Selflessness swing from patrio lost while the boys n to fear. The class Friendship SUMMARY h apprehensio Loyalty rad is throug parents. Staling their on to ed ll launch Cruelty lives bids farewe The air attack apple less, shattering Yuri climbs an Patriotism ering Searching for food, sudden and merci below. is told to stay the city to smold Despair and reducing Peter tree while Peter t down, Yuri finds Bereavemen rubble. On climbing reveals that a is enjoying An anxious search Yuri Bogdanov Peter to a 14th gone. One moment his drawn on has s SUMMARY g n’s singin e, a swim with his friend in a woma the German airforc he is cowering ent. In August 1942, n aerial birthday, the next Peter mother basem launched a sudde ent, Yuri finds cellar with his d e basem the Luftwaffe, the reduc -blaste ng to bomb Enteri ged woman’s on Stalingrad, an and baby sister. bombardment watching a deran while the Germ the sitting as if everything pted the city to ruin, to continue life pulverised, from tending the attempt Wehrmacht, attem With the city realises she is land army, the Germans begin resistance, was normal. Yuri bombing, the last shreds of Stalingrad. of l the to quell any for contro baby. a dead claim the city process of taking of her so they could surrender, the destruction are ordered to s, . Tanya recalls how As the citizens German Reich all his expectation whether to s and ’s letters, with has to decide her. remaining citizen Yuri’s mother free or fiancé der. However, the strange way freed and try to stay to had in a refused to surren ignore the order She decides class of 30 boys rag-tag defenders to surrender. story f Mr Belov ’s
Check out www.obrien.ie/ TeachingGuides
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TEACHING RESOURCES AVAILABLE FREE FROM WWW.OBRIEN.IE ACTIVITY SHEETS
YOUR SCHOOL LIBRARY
HUNDREDS of FREE activity sheets, created by
Get great advice and suggestions on setting up and maintaining a fantastic library in your school. FREE at www.obrien.ie/school-library
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. www.obrien.ie/activity-sheets
ALFIE GREEN: A STRANGE NEW PLANT 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!
Féile Fever
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. 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 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 ...
JOE O’BRIEN
The Sportswriter’s Manager of the Month: May By PETER HEANEY Mick Wilde has been nominated as one of the contenders for the Sportswriter’s Award of Manager of the Month.
www. ob ri en . i e
Danny ’s Hidden Words Help Danny to find these words in the box below
Bristles Teeth Toothbrush Park Pond
Monster Bury Picnic Loo Fetch
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o By Peter Heaney. Based on the Alfie Green books by Joe O’Brien. © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie
ISBN 978-1-84717-173-3 pb
A PICTURE OF ALFIE’S NEW PLANT
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In order to make sure that they are being fair, the sportswriters try to score the contender’s skills against a set of agreed common skills that they think are important for a manager to have. There are five common skills that they will score each manager on and then each sportswriter is allowed to include one extra skill that they think is important too. 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.
SPORTSWRITER’S MANAGER OF THE MONTH: MAY Nomination form Name: MICK WILDE Team:
LITTLESTOWN CROKES G.A.C.
SKILLS 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:
Based on the Danny’s Smelly Toothbrush by Brianóg Brady Dawson © Copyright reserved.The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie
ORGANISING SKILLS
TACTICAL SKILLS (How did he use his players)
SCORE OUT OF 10
THE STORY OF IRELAND Statues with a Story: Activity 1
EVIDENCE
People are a very important part of any story and many people important people have contributed to Ireland’s Story. Research someone who has made a contribution to the history of your own area. 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 after someone? Is there a local park named after someone? These are usually good places to start ” You might prefer to choose someone who is not very well known. They may even be still living. If this is so then it would be a great opportunity to write to them and ask them some good questions. When you have chosen the person you want to research, you will need to think about why you have chosen them and what effect you think that their contribution has made. Write a short description of the person you have chosen and the reasons you selected them in the boxes below. WHO I HAVE CHOSEN
WHY I HAVE CHOSEN THIS PERSON
ABILITY TO THINK UNDER PRESSURE
WRITER’S CHOICE OF SKILL
TOTAL SCORE Write one sentence to describe why Mick should be Manager of the Month
By Peter Heaney. Based on The Story of Ireland by Brendan O’Brien. © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie
THEMES Perhaps you are already using O’Brien Press books in your classroom, or maybe you’re thinking about it. Whatever the case, 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. www.obrien.ie/schools/themes
REAL BOOKS FOR SCHOOLS Check out this fantastic integrated Reading Programme based on over 80 books and make O’Brien Press books work for you. Find out more at www.obrien.ie/reading-programme
DISCOVERY CHALLENGE COVER GALLERY 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 www.obrien.ie/cover-gallery
BILLEOGA SAOTHAIR Billeoga saothair bunaithe ar na leabhar SOS: Fíor nó Bréagach, Aimsigh na Difríochta, Deir Ó Grádaigh, Rabhlóga … www.obrien.ie/billeoga-saothair
Specialised activity sheets for reluctant readers, developed by resource teachers. Available FREE at www.obrien.ie/discovery-challenge
POSTERS, BOOKMARKS & DISPLAY MATERIAL Email 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!
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Black Flag – Picture Books & Nursery Rhymes
A major illustrated collection of nursery rhymes known and loved throughout Ireland. It includes international and British rhymes as well as special Irish favourites.
A beautifully illustrated book is the perfect introduction to the world of reading, both in the classroom and at home.
Now available in paperback.
Three of Oscar Wilde’s best loved fairy tales – ‘The Happy Prince’, ‘The Nightingale and the Rose’ and ‘The Selfish Giant’ – enhanced by the flowing lines of Charles Robinson’s illustrations from the original 1888 edition, now in full colour.
Orange Flag – Reading Level 4+ At The O’Brien Press, we realise the need for bright, colourful, engaging and energetic books for younger readers, to help build up confidence during the early stages of learning to read.
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Panda cubs is an exciting series of full-colour illustrated books for younger children – ideal for reading with a child or helping them to begin reading on their own. ‘The O’Brien panda cubs series has all it takes to encourage reading.’ Irish Examiner
For lots of great books at this reading level, visit www.obrien.ie/orange-flag
Title Here Purple Flag – Reading Level 5+ With quirky characters and original stories, pandas are also perfect for older readers who may have difficulties learning to read.
