O'Brien for Schools 2012

for Schools 2 0 1 2 -2 0 1 3

A comprehensive and easy-to-use guide to O’Brien Press children’s books and how to use them in the classroom

TEACHING 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 realise 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.

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.

O’BRIEN FOR SCHOOLS CONTAINS: Details of hundreds of FREE TEACHING RESOURCES created by teachers for teachers to support O’Brien Press books  Information on NEW BOOKS from O’Brien Press for all class levels from 4 years to 12 years+

NEW BOOKS Lots of great new books for all reading levels and abilities!

 Four-page comprehensive THEMATIC BREAKDOWN of all O’Brien Press books for ease of use in the classroom  Samples of TEACHING SUPPORT MATERIALS for all reading levels and abilities

READ ON! 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 added all the time.

17-173-3 ISBN 978-1-847

Where the Stones Sing

pb

ISBN 978-1-84717-277-8

Dancing in the Dark

Féile Fever

Eithne Massey

JOE O’BRIEN

Teaching Guide

RATIONA LE

AND

THEMES

second book featuring a Féile Fever is the with The story continues and Danny Wilde. adventures, challenges series of fresh his dad Mick and dilemmas for Danny, Crokes G.A.C. his friends at Littlestown Danny with success The story presents and in equal measure and dilemma sensitivity to respond with of challenges him , in the best tradition and composure hip.

G.A.A. sportsmans is for the action Although the context themes have a the distinctly sporting, a wide and will engage broad appeal audience of children.

and Todd become Although Danny join is reluctant to friends, Todd football. or play Gaelic Littlestown Crokes are taken on when the class That changes Park and the G.A.A. a visit to see Croke

They to the age group. and a direct relevance jealousy, resentment include rivalry, family break-up. of the story provides The sporting context issues and y to discuss the to the opportunit alternative responses examine positive a safe and neutral them through

museum. to and quickly proves environment.

Todd is converted, e.g.

Crokes’ to Littlestown in a trusted forum; be the solution can Class discussion conflicting views and punch. lack of power Circle Time; where most to would be the for the Crokes be presented, It is now too late however, when appropriate. salvage the league, in at the asks then to step POINTS circumstance they have DISCUSS ION host the Féile, and Todd last minute and Splinter Danny y to restore both opportunit (Read p45): the perfect Trinity and Lowry their reputation. are watching their pride and when Splinter are playing tennis, What belief for the Crokes self candy’. and ‘eye as Success of the Féile describes them do the 1st round he means? How restored during to the do you think that to be their way through The themes include: girls might feel as they battle success you think the that Dealing with this? Do you think semi finals. described like the Keeping secrets appears to desert way to describe it is a respectful At this point, fortune of Jonathan’s sister, Family break-up a friend girls? and them. Trinity, Danny sees of both Todd Rivalry 87 & 92): When catches the attentions impress her.

(Read pp t distracted try to Resentmen Danny and both Trinity; he is completely e on the her to the cinema, concentrat Jealousy When Todd takes and unable to taunts has s to his provocative do you think this Why Forgivenes A Danny reacts game. father. be lying about is what might he Gender awareness accusing him of happened and and the you advice would Todd storms off row develops. thinking? What and him regain his field a weakened SUMMAR Y Crokes have to give him to help in the final without G.A.C. has been disheartened team composure? of Littlestown Crokes to Trinity despite the efforts Todd has lied him.

(Read p 94): he promoted; however A they are Why do you think has one final twist.

Mick and Jimmy, about his dad. their coaches, in the The story, however, to see you think it was an impression ride and a chance lied to her? Do unable to make ces? wild horse back find these circumstan allows Todd to wrong to lie in league. things differently, own dad and Jonathan When Mick hears on with both his both Danny and (Read p 128): reconciliati to Even the skills strange them Todd’s the punch for Danny describe a with Danny. cannot provide a full outburst, he made level. When Barry half display by behaviour and Todd’s his compete at this A tantalising second him all about Todd, forward breaks decision to tell now including Sweeny, the Croke’s this was either strength team, the Chapel passion, a collision with dad. Do you think and confirms the do you collar bone in restores pride them even hip that the fair of him? What or weakening sportsmans wise and Hall’s goalie; commitment have said to Danny in the league now think he could ? further; their prospects Féile has promoted. any confidence humiliating. without breaking look bleak and provides a solution APPROA CH Providence, however, talented the story deal Todd Bailey; a themes supporting The a in the form of have and that football player sensitive issues with a range of Australian Rules class in school.

Teaching Guide new pupil to Danny’s

1

Féile Fever

Rationale & themes Dublin in 1348 is a bustling port. The inhabitants are preoccupied with daily life; however, They are also superstitious, always ready to condemn anything that appears unusual.

Even the tranquillity of Christ Church masks division.

When plague strikes the city, signs are sought for anything that will explain the pestilence.

Into this cauldron come Kai and Edward, strangers and outsiders: Kai to sing in Christ Church’s choir and Edward to train as a stone mason.

But Kai has a secret – she is masquerading as a boy. When her secret is uncovered, Kai finds herself tested by the fury of superstition.

The story is a charged with adventure which spans the spectrum of emotions from trust and justice to superstition and cruelty.

The themes include: Prejudice Discrimination Injustice Trust Courage Friendship Suspicion Superstition & Beliefs Relationships Power & Corruption

Summary Kai and Edward accompany their father Ned, a trickster, to Dublin. While the children sing for pennies in the streets, they meet Bro. Albert and Dame Maria who offer to recruit Kai to Christ Church’s choir.

Ned is surprised but agrees to let Kai stay

Where the Stones Sing

and join the choir. Edward tells his father that he too wishes to stay in Dublin and become an apprentice stone mason.

Ned returns to the road, promising to return either if danger appears or if Kai’s secret is discovered.

Kai appreciates the peace and order of Christ Church after life on the road, becoming friends with the other choristers, Tom and Jack. However, she is unable to make friends with Roland; his cruel teasing and superior attitude raising an impossible barrier.

When not singing, Kai, Jack and Tom share adventures on the bustling streets and docks of Dublin.

Everything changes when the plague breaks out and affects each of their lives.

Edward is unjustly accused of theft and is forced to leave the stone masons.

Traumatised by the tragic death of her dear friend Jack, Kai seeks refuge singing alone in the cathedral where her voice seems to draw an accompaniment from every child who has ever sung in the cathedral – from the very stones of the building Unseen, Roland witnesses this strange chorus and learns Kai’s secret – that she is a girl. Seizing his opportunity, he denounces her as a witch.

Eager for a scapegoat, the townspeople believe that Kai’s witchcraft is the cause of their woes and Kai is condemned to be burnt at the stake.

As the fire is prepared, Ned suddenly appears and eloquently guides the mood of the crowd towards reason. Kai demonstrates the power of the voices in the stones and Bro. Albert denounces those who would call it witchcraft. The voices enchant the crowd and their mood softens. Defeated, her accusers slip away.

1

5-6 pb

AST

Teaching Guid e

By Peter Heaney

By PETER HEANEY

ISBN 978-1-8 4717-18

P.R. PRENDERG

Teaching Guide As a girl Kai can no longer sing in the choir, but is overjoyed when Dame Maria asks her to live with her.

appRoach The story tackles several SPHE issues, specifically discrimination.

Whole class and small group responses will facilitate discussion and the development of ideas and thinking skills.

The activities and discussions suggested will lead to responses covering a broad range of communication forms.

The activities have been divided into three sections to facilitate the development of the story.

Unit 1 Settling in pp7–69 summaRy Kai and Edward are about to abandon their singing as futile when an insult from a Christ Church chorister provokes a fight.

Bro. Albert intervenes and then proposes that Kai join the Christ Church choir.

Edward too decides to remain in Dublin as an apprentice stone mason and Ned returns to the road.

Kai makes friends quickly with Tom and Jack; her erstwhile sparring partners; however, she finds it impossible to make friends with Roland, who had provoked the fight.

Kai settles into the routine of the priory, careful to mask her true identity. Becoming friends with Dame Maria, she learns of the tragic drowning of her son Philip.

Brother Albert teaches the children and shows Kai the many wonders of the cathedral. Kai decides to ignore Roland’s

Teaching Guide

By PETER HEANE

Y

RATION ALE

AND

THEME S

This is a story expressed about and the effects they are affected relationships and how of bereavem on relation by bereavem ent bullies ships, persona grief. James, ent and and Jess realises perspectives.

Jess’s lities and from his reaction a ghost; although brother returns to her that he will become an as Supporte easy target. d opportun as he was when he can still be as irritating James has ities to explore he was alive, express their now begun and class, sustain her Jess is able to own views relationship to through offering commen appear to Jess in and with him until directed discussio experiences much finds closure she reflection for her sense to her amusem ts on the lessons, n, persona and circle-tim of guilt and and is ready ent. Howeve l pain of loss to create e routines will to let him go. her grief is r, the the environm help recalls still very close The themes ent where the desolatio as she be encourag include: they n of the time will ed to express

his death and Loss safely their and explore his first appearan between own feelings

ce to her. on death and Louisa is the Death The guide grief. centre of is divided into

attention rehearsals begin, three sections Bereavement before reflect the modelling development to boyfrien

a ring that of the story. d Richie has Bullying her bought for his betting

her from win.

Friendship UNIT 1

Jess is isolated Ambition by their intimida “Missing me everyone is

tion Jealousy as reluctant yet?” to challeng openly; she e Louisa “Almost...” recalls the day SUMM ARY Amanda staged her public humiliation PAGES 9 and summar evicted her This is the poignant – 77 from their ily group. yet witty tale SUMM ARY dancer, and James confides of Jess, a how she comes to Jess that the sudden to him death terms with lonely; he Jess is finishing has left death of her misses the her homewo older brother road traffic companionship of life. This brother James rk when her in a accident. The mirrors Jess’ appears. He story follows own feelings school dance her exile from died earlier six the on months team’s preparat in a road her friendshi accident, National Finals, p group and effect on ion for the unable to but seems its her confide where Jess complete the is on the bench as a sub. determines nce. James transition to after life to remedy the and has this and begins apply his taken instead Louisa, the appearing to to his sister talented lead to bolster sports psychology experience Jess. dancer, is jealous of Jess and exchanges Jess’s confiden to employs bullying veil the bewilder Their caustic ce. in an attempt that they both ment and loss and exclusion Rhona has made a very to force her feel. public statemen off the team. her allegianc Jess, however Jess is unable t of e to Jess who, , refuses to to confide and by the braced by be intimidat in her aprents Supported about James’s this quiet, unobtrus ed. by her friend appearance her mum, ive support as she’s anxious constant and Alan and that they might begins to of the at times irritating misinterpret build indifference the ghost of state. advice from her mental to the bullying. a strategic her brother James she can see However family At school she – she succeeds – who only life is distracte the bullies in outwittin to their bereavem is far from reconcile d by the routine and by her to establish d friend Rhona. ent and Jess her own credentia g as a dancer. watch, helpless When they the new boy, can only ls meet and impoten Alan, they tries to cope t, as her father are not impresse and offer him with his huge d some survival APPRO ACH loss. being new advice about to the school DISCUS SION Working with uniform should and how POINTS the this be worn. sensitive approach book will require (Read p 19): Jess is a sub a Is it really that as many of on the school may have importan indeed healthy however this personal experienthe children dance team; to belong exclusive t or is still too close themes involved one group? ce of the ly to Amanda , for Louisa and What are the . the lead advantag disadvan dancers and The text es / tages of allowing erstwhile friends. offers a Jess’ When they be associate yourself to wide range opportu nities practice in interrupt her d with one of the gym to explore group only?

Why do you themes of the central she is not welcome they make it clear that think that people death; how expect you on the team. generally grief can to belong to Alan encounte be Dancing in a group?

(Read rs Richie and the Dark pp 28 – 30): his gang of Richie and have singled his thugs Alan out for 1 intimidation;

Check out www.obrien.ie/TeachingGuides

Teaching Guide

RESOURCES AVAILABLE FREE FROM WWW.OBRIEN.IE ACTIVITY SHEETS

YOUR SCHOOL LIBRARY

HUNDREDS of FREE activity sheets, created by 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/ActivitySheets

Get great advice and suggestions on setting up and maintaining a fantastic library in your school – available FREE at www.obrien.ie/SchoolLibrary

ACTIVITY SHEET

ISSUED FREE. Created by Gillian Perdue Based on Conor’s Cowboy Suit by Gillian Perdue ISBN 0-86278-778-5 © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie

Cowboy Songs WHERE IS HURLING STRONGEST? The MacCarthy Cup is the senior Hurling trophy and the O’Duffy Cup is the All Ireland Camogie Cup. Some counties tend to win these trophies more often than others (see

ALFIE GREEN: MY FAVOURITE

The Wise Old Plant has told Alfie to collect something from every story to help him to remember what happened, and then bury each object beneath the Crooked Tree.

Cowboys love to sit round the campfire and sing late into the night.

Write a song for Conor to sing.

You could begin with the words: A PICTURE OF WHAT I WOULD REMEMBER IT BY ...

Yippee yiy yay, what a great day!

On the map of Ireland colour in red the counties which have won the MacCarthy Cup more than 5 times colour in blue the counties which have won the O’Duffy Cup more than 5 times.

Some of the counties will have to be coloured in both colours.

Read pages 55-64

ACTIVITY SHEET NO 9 Katie was very sorry for ruining her Auntie’s birthday cake. Imagine that you

Sligo Mayo CONNAUGHT

Are Hurling and Camogie strong in the same areas?

How would you describe the pattern of Do you have a favourite where Hurling and Camogie are strongest? memory of your own? Write Can you explain the pattern? a description of your Write your explanation in the box below. favourite memory in the first box.

are Katie. Write a letter to Auntie Susan telling her that you are very sorry for what happened.

Galway

I’M VERY SORRY

Limerick

Clare

If you could choose one thing to remember it by, what would that be? Draw a picture of the special object you would choose to in the second box.

Cork Kerry

Dear Auntie Susan,

By Peter Heaney. Based on All About Gaelic Football and All About Hurling. © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie

with love from Katie

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

By John Doherty. Based on Katie’s Cake by Stephanie Dagg.

ISBN 0-86278-617-7 © 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.

REAL BOOKS FOR SCHOOLS Check out this fantastic integrated Reading Programme based on over 80 books – make O’Brien Press books work for you. Find out more at www.obrien.ie/ReadingProgramme THE

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DEIR Ó GRÁDAIGH ...

BILLEOGA SAOTHAIR

Lámha suas.

Ar do bharraicíní.

Lámha amach.

CAD ATÁ Á RÁ ACU? Ní dhéanfaidh mé rud mar seo arís!

Lámha ar do cheann.

Oscail do bhéal.

Bí ag rith.

Seas ar do chos chlé.

Léim san aer, lámha suas.

Suigh síos ar an urlár.

Lámha taobh thiar díot.

Beirt le chéile.

Cos dheis amach.

Lámha taobh thiar díot.

Crom síos.

Lámha ar do bharraicíní.

Tusa Ó Grádaigh! Bain úsáid as na horduithe seo chun an cluiche a imirt.

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!

12:06

Rebecca’s life is g ruined – again!

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Cóipcheart © Cló Uí Bhriain 2002. www.obrien.ie

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about an awful girl of Rebecca’s

the hunt i on ...

age. She MUST convince the world it’s not her!

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But who is

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r Stag ag of s in danger. n aree rate race esperate befo f re fo eath,, before nted… hunted…

20th April 1910

enture adventure ssey, author Kells and ends d. ds Legends.

A date Samuel Joseph Scott will never forget.

The day he died.

The greatest ship the world has ever seen crosses the Atlantic with Sam’s ghost trapped on board.As disaster strikes, can Sam’s spirit reach out to save a family locked below deck?

Tel: +353 1 4923333; Fax: +353 1 4922777; Email: books@obrien.ie; www.obrien.ie

A chilling new adventure that brings the Titanic’s only voyage to life.

Teachers!

The O’Brien Press Ltd, 12 Terenure Road East, Rathgar, Dublin 6, Ireland.

Tel: +353 1 4923333; Fax: +353 1 4922777; Email: books@obrien.ie; www.obrien.ie

Cóipcheart © Cló Uí Bhriain 2002. www.obrien.ie

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nts your stude e ien.i Navigate www.obr ing towards FREE teach ic to find Titan on the materials

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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, log on to www.obrien.ie/CoverGallery

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Specialised activity sheets for reluctant readers, specially developed by resource teachers. Available FREE at www.obrien.ie/DiscoveryChallenge TheRealRebeccaA2.qxd:Layout 1

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

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One Book, One Community

COMMUNITIES all over Ireland, led by schools and libraries, have been coming together to coordinate extraordinary learning experiences for students. Called ONE BOOK, ONE COMMUNITY projects, these diverse and interactive projects range in length, activity and focus but all work towards one goal - encouraging a love of reading.

Built around one specially chosen title, ONE BOOK, ONE COMMUNITY projects combine reading, writing, art, technology, drama and many other aspects of the curriculum to give students a complete literary experience. As well as helping them develop literacy skills, it also gives them a lasting appreciation for the art of storytelling and books.

Nicola Pierce’s debut novel Spirit of the Titanic was chosen for many ‘One Book, One Community’ projects in 2012, the Titanic centenary year.

Nicola is just one of our authors who has taken part in projects this year, attending launches, wrap-up parties, readings and workshops.

Some of the fantastic books which schools have chosen for One Book, One Community projects: ISBN: 978-1-84717-196-2 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Hardback 80 pages

ISBN: 978-0-86278-685-4 PRICE: €6.95/£5.99 FORMAT: Paperback 160 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-279-2 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 256 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-190-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 240 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-286-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 208 pages

Looking for a great book for your project?

The O’Brien Press recommends:

For advice, guidance and tips on setting up ONE BOOK, ONE COMMUNITY projects, to request an author to visit or for great promotional materials, contact us today at

publicity@obrien.ie

ISBN: 978-1-84717-207-5 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 256 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-202-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 256 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-350-8 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 256 pages

‘We could not have made the project as successful as we did without the help and support of O’Brien Press’ Mary Collins, Home School Liaison Officer

Bridging Cultures, Building Reading Success

AN EXCITING SERIES OF MULTI-CULTURAL AND INTER-CULTURAL BOOKS FOR CHILDREN, IDEAL FOR CLASSROOM USE The Dreaming Tree by Eithne Massey

Olanna’s Big Day by Natasha Mac a’Bháird

Back home in Brazil, Roberto loved playing the world’s best football! Now he lives in Ireland and he’d really like to have a game with the boys in the park, but he’s too shy. Maybe his granny’s Brazilian story of the dreaming tree can help him!