‘These easy stories with their simple texts and lively illustrations should encourage even the most recalcitrant reader.’ Sunday Independent
ABOUT THE AUTHOR BRIANÓG BRADY DAWSON works as a primary school teacher. Her first book, Granny’s Teeth, was a No.1 bestseller. Danny features in nine panda books, including Danny’s Pesky Pet and Pageboy Danny. Two titles are also available in Irish, including Fiacla Mhamó, which was also a No. 1 bestseller!
‘An exciting introduction to Irish legends for the young child. They are guaranteed to capture and sustain the interest of the emergent reader.’ InTouch Magazine
Color profil e: Disabl Composite ed Default screen
Color profil e: Disabl Composite ed Default screen
They taugh t him to run and to swim and to hunt deer and to sing songs. The boy’s na
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TEACHING RESOURCES Activity Sheets
For lots of great books at this reading level, visit www.obrien.ie/purple-flag
Teaching support is essential, especially at younger reading levels. That’s why we have hundreds of FREE Activity Sheets available, including nearly 40 to support the panda series: when you choose an O’Brien panda you get a whole teaching support package. Our Activity Sheets are created by teachers for teachers, with the primary school curriculum in mind. They are ideal for classroom use, with puzzle pages, language development and visual arts activities and more. www.obrien.ie/activity-sheets
Reading Programme Our Reading Programme includes inter-disciplinary teaching ideas for 20 panda books. Available FREE at
www.obrien.ie/reading-programme
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Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+ O’Brien Press Yellow Flag books are perfect for children who can read stories with chapters and slightly longer sentences. They capture the imagination of young readers with humour and illustrations that go beyond simply showing what is in the text, for a more complete reading experience.
Featuring the hilarious Mad Grandad books from award-winning Irish children’s author and illustrator Oisín McGann. Lenny’s grandad isn’t like other grown-ups. He’s just a little bit mad – which means they go on great adventures together!
CHAPTER 2
Granda d’s Dodgy Goggle s We walked around outside, sticking up the posters. It was very wet, but I held the umbrella over Grandad as he stuck them up.
I kept lookin g at hi somet m. Th hing ere w stran as couldn ge ab out hi ’t wor m, bu k out tI what. Then ‘Grand I got ad!’ I it. said. differe ‘Your nt. Th glasse ey’re s are square roun d inst !’ ead of
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Introducing
Irish Book Award Nominee
These beautifully illustrated, heart-warming stories are perfect for sharing in class or for independent readers. ABOUT THE AUTHOR GERRY BOLAND is a writer, teacher and committed environmentalist. His first children’s book, Marco Moves In, was nominated for an Irish Book Award. The sequel, Marco, Master of Disguise, was chosen for the Bord Gáis Energy Online Book Club 2012.
LLEY A V E MOR N E L G A wonderful new series of fun and informative stories all about farming and country life! Ideal for younger readers and for reading aloud.
LLEY A V E MOR N E L G
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR ANNA McQUINN was born in County Kerry, where she spent many happy hours helping her dad on his dairy farm. She taught English for several years before moving to the UK where she worked in children’s publishing. She now divides her time between developing new book ideas, writing stories and giving talks to young readers.
Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+ Magic and adventure with 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!
d by Recommende ergy Bord Gáis En r Book Club fo er 2012 th ge To ad Re
Shor tlisted for the Irish Book Awards 2010
the Selected for ency’s Ag g in ad Re UK ing Summer Read 11 Challenge 20
Winner e Book Best Chocolat mand ur Go , in Ireland ok World Cookbo 10 20 Awards
‘Gorgeous books beautifully illustrated, perfect for 6–7 year-olds.’ Sunday Independent
ABOUT THE AUTHOR JOE O’BRIEN is an award-winning gardener who lives in Ballyfermot in Dublin. He is the author of nine Alfie Green books as well as, for older readers, Little Croker, Féile Fever and Beyond the Cherry Tree. He has appeared on RTÉ’s The Den and TV3’s Ireland AM and is a regular contributor to local radio shows.
TEACHING RESOURCES
There are lots of great teaching support materials for the Alfie Green series. Check out these Activity Sheets and lots more at www.obrien.ie/schools – free to view and download!
ALFIE GREEN Gang and the Bee-Bottle
-5 pb
7-054 ISBN 978-1-8471
JOE O’BRIEN
Teaching Guide By Peter Heaney
Fitzer ambush Alfie and Next morning they l the way to schoo in the park on them for freeing the determined to punish
SUM MAR Y l for N D THEM ES kept after schoo RATIO NALE A of Alfie has been home t the magical world bees. maths. As he heads These books presen a dreaming during the bottle of the her they create he discovers that ws the top of the through the park, Alfie Green . Toget s Alfie unscre of explain there is an world bush rous . A Hebe Bee’s perfume and bees are in uproar wond erfull y humo trapping Queen a dark cloud of ters and anima ted children have been us angry buzz as exagg erated charac re. is the that some now all omino that nowhe magic and from the rs h them to kill r bees appea flora. Woven throug child bees in bottles the park warrio every g leave that to ef ning mischi threate bees launch a stingin essential thread of and the bees are The squadron of take Alfie is irrepressible, and his gang who for good. will identify with. attack on Whacker tackle a series of ers . they discov yelling Fitzer, Alfie and Fitzer, whooping with his friend Later in the park with invention. the to their heels comic are with gang his tures Fitzer and zany adven gone, Alfie and that Whacker Walsh sful bee With the danger are aimed at the mounts a succes the Hebe bush smiles Although the books sal culprits. Alfie head for school and and now he safe themes are univer Whacker sees him the bees are now younger reader, the ce rescue, but quietly knowing that and vibrant resour prospect of an angry and Fitzer face the and will create a rich from the Bottle gang. and activi ties, revenge. for ssions g discu lookin er for class to Whack ng them selves help and for lendi Plant ularly TS Old partic arts Alfie asks the Wise DISC USSIO N POIN all h drama, visual visit the Queen of Gang development throug he suggests that Alfie 14. The Bee Bottle b main themes are: Read pp.12– lives in Hone ycom and literacy. The bees in bottles and the bees. She r are trapping the bereavement a, and fierce warrio Dealing with This is very cruel. Mountain, in Arcani letting them die. Wise Old Plant gives means? The cruel Bullying her. being guard bees to What do you think to introduce him humans have the Supporting others Alfie a note in a bottle with Do you think that strategies her for her help species any way we Developing coping her and to ask right to treat other gang. eing of any examples of Whacker and his Emotional well-b like? Can you think b to animals? How reach Hone ycom cruel can being s Trust / Self esteem he e human Befor h ls? should treat anima must travel throug Keeping rules do you think we Moun tain, Alfie for an animals we use With the help of What about the Feelings Firethorn Valley. broom, a flight over food? accommodating flying . is now best option –25. Whac ker seems to be the pp.23 valley H the Read OAC APPR Alfie for freeing hly and a little matter as a series of Things don’t go smoot determined to punish written them are Wise has These books broom almost Alfie can ask the e the bees. Luckily of dirty fuel for the Each is a discret the adventures for Alfie. Have you ever been valley floor among to Old Plant for help. barbequed on the ss of the character the you story. For the richne bushes. However on? What would ach in a similar situati deadly Firethorn er, a series appro to his jets just in time. you know where develo p, howev and do if you were? Do bush manages to clear ered. Activi ties if her , should be consid know what to do each the queen get help? Do you are suggested for someone When Alfie meets to are ning discussion points guards happe r at ted you saw this e size and fierce warrio activities are sugges
ALFIE GREEN uzzler and the Monkey-P
ALFIE G REEN: A STRANG NEW PL E ANT Al
fie has dis covered many un plants in usual Arcania. They are similar to often plants we have he our own re in world bu t don’t be some of fooled – them ha ve very character strange istics inde ed! Write a descriptio n of a ne that Alfie w plant has disco vered. Gi name an ve it a d explai n what it likes an type of so d what kin il d of weat condition her s it prefe rs. Explain any stran ge the new character plant ha istics s as well describing as what it looks lik your plan e. Will t be frien dly dangero or us? Try to give as detail as much you can Use the box to th e side to picture of dr aw a what yo u think will look the plan like and t write yo descriptio ur n in the box below forget to . Don’t give the new plan name. ta
JOE O’BRIEN
Teaching Guide
A PICTU
RE OF AL
FIE’S NE
W PLAN
By Peter Heaney
s coming from upstair tiny monkey feet as Fitzer hides, Alfie disturbs them and SUMM ARY shed and the Wise of the heads for the potting announced the arrival music The of no was t the magical world Old Plant. lle. However this These books presen a circus to Budsvi to call the her they create was a monkey circus, Old Plant tells him ordinary circus. This Alfie Green . Toget ys The Wise from rous world of mers were monke to delay the circus police and then where all the perfor wond erfull y humo arrive . He must reason it was free. ters and anima ted leavin g until they and for some strange exagg erated charac the Monkey is the magic climb the to h the performance challenge Edison flora. Woven throug about child and Fitzer arrive for happy every Alfie too that ef not is behind mischi lves seated Puzzle tree. Alfie essential thread of that and early and find themse the tree reassures him Alfie is irrepressible, the show begins this plan, but the will identify with. will of Whacker. When g, leaves on the tree they tackle a series amazing; jugglin the sharp pointed with his friend Fitzer, climb monkeys are simply comic invention. for the monkey to and flying on make it impossible zany adventures with s tightrope walking simple plan defeat Alfie the at the clowning, h, free, is enoug aimed circus are Sure up. e. Since the Although the books pocket universal the trapez their are s . spend theme to Edison the able younger reader, y ce and Fitzer are fizzy arrive and the Monke and vibrant resour of popcorn and With this the police money on a feast and will create a rich all and activi ties, rs softly to Alfie that sions whispe discus tree r Puzzle for class tree to drinks. s are hiding in the nced, ng thems elves Prize’ is annou the monkey thieve partic ularly lendi from arts When the ‘Big g softly on the hair of the h drama, visual out Blowin throug drawn him. is pment name beside develo Principal Boggins’ Alfie conjur es a main themes are: Ediso n, the most the Wise Old Plant. and literacy. The air hat to challe nge a that swirls in the to ask bereavement sparkling blue banan the world. He has Dealing with intelligent ape in of a temptation for he can’t answer. and proves too much Bullying him a question that of the tree along thieves, who fall out is very the on questi Supporting others stolen goods. The principal’s maths strategies r it and with their bags of answe to able is Developing coping Jack difficult but Edison is arreste d and eing al Boggins is to ride The ring maste r Emotional well-b the forfeit for Princip kins dazzling circus ga a tiny tricycle, wearin Dumbkins from Dumb Trust / Self esteem around the ring on to his circus as a rs. In the uproar of offers Alfie two tickets Following rules pair of frilly pink knicke ng that follows Alfie reward. Feelings cheering and chanti er drink all over Whack knocks Fitzer’s fizzy TS to flee the Big Top DISC USSIO N POIN and they both have to APPR OACH Everyone was asked angry Whacker. of Read pp.15–16. chased by a very written as a series the empty and address to These books are is a discrete give their name it safely to Alfie’s Each make al Alfie. just for They adventures know what person as Whacker to circus. Do you bang the door shut ss of the character is it and richne the think house For Do you story. ach gate. Eventually information is? er, a series appro pounding up to the type of information develo p, howev and comes to wash himself and sensible to give this ered. Activi ties ne that Whacker heads home someo If spots should be consid asks? each relief, Alfie to anyone who are suggested for name or they sigh with as your for are discussion points asks strang e. There you don’t know es are suggested at some thing very you do? book and overall activiti of all the empty a number address, what should se who have read keys climbing out had
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N D THEM ES RATIO NALE A
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RIPTION
-4 hb
7-022 ISBN 978-1-8471
OF ALFIE
’S NEW
PLANT
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Leabhair Gaeilge
GLAC Sraith leabhar do léitheoirí óga atá maisithe go hálainn. Bealach fíorspreagúil í an tsraith seo leis an nGaeilge a shaothrú sa seomra ranga. Ais iontach í freisin do thuismitheoirí ar mhaith leo léamh na Gaeilge a chur chun cinn sa bhaile. Age 6+: native speakers/Age 8+: others
BILLEOGA SAOTHAIR Billeoga Saothair bunaithe ar na leabhar Sos; Fíor nó Bréagach, Aimsigh na Difríochta, Deir Ó Grádaigh, Rabhlóga …
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Leabhair Gaeilge The second book in a vibrant and exciting Irish language series from The O’Brien Press for children aged 8+ (native speakers), 9+ (others).