There’s great excitement when the school band is chosen to march in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, but as the big day arrives, disaster strikes! With a little help from her granny back in Nigeria though, Olanna saves the day!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR ISBN: 978-1-84717-158-0 EITHNE MASSEY is the author of the children’s PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 novels The Secret of Kells, The Silver Stag FORMAT: Hardback of Bunratty, Where the Stones Sing and for 32 pages younger readers, Best-loved Irish Legends.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR ISBN: 978-1-84717-171-9 NATASHA MAC A’BHÁIRD is a writer and PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 editor. She is the author of The Irish Bride’s FORMAT: Hardback Survival Guide. This is her first book for 32 pages children.

I Won’t Go to China by Enda Wyley

The Romanian Builder by Peter Prendergast

Chang-ming has been picked for the school team but his family will be in China then, visiting his grandma. It’s not fair! ‘I won’t go to China,’ he decides. But what about Grandma? And isn’t a visit to China the most exciting thing ever?

Joe has so many questions for the new builder and is really disappointed when he finds out that Radu doesn’t speak any English. Now he will never find out about building – or will he?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR ISBN: 978-1-84717-105-4 PETER PRENDERGAST works in Dublin as PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 a teacher. His first work of fiction for older FORMAT: Hardback children, Dancing in the Dark, was nominated 32 pages for the 2011 Bisto Children’s Book of the Year Award.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-159-7 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Hardback 32 pages

ABOUT THE AUTHOR ENDA WYLEY is an author, poet and teacher.

Her book for young readers, Boo and Bear, is in the O’Brien Panda Cubs series and she has also written The Silver Notebook for readers aged 10+.

A NOTE FOR TEACHERS Bridges celebrate Ireland’s ethnic and cultural diversity, shedding light on our common and contrasting experiences. These beautiful full-colour hardback books with high-quality stories and engaging illustrations can help children with their understanding of other cultures and of the many different experiences of living in Ireland today. The series collectively won a Reading Association of Ireland Award.

‘These thought-provoking books will be of immense value to teachers, parents and of course children’ Inis Magazine

FOOD REAL CHINESE available in just those that are

few ingredients, usually garlic, Chinese cooking uses sauce, sesame oil, ginger, eg soy sauce, oyster cheap, cook every Chinese kitchen are easy to grow, are Five Spices. Vegetables go well spring onions and full of nutrients, and hot woks, are tasty, southern China. in a short time in very food, especially in an important staple in northern with rice which is from wheat, especially staple food, made people a Noodles are another feasts as a way of wishing birthday at served and duck or China, but are also at special banquets, is expensive and served long life. Seafood at very special meals. goose would be used

st) Mainland (communi Chinese New Year. th Both in Ireland usually celebrate Day is 10 October.

Chinese people living Taiwan’s National and the Chinese n is 1st October and at home or in restaurants National Day of Celebratio r from rs hold their own parties and invites the ambassado Taiwanese and Mainlande Year parties in restaurants e holds annual New Chamber of Commerc thin pancake. a in others. wrapped and Duck, slices of duck the People’s Republic dumplings, famous dishes is Peking of jiaozi (wrapped One of Chinas’s most – families make hundreds would keep a few meat in much of China past many families Pork is the favourite Eve feasts, and in the pork) for New Year’s with filled usually meat for festivals. be killed to provide pigs which would

by Enda Wyley.

Won’t Go To China Wong. Based on I Recipes from Lucy Ltd www.obrien.ie The O’Brien Press © Copyright reserved.

The Dreaming Tree ISBN 978-1-84717 -158-0

hb

Eithne Massey Teaching Guide

By PETER HEANEY RATIONAL E A N D THEMES

BRIDGING CULTURES, BUILDING READING SUCCESS

Roberto finds the confidence to adapt to and participate in ACTIVITIES his new surroundings, and is able to offer his own gifts and 1. A Friend for Roberto talents without fear of rejection.

(Read pp 8 – 9) Roberto The approach should wants to be emphasise that friends with the other everyone has both children in his talents and the class; however he potential to contribute is not sure how to effectively, begin. Can you help especially where him? What sort of circumstances might things should he say limit or discourage or do and what participation as was should he not do? the case with Roberto.

Use a class brainstorm Whole class strategies to make a list of all and discussion-led the things you think group work should might help him and provide an effective then in small groups focus to examine pick the three things the issues from the that you think will story. help the most. You could make a little DISCUSSIO N POINTS DO & DON’T CARD (Read P5): Fergus never asked for him and decorate it with a helpful Roberto to play. Do picture. you think he was being mean or did he just not think about asking him 2. The Cúpla Focal to play? What do you think Roberto (Read p 7) Roberto should have done can speak two himself and why do languages, English you think he did and Portuguese. How not do it? many languages are spoken in your (Read pp school?

13 – 15): Amanda was a good dancer and Roberto thought If you had children in your school who that she was ‘showing did not speak English, off’. His mum what do you think said that she wasn’t the five most useful ‘showing off’ and phrases that you that it was OK to be proud of things could learn to say in another language that you can do. Who to make them feel welcome do you think is would be? right? When do you think that being Do you think that proud of something you could get the you can do phrases translated becomes ‘showing and write them out off’? on a chart with a picture to show what is (Read p16): Why do you think being said? Do you think that you could Roberto hated to look different from practise them until you could say them everyone else? How easily? did he try to hide his embarrassmen t? Can you think of other ways 3. Five Gold Stars that people might behave if they were embarrassed?

(Read pp31 -32) Roberto pulled off What could you do his if you thought jacket to show his green and yellow that someone you knew was jersey with the five gold stars – his embarrassed about something?

Brazilian football top. Today he is playing as a striker for Ireland.

Can you use your imagination to write a short match report to describe what is happening?

The Dreaming Tree is a gentle story, which examines how insecurity in a new and strange environment can limit the opportunities for integration and participation.

The essence of the story falls within the SPHE range of issues and examines the way self image can dictate how we perceive our circumstances . The story also shows how support and encouragement can energise a positive self image and provide the courage to take control of any circumstances.

The themes include: Self image / perception

Bridges can be used as the basis for projects or class learning about different cultures. They are an invaluable resource for the Resource Teacher, the Learning Support Teacher and the EAL Teacher, and equally to the classroom teacher engaging with the mainstream curriculum.

See the full range of Bridges resources at www.obrien.ie

Courage

Cultural pride Integration & participation

Anxiety

Avoidance strategies Support and encourageme

Taking the initiative.

nt

SUMMARY

Roberto is unable to take the first step towards integration with his new environment. His younger sister, Amanda, has already begun to make new friends, but Roberto is finding it more difficult. It is only when he speaks on the telephone to his granny in Brazil, and she reminds him of the Legend of The Dreaming Tree and the Jaguar King, that he finds the courage to seek his own Dreaming Tree. This sets in motion a chain of events that lead to him achieving his ‘heart’s desire’.

APPROACH

Roberto’s story is a universal tale of loving family support; with his family’s support,

The Dreaming Tree

1

Teaching Guide

Rhymes, Stories, Myths and Legends

A captivating and beautifully illustrated collection of the best-loved traditional Irish stories, including ‘The Children of Lir’, ‘How Cúchulainn Got His Name’ and ‘Oisín in Tír na nÓg’. A book to be treasured.

New

A beautifully-illustrated collection of favourite nursery rhymes known and loved throughout Ireland.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-211-2 PRICE: €14.99 /£12.99 FORMAT: Hardback 64 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-313-3 PRICE: €11.99/£10.99 FORMAT: Paperback/96 pages Published in association with the Dyslexia Association of Ireland

ISBN: 978-1-84717-176-4 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/32 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-203-7 PRICE: €9.99 /£8.99 FORMAT: Paperback 36 pages

Beautifully-illustrated collection of favourite nursery rhymes from one of Britain’s greatest illustrators, Margaret Tarrant.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-235-8 PRICE: €12.99/£10.99 FORMAT: Hardback/32 pages

Bring history to life with The Secret of Kells picture book.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-122-1 PRICE: €12.99/£10.99 FORMAT: Hardback/64 pages

Traditional Irish legends retold with a fresh approach, brought to life with stunning full-colour illustrations. Ideal for all classes, either as a self-read or for reading aloud.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-237-2 PRICE: €4.99/£3.99 FORMAT: Hardback/64 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-881-0 PRICE: €19.95/£16.99 FORMAT: Hardback/96 pages ISBN: 978-1-84717-184-9 PRICE: €9.99/£8.99 FORMAT: Mini Hardback/ 96 pages Irish Children’s Book of the Year (Irish Book Awards 2008) Shortlisted for the Reading Association of Ireland Awards 2009

A fascinating overview of Irish history from the Ice Age to the present day. It’s the ideal book for teaching your class all about the island of Ireland and our eventful and exciting past.

‘Deserves a place in every school and home library’ InTouch Magazine

TEACHING RESOURCES We’ve made it even easier for you to use The Story of Ireland in your classroom – check out all the innovative new teaching resource materials now available FREE from www.obrien.ie/TheStoryofIreland.

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

Senior Infants/Year 1: Reading Level 4+

At 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.