ALSO IN THIS SERIES: ÉASCA PÉASCA
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. Cluiche peile ag rang a sé. Buachaillí in aghaidh cailíní. Deir na múinteoirí nach bhfuil ann ach spraoi.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dar le hEoghan, áfach, tá i bhfad níos mó ná sin i gceist. Bród! Onóir! Stádas na mbuachaillí!
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.
Tá torann aisteach aerach le cloisteáil i dteach duine de na bleachtairí. Cad atá ann in aon Le Gabriel Rosenstock chor? An den saol seo nó den saol Léaráidí le Alan Nolan eile é? Pé rud é féin, ní ghlacfaidh Beirt chailíní agus beirt na Bleachtairí sos ar bith go dtí go bhuachaillí, ceathrar a bhfuil réiteoidh siad an cás! misneach, fuinneamh agus samhlaíocht acu, sin iad na Bleachtairí duit. Níl aon rud is mó a thaitníonn leo ná cás deacair a réiteach!
An enjoyable and practical way to learn the first essential words in Irish!
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 15 popular themes including farm, school, family, colours and food. ‘A good introduction to the language for children or adult learners.’ Evening Echo ‘Practical, simple and more fun for kids than it sounds!’ Books Ireland
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Wipe-clean flaps can be used over and over again Combines key words and picture prompts HIDE AND SPEAK IRISH also contains an easy to use pronunciation guide • Engaging, humorous full-colour picture spreads illustrate each theme 9
Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+
O’Brien Press Blue Flag books offer a wealth of fiction from award-winning authors with everything from adventure, fantasy and historical fiction to stories of love, friendship and family life. Many books have won awards and have been translated into a wide range of foreign languages, a testament to their quality and popularity. CHAPTER THIRT
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either of us said anything – it wa s like we were waiting for him to waft alo ng and be glad to see us. The room was pre tty messy, which was stra nge because Mi ster Lewis is what Big Ella cal ls a ‘real tidy gen tlem an’. ‘What will we do, Milo?’ whispere d Shane, staying close bes ide me. ‘Dunno,’ I gulped , picking up the hat. We stood ner vously together, looking around the roo m. 87
ABOUT THE AUTHOR MARY ARRIGAN is an award-winning writer of fiction for children and teens. Previously, she has been shortlisted for the Readers Association Award, the Bisto Award and the White Raven Award.
Milo is in all kinds of trouble again when the past catches up with him in this exciting series of adventures from master storyteller Mary Arrigan. ‘A wonderful story … A cracking read.’ – Inis Magazine on Milo and One Dead Angry Druid ‘This exciting supernatural adventure has great humour, pace and cliff hangers that will keep young readers turning the pages and looking forward to more in the series.’ – Children’s Books Ireland on Milo and One Dead Angry Druid ‘[A] consummate storyteller.’ – The Irish Times on Mary Arrigan
Readers who like the Roald Dahl books and Eoin Colfer’s The Legend of Spud Murphy will like The Milo Adventures.
ing Hood, Wolfgran is a A sequel to the story of Little Red Rid rld of fairy tales. Granny wonderfully irreverent take on the wo pigs and moved into the has sold her house to the three little nt Characters from Fairy Happy-Ever-After Home for Retireme her tail! Tales. But the Big Bad Wolf is hot on The O’Brien Press and Children’s Books Ireland teamed up again to give the country’s young illustrators a chance to see their design on a book cover. The sixth annual ‘Design-a-Cover Competition’ was a huge success with thousands of entries. Winner Abigail Walker from Athboy, Co. Meath created this imaginative cover for the brand new edition of Finbar O’Connor’s hilarious debut Wolfgran. A big congratulations and well done to all those who took part! Want to see your design on the cover of a book? Then enter our 2014 competition this autumn! The lucky winner will not only see their design gracing the shelves of their local library or bookshop, but will have their entire class invited to a glitzy awards ceremony and win sets of O’Brien Press titles for their school! Full competition details at www.childrensbooksireland.com 10
Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ Sport Hurling
Introducing the first illustrated novel about hurling! Something has to be done … Ray is getting tired of losing every match he plays with his team, the Ballybreen Terriers. Not only are they constantly at the bottom of the league, they have to face the gloating of rival Dennis ‘Dirty Den’ Conway. Before they become a laughing stock, Ray persuades Fintan Heffernan, ex-star player of U10’s to leave his early retirement and computer games to help bring ‘Dirty Den’ down and lead the Ballybreen Terriers to the victory they deserve.
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The Mighty Ducks meets the GAA!
otball
Gaelic Fo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR ALAN NOLAN is a comics writer, graphic designer, artist and co-creator of the horror series Sancho. He is the creator of The Big Break Detectives Casebook, a graphic novel for younger readers, and the Murder Can Be Fatal mysteries. Born in Dublin, he studied at the National College of Art and Design. He lives in Bray, County Wicklow, with his wife and three sons.
The Littlestown Crokes are playing well this season, but off the pitch, with his dad in danger of losing his job, things are tough for captain Danny Wilde. Nothing keeps the Crokes down for long though, and after lots of GAA action and a fundraising marathon, things begin to look up! ‘A sharply executed tale with plenty of humourous characterisations and some serious storylines thrown in.’ Inis Magazine ‘One young sports obsessive I know sped through the story . . . [and] praised the back-story.’ The Irish Times
Rugby
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TEACHING RESOURCES Loads of free teaching guides are available on www.obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today! 3 pb
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A fantastic sequel to the well-received Rugby Spirit … Eoin is back at boarding school and this time he has a companion from his home town with him. New boy Dylan is learning all the rules of the school and is determined to get on the rugby team ... ABOUT THE AUTHOR GERARD SIGGINS worked for many years in the Sunday Tribune. He has written several books about cricket, and was the co-author of Lansdowne Road: The Stadium; The Matches; The Greatest Days.
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Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+
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Marooned in Manhattan: New York City. Evie Brooks had seen it on TV but suddenly finds herself leaving her home in Dublin and moving to Manhattan with her American uncle Scott after the death of her mother. Never having owned a pet more substantial than a goldfish, Evie is intrigued by Scott’s NYC veterinary practice and before long, she is working as an assistant in the clinic. Between the pets, their owners, Scott and his lawyer girlfriend, the summer quickly becomes a whirlwind of change and activity! And then Evie has to make a huge choice: will she stay in New York or return to live in Ireland with her godmother, Janet? ‘A great way for a 10+ year old to discover New York City … Speckled with humour throughout … An incredibly moving story and a real page-turner.’ LoveReading4Kids.co.uk
Central Park Showdown: With the arrival of her father from Australia, Evie’s life is thrown into turmoil. Not only has she to contend with a new woman in Scott’s life, but now she has to face the prospect of a custody battle between her uncle and her father. She really wants to stay with Scott and, in true Evie style, is determined to stand up for herself – by firing her lawyer. Can Evie’s friends rally and convince her father to withdraw his application for custody?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR SHEILA AGNEW was born in New York and grew up in Dublin with her sister and two brothers. After graduating from UCD, she practiced as a lawyer in London, Sydney and New York. Sheila has wanted to be a writer since she was seven. She now lives and writes between Dublin and New York City.
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... beware the eyes in the dark ... When Grace and her five best friends are sucked into a world of witches and faeries, it seems like a nightmare. Forced to take part in the ‘Witch Trials’, they risk life and limb to compete against other trainee witches in magical, death-defying stunts. But when they are discovered to be mere humans, this supernatural world turns against them, and the real nightmare begins. Caught in the middle of an ancient and bloody feud, Grace must outwit powerful witches, avoid the clutches of the menacing faeries and bring her friends back together. But have the girls enough power between them to make it back home? The Watching Wood is the sequel to the successful The Demon Notebook and The Broken Spell.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
‘A scary scorcher of a story ... It’s a great read.’ Books Ireland ‘Touches of humour make this story of magic and friendship a good read for lovers of paranormal fiction.’ parentsintouch.co.uk
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ERIKA MCGANN grew up in Drogheda and now lives in Dublin. She has a respectable job, very normal friends and rarely dabbles in witchcraft. She loves writing stories that are autobiographical. Sort of.
Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+
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A new Alice and Megan story! Grace invites Alice and Megan to spend Easter in her house in Lanzarote. The girls end up home alone for two days in the house. It’s fun at first, until they become trapped on an upstairs balcony and spend a long, cold night and day waiting to be rescued! Meanwhile Melissa is still unhappy at boarding school: does Alice really want to help someone who has been so horrible to her in the past? Alice and Megan are back together again! When they are together, they can handle anything!
To celebrate the new book, all of the Alice and Megan books have got an exciting new look!
‘Where this book succeeds so well is in showing the repercussions that decisions made by adults have on children and the ways in which, accordingly, they must live through these. A happy-ever-after scenario is not presented at the end of the novel, but then this would not be feasible either for Megan or for Alice. At once perceptive and humorous ... [it] will doubtless strike a chord with many young readers.’ Jake Hope, www.Achuka.co.uk
TEACHING RESOURCES
Loads of free teaching guides are available on www.obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today!
Rich, spoilt, high-maintenance Eva Gordon likes fancy, sophisticated things, so when her parents sell their holiday home and their expensive car Eva can’t understand why. The story of Eva’s journey from spoilt princess to pretty cool girl! ‘Ireland’s answer to Jacqueline Wilson.’ Irish Independent
ABOUT THE AUTHOR JUDI CURTIN is a former teacher who grew up in Cork. She now lives in Limerick where she is married with three children. Judi is the bestselling author of eight books about best friends Alice and Megan. In Ireland the series has sold over 100,000 copies. She is also the author of the popular Eva series. She has been nominated for the Irish Book Awards on numerous occasions.
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Irish Historical Fiction Celtic Pre-History to 18th Century At The O’Brien Press, we have a wealth of novels for young people based on historical events. Over the next few pages we have detailed a chronology of sorts to aid you in combining these novels with a particular time period you are studying with your students. For a full list of children’s historical fiction by The O’Brien Press go to www.obrien.ie/schools/historical-fiction on of A ssociati Reading 09 0 2 rd wa Ireland A e Book of th Children’s 8 Year 200
A spectacular tour of Ireland’s history for younger readers, from the Ice Age to the present. The 27 chapters chronicle invasions, wars, Christianity, famine and a divided island, mixed with tales of Celtic head hunters, mysterious stone tombs, the Vikings, the black death, life in castles, the Titanic tragedy, music, mobiles and computers. Beautifully illustrated and a great read, this award-winning book is essential for every classroom and library. Over 25 activity sheets available. A perfect book for children with an interest in Irish history and mythology, bringing famous scenes from ancient times to life. CONOR MCHALE was born in Dublin in 1969. Shortly before leaving school, he decided he would become an archaeologist and has worked in the field ever since.
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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. As the armies come ever closer to each other, no one knows what will happen when they meet to fight what has been called the last battle. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie EITHNE MASSEY is a graduate of University College Dublin and NUI Maynooth, and a short-story writer.
A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN PRESS HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+ Celtic Pre-History
Brian is the smallest boy in the village. But he’s also the smartest. When the dangerous Vikings arrive it’s up to Brian to save the day with the help of his friends and his cleverest invention yet. The first adventure of Brian Boru, the boy who would grow up to become High King of Ireland.
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CHRIS JUDGE is an award winning author and illustrator from Dublin. His picture books include The Lonely Beast. He recently illustrated Roddy Doyle’s book Brilliant and is now working with comedian David O’Doherty on a book called Danger is Everywhere.
Celtic Magic Tales (Celtic Ireland) Celtic Tales of Enchantment (Celtic Ireland) The Hunt for Diarmaid and Gráinne (Celtic Ireland) The Táin (Celtic Ireland)
Vikings & Normans Brian Boru (Vikings in Ireland. Novel and graphic novel available) Blood Brother, Swan Sister (Battle of Clontarf) Strongbow (Normans in Ireland)
14th Century
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, cruel and dishonest landlords in a rich historical setting, this will appeal to students and teachers alike.
The Silver Stag of Bunratty Where the Stones Sing (medieval Dublin)
PETER SIRR lives in Dublin. He is a prize-winning poet as well as a critic, essayist and translator. For many years he was director of the Irish Writers’ Centre and was also editor of the national poetry magazine, Poetry Ireland Review. He has published eight collections of poetry and is a member of Aosdána.