An exciting series of full-colour illustrated books for young children – ideal for reading with a child or helping them to begin reading on their own.

Where Reading Begins …

‘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/OrangeFlag today PRICE: €5.99/£4.99 FORMAT: Paperback 48 pages Full colour

Colour a beautiful One Stone Castle ... selection of pictures Two Irish Wolfhounds … from the world’s most Add some Hurleys and Tin famous illuminated Whistles and you get a whole lot manuscript. of counting fun!

Perfect for practising numbers one to ten in both Irish and English ISBN: 978-1-84717-278-5 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/32 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-274-7 PRICE: €6.99/£5.99 FORMAT: Paperback/32 pages

Need something a little more advanced for your class?

First Class/Year 2: Reading Level 5+

are specially designed to introduce the beginner reader to the wonderful world of books.

With exciting stories, lots of illustration and simple text, pandas have proven highly popular with young readers, both in Ireland and abroad.

With quirky characters and original stories, pandas are also perfect for older readers who may have difficulties learning to read.

For more great

see www.obrien.ie

‘… These easy stories with their simple texts and lively illustrations should encourage even the most recalcitrant reader’ Sunday Independent

ISBN: 978-1-84717-195-5 PRICE: €5.99/£4.99 FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

Emma the Penguin is written by bestselling author Sarah Webb

‘Should appeal to children learning to read, including older children who are struggling.’

The School Librarian

Check out all the great ABOUT THE AUTHOR BRIANÓG BRADY DAWSON works as a primary school teacher. Her first book, Granny’s Teeth, was published by The O’Brien Press in 1998 and became a No.1 bestseller. She has now written 11 Panda books, including Danny’s Pesky Pet and Pageboy Danny. In 2011, Fiacla Mhamó and Danny’s Smelly Toothbrush also became No. 1 bestsellers.

by Brianóg Brady Dawson featuring the mischievous Danny who always ends up in trouble, even when he’s trying to be good!

First Class/Year 2: Reading Level 5+

‘O’Brien Legends series provide 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

Like all O’Brien pandas, are ideal for beginner readers, with exciting stories and illustrations throughout.

With new tales and old legends retold, are truly magical!

PRICE: €5.99/£4.99 FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

TEACHING RESOURCES

For lots of great books at this reading level, visit www.obrien.ie/PurpleFlag

Activity Sheets

At The O’Brien Press, we recognise the importance of teaching support especially at younger reading levels.

That’s why we have hundreds of FREE Activity Sheets available, including nearly 40 different specialised Activity Sheets to support the panda series, so when you choose an O’Brien panda you know you’re not just getting a book; you’re getting a whole teaching support package. O’Brien 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/ActivitySheets Reading Programme Our Reading Programme includes inter-disciplinary teaching ideas for 20 Panda books. Available FREE at www.obrien.ie/ReadingProgramme

ACTIVITY SHEET 7 PAINTED BUTTERFLIES Katie was upset when her caterpillars turned into butterflies.

She thought butterflies were silly!

But butterflies are beautiful. Here are some pretty ones for you to make.

www.obrien.ie

Danny ’s Hidden Words Monster Bury Picnic Loo Fetch

Bristles Teeth othbrush Toothbrush rk Park nd Pond

Help Danny to find these words in the box below

Materials: • sheet of paper • paints Method: 1. Fold your piece of paper

m

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along the middle and then open it out again.

2. Now paint one butterfly’s on one half of the paper.

wing

Use plenty of paint. Remembe r to paint half the butterfly’s body next to the fold.

3. Before the paint dries,

fold the paper along the fold line you have already made. Press down hard once the paper is folded.

5. You will find instructio

ns on how to make these butterflies or ‘foldies’ in Starting Art, ACTIVITY Book SHEET 1 by Mary Carroll and Katie

Long. ISBN: 0-86278-607-X, £8.99pb

4. Open the paper out carefully.

You will see a beautiful

butterfly with two wings exactly the same!

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

ISSUED FREE. Created

by Patrice Aggs Based on Ducks in Trouble

by Patrice Aggs ISBN 0-86278-738-6 © Copyright reserved.

The O’Brien Press Ltd

www.obrien.ie

Pintail wants to be a real musician. What type of music will See if you can find he play? what instruments and clothes he needs 1. An orchestra to be in: 2. A pop group 3. A carnival band 4. A marching band

By Liz Morris, . Based on Katie’s Caterpillars by Stephanie Dagg ISBN 0-86278-572-3 © Copyright reserved. The O’Brien Press Ltd www.obrien.ie

Second Class/Year 3: Reading Level 6+

O’Brien Yellow Flag books are ideal for First & Second Class/Year 2 (P2) & Year 3 (P3)/Key Stage 1. These 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 which go beyond simply showing what is in the text, for a more complete reading experience.

Rea

CHA PTER 2

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

gy Gog gles Gra nda d’s Dod around outside,

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!

We walked posters. It was sticking up the the umbrella very wet, but I held he stuck them as over Grandad up.

15 16

‘The lively characters keep the Mad Grandad series enthralling’ BookFest

PRICE: €5.99/£4.99 FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

‘Zany illustrations and crazy fun’ Primary Times

more O’Brien Flyers s t o l r o f e i . .obrien e challenge can take on th ho Visit www w s er ad re t nfiden ‘Ideal for co pendent y’ Sunday Inde of a longer stor e of ers a real sens at will give read th s rie se lly jo ‘A arian The School Libr achievement.’

TEACHING RESOURCES Activity Sheets We’ve got lots of teaching support materials for O’Brien Flyers and Mad Grandad books including over 45 Activity Sheets, available to download for FREE from www.obrien.ie/ActivitySheets Reading Programme The O’Brien Reading Programme has detailed classroom notes and helpful suggestions and ideas for working with Yellow Flag books: download for FREE from www.obrien.ie/ReadingProgramme GOING POTTY – FLYER 1

by Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Woody Ed’s Gran has a great imagination, and so has Ed himself. She can create toys from discarded objects, he can invent endless uses for them. But his imagination runs riot when he is confronted with the big boys’ toilet in school: He pictures a frog living in the toilet, he visualises shoes banging down the corridor with legs and no boys on top. The potty had once come to the rescue of Great Uncle Pat, can it now help Ed?

RY CHAL LEN

GE

Myself and others: Myself and other people.

LANGUAGE – ENGLISH

Exploring bullying behaviour and its effects, discuss Ed’s fears of the big boys (pp.38–40), his classmates laughing (pp.44–45), his embarrassment (pp.46–48).

SESE – SCIENCE

Living things: Myself. Recognising that all living

things grow and change, that physical growth has taken place since birth, that there are differences in children’s range of abilities and skills.

Materials: Mixing and other changes.

Investigating how materials may change: Mixing paints to make new colours (p.64), materials to

SESE – HISTORY

older relations talking about their past, comparing the early life of grandparents with lives of young today, noting differences and similarities (pp.19–23).

VISUAL ARTS

Tile painting: Brighten old bathroom/kitchen tiles

cut out themed magazine pictures or old photos and add to border, varnish.

* If you don’t have access to a laminator, use sheet of clear a contact to cover your photo or picture. But be very careful with this, as it’s very easy to end up with air-bubbles on your picture.

Smooth the contact over your photo very slowly to avoid having air bubbles.

EXTRA

Read about the history of the jigsaw puzzle – log on to www.mgcpuzzles.com /mgcpuzzles/puzzles_h istory Audrey Devereux is a resource teacher in a Dublin school.

O’BRIEN READING PROGRAMME

GE

with design in enamel paints, use as teapot stand.

Mirror, mirror: Using an old mirror frame/tile,

RY CHAL LEN

personal dates and events, how I changed as I grew up, first day at school or in new class, using items of evidence such as photographs and first copybooks.

When my grandparents were young: Listening to

1. Picture or photograph 2. marker, soft pencil and ruler 3. laminator (use only with the help and in the presence of an adult). *

Method:

Use your marker and ruler to divide your picture or about 3cm. Draw photo into squares lines in pencil first, and when of lines are even, you are happy go over them that your in marker.

Ask an adult to help you to pre-heat the laminator. place your lined When it is ready, photo in a laminating sheet and run machine. Never it through the do this without a grown-up present.

Cut the laminated picture along the lines and squares on your page.

Challenge your friends to make your jigsaw – make though! sure they don’t eat it

THE DIS COVE

make toys (pp.7, 10) and characteristics of materials when wet and dry (p.9).

Myself and my family: Exploring significant

SPHE

Myself: Developing self-confidence. Becoming more independent and self-reliant, asking for help when needed (pp.30–32, 50, 52–53).

Myself: Feelings and emotions. Naming, identifying and exploring feelings in different situations: When I changed classes. Fear of the unknown, need for privacy, growing and changing (pp.26–28).

Myself and others: Myself and my family.

Recognising role and contribution made by each member of the family, identifying ways in which families help, support and care for each other (pp.50, 53, 61, 63–64).

Flyer 6 ISBN 0-86278-688-6

GE

Vocabulary extension: Disguised, cubicle, ambulance, permission, realised, giggled, rhymed, dinosaur.

Language of movement: Tapped, dragged, nodded, clattered, blinked, stared, hugged.

Discussion: Possibilities. Children suggest imaginative uses for common household objects (p.10).

Discussion: Children discuss their favourite/ special treats, when given, by whom, why.