17th Century
16th Century Granuaile Red Hugh (English rule in Ireland, 16th Century) Cave of Secrets (17th Century, pirates) Fugitives! (Flight of the Earls)
18th Century Black Wreath (aristocracy, Dublin city)
Irish Historical Fiction Famine and 19th Centure Marita Conlon-McKenna
International Reading Association Award Reading Association of Ireland Premier Award
Now on www.obrien.ie: a 15-minute FREE video, perfect for classroom use, about Under the Hawthorn Tree: with reconstructions, an author interview and commentry on the story.
Bisto Book of the Year Historical Novel Award
Children of the Famine Trilogy: ground-breaking, award-winning novels that take the reader into 19th century Ireland. Under the Hawthorn Tree (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
MARITA CONLON-MCKENNA is one of Ireland’s most popular children’s authors. Her first novel, Under the Hawthorn Tree, was an immediate bestseller and an international success, translated into 12 languages. Her other novels include The Blue Horse, No Goodbye, Safe Harbour, A Girl Called Blue and In Deep Dark Wood.
ALSO BY MARITA CONLON-MCKENNA
Fantastic FREE teaching materials for Marita’s books are available at www.obrien.ie
DVDs
Bring fiction and history to life in the classroom
Film is a fantastic learning resource, especially when it complements great works of historical fiction. Combine these DVDs with the books for a complete story experience! The Oscar Nominated Film!
Now on DVD!
A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN PRESS HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+ 19th Century
History, myth and legend collide in The Secret of Kells from Cartoon Saloon.
Film treatment of the acclaimed novel, produced by Young Irish Filmmakers. A free study guide to Under the Hawthorn Tree is available for download on www.obrien.ie
Faoin Sceach Gheal (Irish famine) Fields of Home (Land War) Under the Hawthorn Tree (Irish famine) Wildflower Girl (post-famine emigration)
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Irish Historical Fiction Early 20th Century Journey on board the ill-fated Titanic in this thrilling adventure
Truth is stranger than fiction ...
Fifteen-year-old Sam plunges to his death whilst building his beloved Titanic. Now as the greatest ship the world has ever seen crosses the Atlantic Ocean, Sam finds himself on board – as a ghost. But disaster strikes when Titanic hits an iceberg ... Can Sam’s spirit reach out to save the passengers?
Finbar Kennedy runs away from home in Queenstown (Cobh) to follow his sea-captain father onto the Lusitania. On the return journey from New York, Finbar works as a deck-hand, and running messages gives him a lot of information. He begins to understand that something strange is happening. But what can he do? And whom can he trust?
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
NICOLA PIERCE is a writer from Dublin. Her first novel for children, Spirit of the Titanic, has been a huge hit with readers since it was released. Nicola regularly travels to schools and libraries around the country giving talks and readings.
KEVIN KIELY has had several collections of poetry published and his plays have been broadcast on RTÉ; he is also engaged in literary journalism and editing. His first book for children was A Horse Called El Dorado.
A picture tells a thousand words: a hundred years on from the events that created our state, graphic novels are a fantastic way to bring history to life for modern children. Introduce your class to Big Jim and The Great Lockout ...
The story of James Larkin and the events of Dublin 1913 are brought to life in two gripping graphic novels and a narrative book. Big Jim focusses on the activities of Jim Larkin in organising Ireland’s biggest ever labour dispute. 1913 – Larkin’s Labour War focusses more broadly on Dublin and the life of its citizens at the time. Across the Divide asks what happens when your best friend ought to be your enemy: Liam’s father, a mechanic, is a proud trade union member, while Nora’s father is a prosperous wine importer. When Jim Larkin takes on the might of the employers in 1913, resulting in strikes, riots and lockouts, Liam and Nora’s friendship is challenged and their loyalties torn.
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The 1916 Rising and War of Independence, as you’ve never seen them before!
Blood Upon the Rose: An unlikely band of freedom fighters – teachers, poets, writers, patriots, trade unionists – declare an Irish Republic. From this dramatic gesture, a nation is born… ‘Brings the story of the struggle for Irish freedom to life in a way ... a school history book never could.’ Books Ireland
At War with the Empire: from the Declaration of Independence in 1919 to guerrilla warfare across the country and the groundbreaking signing of the AngloIrish Treaty of 1921. ‘Gets children into Irish history but through the graphic novel ... A super idea.’ Ryan Tubridy
Irish Historical Fiction Early to Mid 20th Century ear: k of the Y Bisto Boo rd a w A n Eilís Dillo
It is 1916. From the poverty of the Dublin N EW slums Jimmy Conway sees World War I as glorious, and loves the British Army for which his father is fighting. But when war comes to his own streets Jimmy’s loyalties are divided: his uncle is one of the rebels occupying the General Post Office. Dublin’s streets are destroyed, business comes to a halt. In an attempt to find food for his family, Jimmy crosses the city, avoiding the shooting, weaving through the army patrols, hoping to make it home before curfew. But danger threatens at every corner.
A home is bombed by a horde of enemy planes. A family has gone, with children left behind: This is the fate of five-year-old Peter and two teenagers Yuri and Tanya. Having to leave school to fight the terrifying Nazis in WWII, and surviving the heat of battle: This is the fate of four classmates, Vlad, Misha, Anton and Leo. The battlefield is the city of Stalingrad, the pride of Russia. A thrilling new book from the author of Spirit of the Titanic. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie Dublin, 1922. 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.
A sequel to The Guns of Easter. Sarah (Jimmy’s young sister) and her family are involved in the spying activities of Michael Collins during the War of Independence. Sarah, only eleven, cannot figure out why her family is so neutral towards the war and why everybody is so secretive. A strong rebel herself, she wants to do her bit for Ireland. Then she finds out the terrible truth – and she too carries secrets which could cost her her life.
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ear: k of the Y Bisto Boo rd a w A t Meri
Six stories, one set in Dublin and the others in the countryside, about children who get caught up in the War of Independence and suffer dire consequences. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘Excellent collection ... They will impel their readers towards new questioning as to what “war” actually is.’ Robert Dunbar, The Irish Times
Prize Peter Pan den) e w S Y (IBB
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. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘The writing is resonant and strong ... The gripping climax is compelling reading.’ Children’s Books Ireland
A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN PRESS HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+ 20th Century Spirit of the Titanic (1910s) Survivors (Titanic disaster) Across the Divide (1913 Lockout) Amelia (suffragettes) SOS Lusitania (World War I) No Peace for Amelia (World War I, 1916 Rising) Blood Upon the Rose (1916 Rising: graphic novel) The Guns of Easter (1916 Rising, World War I) War Children (Irish War of Independence) Katie’s War (Irish Civil War) Taking Sides (Irish Civil War) A Winter of Spies (Irish Civil War) Safe Harbour (World War II, London blitz) Secrets and Shadows (World War II, Ireland’s neutrality) Faraway Home (World War II, kindertransport) 17 Martin Street (World War II, Jewish children) City of Fate (World War II, Stalingrad) Stormclouds (Northern Ireland Troubles)
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Themes Other People and Lands 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 friendship, school life, families and cultural diversity. 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 www.obrien.ie/schools/themes
Other People and Lands Perhaps you are covering ‘The Arctic’ in Geography, ‘World War 2’ in History or ‘Citizenship’ in Social, Personal and Health Education? Your themes could be complemented and developed through their integration with English and the use of one of the following novels with your class… Benny Shaw is forced to leave his beloved Wexford, home of all his heroes, and move with his family to Tunisia! How will he survive in a place like this? Then he teams up with Omar, and a madcap friendship between the two boys leads to trouble, crazy escapades and heartbreaking challenges. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘Hilarious – there is hardly a page which will not have a reader laughing aloud.’ The Irish Times
When guerrillas come, Pepe must flee his blissful forest life to the city, leaving behind his favourite horse, El Dorado. His future looks grim until his Irish grandparents offer him another chance. But can thirteen-year-old Pepe go all on his own to this strange, cold land, the birthplace of his father? And what future awaits him there? Will he ever have the chance to ride his beloved horses again?
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Over three summers, Tyke journeys with his anthropologist father to the remote and icy wilderness of the Arctic with friendships and adventures ‘which Mum doesn’t need to know about’. 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. A book which will echo in the mind long after the Northern Lights have faded from the final chapters. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie As Hitler’s troops parade down the streets of Vienna, Karl and Rosa’s family send them on a Kindertransport, a refugee ship carrying Jewish children to safety. They end up in Millisle, Co. Down, which has become a refugee centre. But Northern Ireland is in the war too, with rationing and air-raid warnings. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘The most loved book I have ever read with a class.’ Teacher, St Paul’s N.S. Limerick
Joshua thought he was like all the other village boys, helping out at the market, making a little money from the tourists, getting up to mischief. When his life takes an unexpected turn, he discovers that being different does matter. Maybe it’s not enough to be just Joshua?
Yola’s leg is blown off by a landmine and her life in Africa is changed forever. She travels to Ireland to be fitted with an artificial leg and meets seventeen-year-old Fintan. They soon get involved in an international arms intrigue, and an adventure that will bring them both close to death.
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
‘The appeal ... is universal in its attempt to describe a child trying to find a place for himself in the world.’ Clare Morpurgo, The School Librarian
‘This powerful story ... takes a strong anti-war stance. Tackles difficult and complex issues with unflinching rigour.’ Kate Agnew, The Guardian
Find more books with this theme at www.obrien.ie/schools/other-people-and-lands
Themes Friendships If you are covering the themes of friendship or bullying during the year or holding a ‘Friendship Week’, consider exploring the following novels with your class. There are also numerous FREE teaching resources available at www.obrien.ie to aid in reading for meaning. Nine-year-old Adam 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 him out. But then a scruffy little starling comes into his life. This is Adam’s secret, his own special friend. But can Adam defend his small friend against the bullies? Will he find the courage he has needed all along? Free worksheets and teaching ideas on www.obrien.ie Eva likes fashion, fun and hanging out with friends, so she can’t believe she has to spend summer in a cottage in the countryside with her parents and eightyear-old Joey. Worse, it looks like she’s stuck with Kate, the girl who doesn’t care about being cool… Free activity sheets on www.obrien.ie ‘Curtin’s sense of … friendship issues is spot-on, especially regarding what’s important and how misunderstandings can throw things off course.’ Booklist.com
Lockie is a bit of a misfit. Orphaned, he is placed in foster home after foster home, but somehow he never settles in. ‘Troublemaker’ is the general verdict. He runs away and meets up with some colourful characters – Dadge and his strange friends Pasha and Mammy Tallon. For the first time Lockie doesn’t feel like an outsider. But others are out to wreck his happiness. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Life can be very complicated for a young man, especially when you get shown up by a girl! Babe, the village tomboy, is a force to be reckoned with and it seems Benny, the ‘townie’ who is visiting his grandfather in the country for the summer holidays has finally met his match! Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘This book has it all – an absorbing story, vibrant characters ... and an on-target narrative voice.’ School Library Journal
Jessie’s brother James has died. Her parents are lost in grief and she’s feeling isolated at school. Jessie can still see James and talk to him – or quarrel with him, more like! They always bickered when James was alive, so why change now? Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘The book’s themes cover clique mentality, bullying, family life and loss, things a teenage girl might go through ... Instantly accessible ... Could definitely be used as a class novel.’ InTouch Magazine
Ricky has withdrawn from the world into his own inner space. Placed in a foster home which is full of sunshine and goodness, he is uncertain how to become part of family life. He often retreats to his favourite hideaway, a special chair in the attic, and adopts the pose of the Moon King. From this situation relationships slowly begin to grow ... but it is not a smooth path and at times Ricky just wants to leave it all behind. Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
When her home is destroyed in the 1941 bombing of North Strand, Dublin, Grace Ryan moves to stay with relatives. She meets Barry Malone, a boy from Liverpool. They become friends when she protects him from bullies in their new school. Barry suspects their teacher, Mr Pawlek, of spying for the Nazis and soon enrols Grace in his attempts to find proof. But what starts as an exciting challenge becomes increasingly dangerous.
Ger Kelly, a tough twelve-year-old, sneaks into the Dublin Horse Show. There to cause trouble, instead he is captivated when he sees Suzanne O’Carroll and her horse Star Dancer: he longs to ride a horse like that. Suzanne arranges for him to groom her horse at the show every day, and so Ger begins the first job he has ever had. He has entered a magical new world. His pals make fun of him, but for the first time in his life Ger does not care what they think.