Creative: Pretending games. Using dressing-up box/bag with hidden objects, children use power of imagination to invent strange characters and personalities, miming or acting story around selected outfit/object.

THE DIS

Jigsaw Stew Conor McHale

In Jigsaw Stew, Jack’s family turned into jigsaw pieces of the strange after they ate stew. some Make your own jigsaw using any photo of yourself, pet or holiday. or of your family You could also or use cartoons, cut from a newspaper advertisements or pictures or magazine. If you can, try to you select for your jigsaw on enlarge whatever a photocopier or scanner.

You will need:

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THE DIS COVE

ISBN: 0-86278-602-9 • �5.50 pb • 64 pages

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Second Class/Year 3: Reading Level 6+

Magic and adventure with d by Recommende ergy Bord Gáis En r Book Club fo er 2012 Read Togeth

Selected ading for the UK Re mer m Su ’s Agency nge le al Ch g Readin 2011

Shor tlisted ok for the Irish Bo 10 20 ds ar Aw

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!

Winner e Book Best Chocolat rmand ou G d, in Irelan ok World Cookbo 10 20 ds ar Aw

‘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, Tiger Boots 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 L GIFT and the MAGICA

7-041-5 ISBN 978-1-8471

pb

JOE O’BRIEN

Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney

memories of you have any special you feel good someone that make SUMMARY them?

N D THEMES and it is his when you think of RATIONAL E A is nine years old the of Alfie Green Alfie can talk to and surprised to the magical world Read pp.70-71. birthday. He is excited These books present this ability a secret who has they create a plants. He keeps that his granddad, is Alfie Green. Together gift. It Do you think it world of discover left him a special from everyone. recently died, has wonderfull y humorous secrets? Are all and animated book. always good to keep out to be a magical turns exaggerated characters some secrets are the or is same the magic secrets the his granddad thought flora. Woven through do you think it is child Alfie knew that good or bad? When mischief that every but he didn’t realise essential thread of and secret? plants were special, he wrong to keep a Alfie is irrepressible, they were until will identify with. of quite how special they tackle a series with his friend Fitzer, opened the book. comic invention. with he ACTIVITIES adventures book, zany opens the The first time Alfie him are aimed at the Plant, who helps Although the books meets the Wise Old The themes are universal 1. Alfie’s granddad the Ancient Book. younger reader, the sign his name in granddad was very and vibrant resource Afie how to recover Read p.10. Alfie’s and will create a rich gave Wise Old Plant tells and activities, talk to plants and from special. He could with his name on it for class discussions think it the Crystal Orchid themselves to gift. What do you Tree in Arcania.

Alfie this magical particularly lending isn’t the top of the Crooked drama, visual arts like to meet him? He world on the other would have been development through Arcania is the magical in the book. Pretend main themes are: potting shed. described in detail of and literacy. The side of Alfie’s granddad’s write a little profile bereavement that you are Alfie and Dealing with friendly garden of him if you like. the help of some With of him. Include a drawing attentions Bullying avoid the tools, he is able to Supporting others recover the Orchid.

Crooked Tree hazardous flora, and strategies birthday 2. The his for time in Developing coping Tree stands in the Alfie makes it home now Read p. 57. The Crooked he finds that he is Emotional well-being and holds the Crystal celebrations where in his middle of Arcania to all the plants a picture of Trust / Self esteem Draw branch. able to talk freely Orchid on its top use?

Following rules colours will you garden. the tree. What your magic tree so use Feelings a is it Remember DISCUSSIO N POINTS imagination. wasn’t sure APPROACH pp.12-13. Alfie of Read was good or bad. written as a series 3. The Gift whether the magic These books are the ahead and open gift. He can talk to Each is a discrete He decided to go Alfie now has a special adventures for Alfie. them. If you you think this was of the character to book anyway. Do the plants and understand what would story. For the richness do you think he did a series approach magical gift, wise of him? Why were to be given a develop, however, What does it mean why you would Activities and it to be? Explain so if he wasn’t sure? should be considered.

When, why you like each would use it? are suggested for when you trust someone? think you want it and how you discussion points do you are suggested at and which people book and overall activities to meet you who have read a number should trust? the end for those his 4. Pleased Alfie has just lost Alfie went to Arcania Read pp.30-33. of books in the series. his Read pp.6-40. When how be of memory the first time. It can granddad; but his characterisation within he met the tools for for makes him The pace, plot and to meeting new people enough for them granddad liked gardening think that a little awkward the books are versatile do you or to sort of things should feel less sad. Why individual readers the first time. What be used either as to feel less sad? Do memories help us as a group. be read to the class

Teaching Guide Alfie Green and the

Magical Gift

1

ALFIE GR EEN: CR EATE YO OWN CH UR ARACTE R Alfie Gree n meets lots interestin g character of adventur s on his es, now he’d like invent a you to new one!

You will need to decide if character your is a plan t or an anim and whet her al, or Arcania. he lives in our worl d Think abou he or she t whether is a frien dly an unpl easant one. character or You can base your even character on your you like! self if Use the boxes prov ided to draw picture of your a write a descr character and iption of in your him or her copybook . Don’t forge give your t to character a name!

By Peter Heaney. Based © Copyri on the Alfie ght reserve d. The O’Brie Green books by Joe O’Brie n Press Ltd www.obrien.ie n.

ALFIE GREEN and the Fly-Trapper

7-072-9 ISBN 978-1-8471

pb

ALFIE GR EEN: MY FRIEND ALFIE

JOE O’BRIEN A PICTURE

OF MY CHA

RACTER

Complete the pictu re of Alfie .

Pretend that you are writing a descriptio Fitzer and you are n of your friend Alfie First, use the box below to ideas in write your and then use the bottom box at the of the page to write descriptio your n.

Teaching Guide

By By Peter Heaney

ACTIVITIES SUMMARY

side tin of mag gots 1. Look on the bright A forgotten Bobby came home into an unpleasant metamorphoses Read pp.8-11. When for the Green he looked miserable. plague of flies from his fishing trip the volume of flies your smiley faces in household. When Draw two large Fly Trap plant smiley overwhelms his Venus write into each copybook. Then sad help of magic and Alfie enlists the that make you either face all the things of an eight employs the services Giant or happy. toothed all headed, razor for your day and list problem with the Make out a time line Fly-Trapper. The Draw a smiley face but now Alfie has the things you do. flies is quickly sorted whether they make Giant Fly-trapper beside each to show do a new problem. The If you count them appetite and when you sad or happy. has an insatiable faces than sad ones? cat from next door you have more happy Mad Aggie Walsh’s Alfie takes the appears on the menu, around returns 2. Flapping advice and Wise Old Plant’s very of The magpie was the Belching Bogs Read pp.12-16. the Fly-Trapper to dealing when he couldn’t belongs, panicked he and frightened Arcania where with the attentions get out of the kitchen. with along the way a prickly headed, mime his actions could you of a giant worm and think Do you your Bullying eyed, stumpy Be careful during snout faced, beady as he flew around?

Nanabur.

Supporting others actually knock things legged, foul breathed strategies mime that you don’t the Developing coping people. Remember, over or bump into hit anything.

Emotional well-being magpie didn’t actually DISCUSSIO N POINTS do you Trust / Self esteem If someone is sad Read pp.8-11.

Can Following rules 3. Warning! Warning! tease him or her? think it is right to warning outside the way to cheer them Feelings Read pp.51-54. The you think of a better in Arcanian. mines was written up? the Nanabur it.

It was very dark in the plant could read APPROACH Only pp.51-54.

Read

of How the dark is so written as a series strange language. mine. Why do think These books are Write a sign in a would people? Are there Each is a discrete sure that people frightening for some adventures for Alfie. would you make all share? What can of the character to sign? Think of the any fears that we story. For the richness know it was a warning their fears? a series approach and their size and people do to overcome develop, however, colours of the letters Activities and The Wise Old Plant should be considered. shapes. each Read pp.27-37. clear rule about how are suggested for gave Alfie a very discussion points are suggested at Fly-Trapper. Alfie to handle the Giant book and overall activities attention and the who have read a number didn’t pay enough the end for those it Why do you is rule was broken. of books in the series. rules What rules? characterisation within important to follow The pace, plot and apply to your to enough for them do you think should the books are versatile or to individual readers class? be used either as as a group. be read to the class

N D THEMES RATIONAL E A

of the magical world These books present they create a Alfie Green. Together world of wonderfully humorous and animated exaggerated characters the magic is the flora. Woven through child mischief that every essential thread of and Alfie is irrepressible, will identify with. of they tackle a series with his friend Fitzer, invention. comic zany adventures with are aimed at the Although the books themes are universal younger reader, the and vibrant resource and will create a rich and activities, for class discussions themselves to particularly lending drama, visual arts development through are: main themes and literacy. The bereavement Dealing with

Teaching Guide 1

IDEAS

‘MY FRIEN

D ALFIE

’ BY FITZ

ER

By Peter Heaney. Based © Copyri on the Alfie ght reserve d. The O’Brie Green books by Joe O’Brie n Press Ltd www.obrien.ie n.

Book Title

For more great books at this level, visit www.obrien.ie/YellowFlag today

Title Here Second Class/Year Third & Fourth Class/Year 4 & 3: 5: Reading Reading Level 6+ 8+

Introducing Marco Moonwalker

by Gerry Boland

The latest adventure with Marco, a rather remarkable bear! When Patrick discovers that Marco is a musical genius, he has a great idea.

They form a band, The 3Ms, and Marco, in cape and mask, becomes a huge star! But then disaster strikes ...

Chosen for gy Bord Gais Ener Club Online Book 2012

New ISBN: 978-1-84717-301-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Hardback/64 pages

These beautifully illustrated, heart-warming stories are perfect for sharing with the class or for independent readers.

Irish Book Award Nominee

‘Very touching and well written tales’ The Irish Times ‘Great humour and an easy to read story’ Inis Magazine

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.

Marco Moonwalker is the latest adventure with this rather remarkable grizzly bear.

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 fourth annual ‘Design-a-Cover Competition’ was a huge success with thousands of entries. Winner Alicia Premkumar created this colourful cover for the brand new edition of Siobhán Parkinson’s classic Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (Maybe).

A big well done to all who took part!

Beverley, Elizabeth, Gerard and Kevin set off on a trip to explore the island off the coast – but they get more than they bargained for!

ISBN: 978-0-86278-515-4 PRICE: €7.95/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback 192 pages

Want to see your design on the cover of a book? Then enter our 2012 competition! This year’s title is Adam’s Starling by Gillian Perdue. Full competition details at www.childrensbooksireland.com

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Club

Title Here Groundbreaking Graphic Novels

And now it’s time... to solve some crime!

Ideal for The Big B reak Dete reluctant ctives are and her b t h rother, To ree schoo readers m. l friends, From the Danny, Ka ir secret b te ase wrongs, u nravel my under the schoo l, t steries an break! d nab evil hey solve crimes, right doers – a An excitin ll on their g graphic lu nch novel for mind-bog children o gling mys f a ll ages wh teries: The Case o ich includ f the Phan es four tom Lollip op Lady Th The Case e Case of t of the Sa he Rude Pa botaged rrot Circus The Case o ISBN: 978-1-84717-252-5 f the Invisib le Penguin PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 s FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

AND FOR MORE CONFIDENT READERS More crime-solving capers from the dangerously talented Alan Nolan, in the Murder Can Be Fatal Mystery Series

New New ISBN: 978-1-84717-257-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: pb/80 pages

New ISBN: 978-1-84717-256-3 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: pb/80 pages

With four hilarious whodunnits, the Murder Can Be Fatal Mystery Series will encourage even the most reluctant reader to find out what happens next!

ISBN: 978-1-84717-255-6 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: pb/80 pages

ISBN: 978-1-84717-254-9 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: pb/80 pages

ABOUT THE AUTHOR ALAN NOLAN is a County Wicklow-based comic artist and co-creator of the comic Sancho. He is the creator of The Big Break Detectives Casebook, a graphic novel for younger readers, and the Murder Can be Fatal mysteries. He is a regular visitor to schools and other events where he enjoys sharing his work with young readers.

ONLINE RESOURCES Follow the trail to Alan Nolan’s fabulous graphic novels sites - www.bigbreakdetectives.com, www.murdercanbefatal.com and www.bwa-ha-ha-ha.com O’Brien Press has lots of great resources to download FREE at www.obrien.ie and we are also on Twitter and Facebook!

You can follow us @OBrienPress and like us at www.facebook.com/TheOBrienPress

Fifth & Sixth Class/Year 6 & 7: Reading Level 10+

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 true testament to their quality and popularity.

Can you trust ANYONE in a time of war?

ALSO BY BRIAN GALLAGHER

When her home is destroyed in the Luftwaffe bombing of the North Strand, Dublin in 1941, Grace Ryan has to move in with relatives. There she meets Barry Malone, a Liverpool boy sent to Ireland to escape the terrible air raids on his native city.

A friendship develops and a summer of fun stretches before them in the sports club run by Mr Pawlek. But Barry begins to suspect Mr Pawlek of spying for the Nazis, and he and Grace attempt to find proof. What starts as an exciting challenge becomes increasingly risky, and soon their very lives hang in the balance.

New

ISBN: 978-1-84717-350-8 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/256 pages

Ne

Free Teaching Guides for all three books available from www.obrien.ie

ABOUT THE AUTHOR BRIAN GALLAGHER is a full-time writer whose plays and short stories have been produced in Ireland, Britain and Canada. He is a scriptwriter for RTÉ television and is the author of four novels for adults. His latest book is the eagerly-awaited Secrets and Shadows. He is also the author of Across the Divide and Taking Sides, which have both been chosen for many ‘One Book, One Community’ projects. Across the Divide is set during the 1913 Dublin Lockout - the centenary takes place in 2013.

Journey on board the ill-fated Titanic in this thrilling adventure

‘That calm, sunny day is one I’ll always remember ... because the twentieth of April, in the year 1910, was the day I, Samuel Joseph Scott, died.’

the Selected for ency’s UK Reading Ag ing Summer Read 12 20 e ng Challe

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.

His spirit roams the ship, and he shares the excitement of Jim, Isobel and their children – on their way to a new life in America. Disaster strikes when Titanic hits an iceberg. As Titanic sinks to her icy grave, Jim and his family are trapped behind locked gates … Can Sam’s spirit reach out to save them?

ISBN: 978-1-84717-190-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/240 pages

Free Teaching Guide available from www.obrien.ie

DID YOU KNOW? Sam is based on a real person, a fifteenyear-old boy who died while building the Titanic. A headstone was erected on his grave in Belfast for the first time following the publication of Spirit of the Titanic, a century after his death.

‘This breathtaking book takes you on the deck of the Titanic with its amazing descriptive language’ Guardian Children’s Books Online ‘Masterful narrative’ Evening Echo ‘Beautifully handled ... beautifully written’ BBC Arts Extra ‘Pierce immerses us in the hope, despair and life lessons of Titanic’s ill-fated voyage’ BookFest ‘A stunning debut ... beautifully written, exciting book’ Verbal Magazine

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 first released in Spring 2011. Nicola regularly travels to schools and libraries around the country giving talks and readings. She took part in many events nationwide to mark the centenary of the sinking of the Titanic in 2012. Spirit of the Titanic has been chosen for many ‘One Book, One Community’ projects around the country. Readers are eagerly awaiting Nicola’s second novel for children which is due to be published in 2013.

Fifth & Sixth Class/Year 6 & 7: Reading Level 10+

Smuggling, adventure and a lifelong secret

New

ALSO BY MORGAN LLYWELYN

Set in the 17th century, this is a story of smuggling, adventure and Tom’s growing independence. Tom is lonely in the Big House, but he finds a new family from whom he learns all about the sea – and about smuggling. But can he abandon his own family when they are in trouble? And what is the big secret his mother has hidden from him all his life?

ISBN: 978-1-84717-207-5 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/256 pages

Visit www.obrien.ie for more great historical fiction The most famous Irish legend of all – the tale of the great battle between the warrior Cúchulainn and his friend, Ferdia.

A new school, a new sport, an old mystery ...

Eoin’s 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 just who is this guy, Brian, who looks so out-of-date, but gives great rugby advice?

New

New on e diti

ISBN: 978-1-84717-288-4 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT:Paperback/112 pages

Visit www.obrien.ie for more great sports fiction including:

ISBN: 978-1-84717-333-1 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/208 pages

To see the full range of free Blue Flag teaching resources, visit www.obrien.ie/schools

ISBN: 978-1-84717-164-8 PRICE: €9.99/£7.99 FORMAT: Paperback/240 pages AGE: Young Adult Fiction/Age 12+

‘I am fifteen and I’m losing my brother. A ghost has stolen him. I know how crazy that sounds. But my brother, my twin, is going to die. No one else can see what is happening. What can I do? The answers seem to lie within the memory of a dream. Within the Grey.’

Congratulations to Celine Kiernan! Her latest novel, Into the Grey, won the prestigious Children’s Books Ireland Book of the Year Award 2012 and the CBI Children’s Choice Award 2012, the first time ever an author has won both of these awards for the same book. The CBI Children’s Choice Award was voted for by special Junior Juries from schools, libraries and book clubs from around the country.

Fifth & Sixth Class/Year 6 & 7: Reading Level 10+

From bestselling children’s author Judi The fantastic follow-up to the smash hits Eva‛s Journey and Eva‛s Holiday

New

Curtin

ISBN: 978-1-84717-224-2 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/272 pages

Eva always tries to help people, but this time her friend Kate might have a problem that’s too big to solve … unless there’s a way Eva’s exciting trip to London can help her sort things out for everyone …

ISBN: 978-1-84717-347-0 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/272 pages

If you’ve got a problem, just leave it to Eva!

ISBN: 978-1-84717-280-8 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/272 pages

Winner Best Family/ okbook Children’s Co rmand ou G d, an el Ir in ok bo ok Co World Awards 2010

Nominated ok for an Irish Bo 10 20 d Awar

‘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: Alice Next Door, Alice Again, Don’t Ask Alice, Alice in the Middle, Bonjour Alice, Alice & Megan Forever, Alice to the Rescue and Alice & Megan’s Cookbook as well as See If I Care, with Roisin Meaney. Leave it to Eva is the follow-up to Eva’s Journey and Eva’s Holiday. Judi is also the author of three novels for adults: Sorry, Walter!, From Claire to Here and Almost Perfect. Alice & Megan Forever was nominated for an Irish Book Award.

School just got scary ...