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching ideas on www.obrien.ie
Find more books with this theme at www.obrien.ie/schools/friendships
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Themes School Life Are you covering ‘Schools’ in your thematic unit of work, or ‘Continuity and Change over Time’ in History? Children will always relate to stories that involve school! The following novels can also be integrated into subjects such as SPHE, Geography, Drama, Art and Music. Don’t forget there are numerous teaching guides and activity sheets available online. The Big Break Detectives are three friends who run a detective agency from their secret headquarters underneath the school. They only have their half-hour lunch break to escape from the school, solve the mystery, and return unnoticed before the bell rings! The Casebook, filled with kooky asides and cartoons, features four stories full of humour and surprising twists. An exciting graphic novel for children of all ages.
Gene loves his life travelling the world with his famous grandfather, jazz musician Cherokee Crawford. Adventure, excitement, and his clarinet – what more could he need? Aunt Joan has an answer: a normal life, with rules and discipline.
When Ronan, the school bully, turns his attentions to Jack, Jack has to think fast to save his skin. He comes up with the idea of a tough, fearless, not-to-be-messedwith twin brother who, he says, attends a different school. But when the other boys doubt his claims, Jack’s twin needs to put in an appearance! The situation snowballs as Jack struggles to keep up the lie of being two people at once.
Grace and her four best friends are failed witches – and they have a notebook full of useless spells to prove it. But one night, they stumble upon real magical powers – and their notebook takes on a diabolical life of its own. The girls watch, helpless, as, one by one, their spells start to work, moving relentlessly towards the worst one of all …
‘Ms Mansfield has a wonderful ear for classroom banter. The book should appeal to readers of the nine to eleven age group, particularly boys.’ Books Ireland
‘Analyses the topics of traditional schooling versus the school of life, of growing up and making the right choices.’ Lollipops (USA)
Free teaching guide and classroom ideas on www.obrien.ie
Can Grace and her friends stem the wave of powerful magic … before tragedy strikes? ‘Written with a light touch and combines humour, fast-paced action and tension with strong dialogue and a convincing portrayal of friendship and school life.’ SLA Magazine
Find more books with this theme at www.obrien.ie/schools/school-life TEACHING RESOURCES
Loads of FREE teaching guides are available on www.obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today!
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Themes Family Relationships Whether you are covering the topic of sibling rivalry, wise grandparents, new families, adoption or foster care, even parental separation, there will be something in the following novels that will ring true for the children in your class. For a full list of themes and relevant novels, please visit www.obrien.ie/themes Where would you find talking snails, fighting queens, Welsh witches and winter sunflowers? In stories, of course, and Juliet loves them. On a holiday in France, she hears lots of stories, from her grandmother and from the toymaker who sells wind-up animals on the quayside. She wants to be a storyteller too, and soon she begins an adventure that turns into her very own story.
It’s Easter and best friends Alice and Megan are together in Limerick again. They are both looking forward to their confirmation, especially as their families are going out to dinner together to celebrate. But not even a meal can be simple when Alice is around. She decides to hatch a plan to get her parents back together ... Free activity sheets on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie Tom feels rejected by his father and finds a secret second family among the smugglers who trade in and around Roaringwater Bay. Tom doesn’t know it, but his father has had big losses in business, and in 17th century Ireland cut-throat interests control everything, and loyalty counts for nothing. From his new family, Tom learns about boats and smuggling – and secret treasure. And then he finds the best-kept secret of all ...
Larch Hill orphanage is the only home Blue knows. She arrived there just a few days old, wrapped in a blue blanket. Her dream is to find her parents and have a family of her own. Fostered several times, Blue can’t fit in. Is there no one who wants or loves her? She has friends, but they’re not family; they’re not enough. In her heart, Blue is desperate to find out who she really is. The closed file in stern Sister Regina’s office holds the secret to her identity. And that is forbidden territory ...
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Cindy, not yet over her mother’s recent death, is appalled when her father falls for one of her teachers who has two prissy teenage daughters. Cindy dislikes her prospective stepsisters, but they think she is an absolute horror – spoiled, arrogant and rude. Whatever about their mother marrying again, they can’t imagine being landed with Cindy as a sister ... no way! Two great books in one.
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. New friendships prove life-threatening when the simmering tensions in Northern Ireland erupt into violence in the summer of 1969.
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie Sophie and Hugh are left homeless when their house is bombed during the London Blitz. They are sent to stay with their grandfather in Ireland. Sophie is scared – they have never met Grandfather and his letters cause such trouble in the house. How will they live in a strange country with a man who probably hates them? And will their family ever be together again? Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘Without glossing over violence or partisan attitudes, the book delineates the conflict in an age-appropriate manner.’ Children’s Books Ireland Recommended Reads Guide 2013
Rich, spoilt Eva Gordon can’t understand why her parents are selling their holiday home and their expensive car. But when Eva’s dad loses his job and she has to move house and change schools, she realises life has changed for good. She’s determined to hate her new life, until a chance visit to a fortune teller gives her an idea. This is the story of Eva’s journey from spoilt princess to pretty cool girl! Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie
Find more books with this theme at www.obrien.ie/schools/family-relationships
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O’Brien Press real books: what children want to read! Where Can I Find O’Brien Press Books? 1. BOOKSHOPS AND SUPPLY CENTRES: O’Brien Press books are available in all good bookshops and school supply centres. If they do not hold a given title in stock, just ask: they will be delighted to order O’Brien Press books for you. 2. THE INTERNET: All O’Brien Press books can be bought directly from www.obrien.ie. They are also available from online retailers such as www.irishbooksdirect.com, www.thebookdepository.com and www.amazon.co.uk as well as education sites such as www.schoolbooksireland.ie, www.easonschoolbooks.com and www.schoolbooks.ie. 3. BUYING DIRECTLY: Orders can be placed by post, telephone, fax or e-mail: The O’Brien Press, 12 Terenure Road East, Rathgar, Dublin 6, 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. 4. PUBLIC LIBRARIES: All 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. 5. SCHOOL LIBRARIES: Most school libraries will have many of our children’s books. (Remember, if you do not have a school library, you can use our guide to setting one up: see www.obrien.ie/SchoolLibrary)