The exciting debut novel from Erika McGann

New

ISBN: 978-1-84717-295-2 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/256 pages

Grace and her four best friends, Jenny, Rachel, Adie and Una, 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 their spells start to work, moving relentlessly towards the worst one of all …

Can Grace and her friends stop the wave of powerful magic before tragedy strikes?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Erika McGann grew up in Drogheda and now lives in Dublin. The Demon Notebook is her first book.

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Fifth & Sixth Class/Year 6 & 7: Reading Level 10+

Fantastic FREE teaching materials for Marita’s books are available at www.obrien.ie

Marita Conlon-McKenna

Marita Conlon-McKenna is one of Ireland’s most popular children’s authors and has written many bestselling books for children. Her first novel, Under the Hawthorn Tree, became an immediate bestseller and an international success when published. It was translated into 12 languages and over 200,000 copies have been sold in Ireland alone. It won the International Reading Association Award (1991), the Reading Association of Ireland Premier Award (1991) and the Österreichischer Kinder- und Jugendbuchpreis (1993). Its sequels, Wildflower Girl and Fields of Home, complete the Children of the Famine trilogy. Marita’s other children’s novels include The Blue Horse, No Goodbye, Safe Harbour, A Girl Called Blue and In Deep Dark Wood. The cover of Under the Hawthorn Tree/Faoin Sceach Gheal was designed by award-winning illustrator P.J. Lynch. A new edition of Faoin Sceach Gheal was published in 2012.

New edition

Scéal éachtach ar an Drochshaol, agus ar thriúr óga a sháraíonn gach guais lena linn.

New

ISBN: 978-1-84717-653-3 PRICE: €7.99/£6.99 FORMAT: Paperback/176 pages

ALSO BY MARITA CONLON-MCKENNA

All three titles in the Children of the Famine trilogy presented in a beautiful collectable set.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-292-1 PRICE: €14.95/£12.99 FORMAT: Paperback/256 pages

For more details on these and other great novels from O’Brien Press, visit www.obrien.ie/BlueFlag

DVDs Bring fiction and history to life in the classroom

The Oscar Nominated Film!

Now on DVD! Film treatment of Marita Conlon-McKenna’s acclaimed novel, produced

by Young Irish Filmmakers.

A free study guide to this film and the book is available for download on www.obrien.ie

Film is a fantastic learning resource, especially when it compliments great works of historical fiction, such as Under the Hawthorn Tree by Marita Conlon-McKenna or The Secret of Kells by Eithne Massey.

Combine these DVDs with the books for a complete story experience!

History, myth and legend collide in The Secret of Kells from Cartoon Saloon

ISBN: 978-1-84717-318-4 PRICE: €14.99/£12.99

ISBN: 978-1-84717-249-5 PRICE: €19.99/£18.99

TEACHING RESOURCES We’ve got hundreds of FREE teaching resources created specially for teachers by teachers to support O’Brien Press novels in the classroom.

The O’Brien Reading Programme for Schools TEACHING GUIDES O’Brien Press Teaching Guides are invaluable offers detailed suggestions on how to use real classroom assets offering support to ‘guided books in the classroom in a cross-curricular and reading’ in the classroom. integrated way. Written by primary teachers, it A They offer: offers teachers variety and choice and helps to: • Select real books for your classroom • Overviews of the major themes addressed • Section summaries • Plan oral work for language classes • Suggestions for development activities • Plan cross-curricular work • Discussion points • Develop interesting and worthwhile extension All O’Brien Press Teaching Guides are available work based on class reading material Fugitives!

ISBN 978-1-84717-202-0 pb

Aubrey Flegg

Teaching Guide

By PETER HEANEY

RATIONALE A N D THEMES

MELIA

SIOBHÁN PARKINSON

Teaching Guide

By Gillian Perdue

RATIONALE A N D THEMES This

is an enthralling historical novel, set at the turn of the century amid rumours of approaching war and rebellion. It is suitable for the senior cycle in primary schools and junior cycle in secondary schools because of its subject matter and its treatment of important themes, such as: A young girl’s coming of age

Developing responsibility Friendship and fairweather friends Structure of society and development of a social conscience Parental fallibility The growth of feminism Sibling relationships

SUMMARY

FREE to download at www.obrien.ie/ TeachingGuides

The story begins with 12-year-old Amelia Pim absorbed in planning her birthday party. She has a doting father, a loving, though distracted, mother and an irritating younger brother, Edmund. The family are Quakers and live in modest luxury in Kenilworth Square in Dublin. Amelia’s mother is a suffragette and attends rallies and demonstrations demanding votes for women, much to Amelia’s disdain.

Though the Pims have servants, it is a family rule not to make life difficult for them and, as Quakers, they have a strong social conscience and involve themselves in charitable works. A new servant, Mary Ann, has just commenced working for the Pims. She is close to Amelia in age, but worlds apart in terms of maturity and responsibility. She is a nationalist and has a brother in prison. She and Amelia become friends. The story

gathers pace rapidly as the family fortune is lost and the house has to be sold. Mama is arrested and imprisoned for her part in a demonstration.

Edmund becomes ill with pneumonia.

Amelia transforms before our eyes into the lynch-pin of the family. She nurses Edmund, comforts her father and examines the world through new eyes.

She confronts her own prejudices about poverty and equality. The young woman she becomes is far removed from the cosseted girl we met at the beginning of the story.

APPROACH For the purposes of this

exploration, the novel has been divided into five main sections, covering four or five chapters at a time. The pace at which the novel is read is entirely up to the teacher. It may suit to read one chapter per day or in larger blocks.

Discussion points and activities are listed at the end of each section.

Fugitives! is a story about how friendships and loyalties can be tested by events and circumstances. Following the tradition between Norman and Gaelic families, Fion O’Neill, nephew of the Irish chieftain Hugh O’Neill, has been fostered to the Norman De Cashel family. He and the De Cashel children, James and Sinéad, have become like siblings. Sir Malachy De pb ISBN 978-0-86278-352-5 Cashel had supported Hugh O’Neill at the Battle of Kinsale, but was pardoned by the King when the Irish were defeated.

However, Sir Arthur Chichester, the Lord Deputy of Ireland, has decided now to extend his influence and has set about a policy of ‘divide and rule’.

James, Fion and Sinéad must decide where their loyalties lie as they witness for themselves the effects of Chichester’s policy. formidable fashion, the old TheQuaker main themes of athe story are: link with the past. We learn lady and Loyalty was structured at the turn how society Friendship century, with people knowing of the Courage their ‘place’ and children being seen Pride and not heard. Amelia is to have a real Honour her birthday. She first dreams party for Forgiveness is then given the most perfect of and Refugees of emerald green silk. She dress Mary Ann, the new servant, Greed befriends and learns of patriotism and the Irish

SUMMARY Brotherhood.

Republican

James, Fion and Sinéad struggle to realise pp.11–55. destiny and to survive in Readtheir seventeenth-century Ireland, a country DISCUSSION POINTS racked used by danger. the orangery as her Amelia need hideout. special Though they Why have would been she friends since Do you quietly? get away and tochildhood, theythink must now take sides as a similartoneed? ever theyfeelstruggle find and save Hugh Amelia’s Mama was think do youson, Why O’Neill’s Con. a ‘great disappointment to her in many The story is driven by intrigue and a ways’? determination to save Con from Sir Arthur Chichester.

ACTIVITIES

RITE AN ACCOUNT 1. WFugitives!

UNIT 1

PREPARING FOR A PARTY SUMMARY We meet the Pim family: Amelia, who is dying to be a Young Lady; Mama, dynamic and distracted, socialist, feminist and champion of the poor; Papa, handsome and noble and king of his business empire; and Edmund, already delicate and focus of Mama’s greatest tenderness and concern.

There is also Grandmama, dressed in

Papa has surprised the family by buying a motor car. On p.23, he mentions some other forms of transport. Make a list of the various forms of transport used at the turn of the century. Write an account of the invention of the motor car.

2. WRITE A REPLY Mary Ann observes that ‘other people’s religion could be a touchy subject’. Do you agree with this statement? Write a reply, giving reasons for your answer.

3. METAPHORS A metaphor compares two things, without using the word ‘like’ or explaining the

APPROACH

The guide is divided into four sections to reflect the main transitions within the story.

The story itself is rich with opportunities to identify and examine the consequences of taking alternative actions, and also provides many wonderful moments to relate to characters and events.

Although the story has an historical plot, the themes are universal and lend themselves easily to discussion of contemporary issues: eg refugees and colonialism. The story also offers a child accessible context to examine some of the divisions that exist within modern Ireland.

UNIT I

The Secret War PP9–76

SUMMARY

James De Cashel’s sleep is troubled. Hugh O’Neill, the Earl of Tyrone, and his young son, Con, are asleep, and James resents their presence and the friendship that Hugh and his own father have.

At dawn, Con manages to slip out of the castle, hoping to visit the Pale. He is drawn further into the Pale than he realises and comes face-to-face with Sir Arthur Chichester.

Meanwhile, James has taken his concerns to his tutor, Dr Fenton. Fenton proceeds to turn James against Hugh. He sends James off to vent his frustration on Hugh’s nephew Fion, who has lived with the De Cashels since he was a child.

Though the boys have often quarrelled, today there is something different in James’s needling of Fion. Before Sinéad can intervene, the boys go to settle their quarrel by fighting a duel.

In the Pale, Con discovers that Chichester

1

is leading a troop to capture his father. To avoid being curfewed in the town, Con is forced to guide them. He manages to escape, but he gets lost in the woods until he meets a strange man, who looks like a beggar though he’s a poet, who directs him; Con calls him ‘Haystacks’.

Sinéad chooses this time to ask Hugh to prevent the boys’ duel. She is alarmed when he lets them fight, because she doesn’t know that the armourer has given them blunted swords. James disarms Fion, but both boys realise that their quarrel isn’t over.

Sinéad seeks out Fion, and they discuss the poisoned atmosphere. They realise that James has fallen under the evil influence of Dr Fenton. Sinéad confirms their suspicions when she discovers Fenton spying in the papers in Hugh’s room.

As Sinéad confides her suspicions to Hugh, Con reaches the De Cashel castle with the news of Chichester’s approach. The castle erupts in a frenzy as Hugh makes preparations to leave immediately.

DISCUSSION POINTS (Read pp20–21): Fenton has persuaded James that it is acceptable to tell some of the truth only. Do you think it is honourable to deceive someone by telling part of the truth? How do you think Fenton manipulated James so that he accepted what he said? What questions do you think James should be asking himself about their relationship?

(Read pp28– 29): When Sinéad releases Saoirse into the air, it seems as if she is able to fly with the bird and escape her prison for a while. Why do you think Sinéad believes she is imprisoned? What do you think she is trying to escape from? If you were to dream of escaping, can you describe what you would like to escape from?

Teaching Guide

The O’Brien Reading Programme is available

FREE to download from www.obrien.ie/ ReadingProgramme

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

PRICE: €5.99/£4.99 FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

BILLEOGA SAOTHAIR

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

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• Ceathrú chun meán oíche.

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Foghlaim an véar agus tarraing pictiúr deas!

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ag fógairt on lae.

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ÉADAÍ

Dhá ghrúpa sa

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uirthi.

Mamaí stocaí teolaí amháin le: Chuir teolaí Tosaíonn grúpa Chuir Mamaí stocaí grúpa leis an liosta: Cuireann an dara uirthi. agus buataisí dearga ghorm fhada ...) a: hata beag, scaif shampl (mar Chuir Mamaí ...

IOMLÁN. AR AN LIOSTA ÍONN SMAOIN A BUANN AN GRÚPA Cóipcheart ©

www.obrien.ie Cló Uí Bhriain 2002.

Tarraing isteach

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SEANFHOCAL n an t-ocras.

Is maith an t-anlan

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Uí Bhriain 2002.

‘Tarraing cathaoi sa phictiúr.’

ll an mhadra

www.obrien.ie

Cóipcheart © Cló

Uí Bhriain 2002.

www.obrien.ie

Leabhair Gaeilge

An enjoyable and practical way to learn the first essential words in Irish! most picture word books. It Hide and Speak Irish goes further than

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.

ISBN: 978-1-84717-147-4 PRICE: €9.99/£8.99 FORMAT: Paperback/32 pages with wipe-clean fl aps

• • • • •

‘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

The ‘Hide and Speak’ system has been established as an effective language learning tool Wipe-clean flaps can be used over and over again Each section has nine 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

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.

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!

ALSO IN THIS SERIES: ÉASCA PÉASCA by Áine Ní Ghlinn

ISBN: 978-1-84717-047-7 PRICE: €6.95/£5.99 FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

ABOUT THE AUTHOR ISBN: 978-1-84717-245-7 PRICE: €6.99/£7.99 FORMAT: Paperback/64 pages

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.

Themes in O’Brien Press Books Why use O’Brien Books in your school? O’Brien books are real books. Written as fiction for young readers, many have won awards and more have been acclaimed by distinguished reviewers.

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. Now, in response to requests from teachers, we have listed below some of the many themes or subject areas dealt with in some of our most popular novels. The topics or themes suggested are just some of the many you will find in our books, and are intended only as a starting point or possible guide when selecting a class novel.

General Books We have included some titles from our general book list where these are accessible and appropriate for use in schools.

Why so few themes for Panda Cubs, Pandas or Flyers? As in-depth exploration of novels generally begins only in the middle and senior classes of primary school, we have not included many Panda Cubs, Panda, Flyer or SOS titles in the lists below. We take these books very seriously: the books in these series are often the first, and therefore arguably the most important, books the very young reader will read independently. Most of the books from these series have strong characters who, with (or despite!) help from family and friends, stretch the limits of their worlds and assert their own independence, often in a humorous and fresh way. We included titles from these series in the lists below only where we felt that a theme was particularly relevant.

ADVENTURE BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

And the Blood Flowed Green Death by Chocolate Destination Homicide Mr Bear’s Picnic Sailor Bear Six Million Ways to Die PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

Muckeen and the UFO YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and the Chocolate Cosmos Mad Grandad and the Kleptoes Mad Grandad and the Mutant River Mad Grandad’s Flying Saucer Mad Grandad’s Robot Garden Mad Grandad’s Wicked Pictures RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Charlie Harte and his TwoWheeled Tiger The Great Pig Escape The Big Break Detectives Casebook BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Across the Divide The Battle for the Castle Beyond the Cherry Tree Call of the Whales The Castle in the Attic Cave of Secrets Chill Factor The Demon Notebook Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) Fugitives!

In Deep Dark Wood The Island of Ghosts The Last of the Fianna Lockie and Dadge The Lost Island The Mystery of the Mountain Red Hugh Secrets and Shadows Shakespeare’s Scribe The Shakespeare Stealer The Silver Stag of Bunratty Spirit of the Titanic

Taking Sides The Táin Where the Stones Sing The Wish List GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

Edda Million Dollar Gift The Rebel Prince Truth Seeker

ANIMAL LIFE BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

What Are Friends For? Whose Ears?

The World is Full of Babies ORANGE FLAG (READING AGE 4+)

Cinders The Timid Rabbit PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

Ducks in Trouble Katie’s Caterpillars My Dog Lively YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and a Sink Full of Frogs Blue, Where Are You? The Hedgehog’s Prickly Problem!

RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

The Great Pig Escape Mo Mhadra Beoga An Rún Mór BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Call of the Whales Sky Wings Star Dancer

BOY/GIRL/TEEN RELATIONSHIPS

Benny and Babe Blue Lavender Girl Chill Factor Copper Girl Faraway Home Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) Hazel Wood Girl Johnny Coffin School-Dazed Katie’s War No Peace for Amelia

Out of Nowhere See If I Care Sisters Star Dancer Taking Sides The Wish List GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Chieftain’s Daughter The Cinnamon Tree Epic Million Dollar Gift The Real Rebecca Rebecca’s Rules Wings over Delft

BULLYING ORANGE FLAG (READING AGE 4+)

Cinders The Timid Rabbit RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Adam’s Starling Walter Speazlebud BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Benny and Babe The Blue Horse Dancing in the Dark Eva’s Holiday It Wasn’t Me Just Joshua Lockie and Dadge The Moon King Rugby Spirit Secrets and Shadows Star Dancer GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries

CULTURAL DIVERSITY BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Benny and Omar Eva’s Holiday The Gods and their Machines A Horse Called El Dorado Just Joshua GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Cinnamon Tree

DIFFERENCE, PREJUDICE, INTOLERANCE BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

It’s Called Dyslexia ORANGE FLAG (READING AGE 4+)

Emma Says Oops PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

The Little Black Sheep Snobby Cat Strawberry Squirt YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Ed’s Funny Feet The Leprechaun Who Wished He Wasn’t RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Animals Don’t Have Ghosts An tUan Beag Dubh BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Across the Divide Benny and Omar The Blue Horse Cherokee Eva’s Holiday Eva’s Journey Faraway Home Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) A Girl Called Blue The Guns of Easter The Island of Ghosts It Wasn’t Me Just Joshua Katie’s War Lockie and Dadge Missing Sisters The Moon King My Nasty Neighbours Out of the Flames Safe Harbour Secrets and Shadows Sisters Spirit of the Titanic Star Dancer Taking Sides Under Fragile Stone A Winter of Spies

Themes in O’Brien Press Books GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Chieftain’s Daughter The Cinnamon Tree Truth Seeker Wings over Delft

ENVIRONMENTAL CARE BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

Noah’s Ark Póga the Dragon The Story of Creation YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and a Sink Full of Frogs Alfie Green and the Conker King RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Animals Don’t Have Ghosts The Great Pig Escape BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice Next Door Call of the Whales The Celestial Child Eva’s Holiday A Horse Called El Dorado Sky Wings Under Fragile Stone

FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

It’s Great Being Little Mouse TV (parents/siblings) Mr Bear’s Picnic (father/children) Mr Bear to the Rescue (father/ children) Owl Babies (mother/children) The World is Full of Babies (parents) PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

The Big Brother (siblings) Helpful Hannah (grandmother) YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Anna’s Secret Granny (grandmother) Jigsaw Stew Marco Master of Disguise Marco Moonwalker Marco Moves In (mother/son) RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Adam’s Starling (grandfather) Albert & The Magician (parents and siblings) Jimmy’s Leprechaun Trap (grandfather) Juliet’s Story (grandmother) BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice Next Door (parents/children) Amelia (parents) The Battle for the Castle (childminder) The Battle for the Castle (parents) Benny and Babe (grandfather/ parents/children) Benny and Omar (parents/children)

Beyond the Cherry Tree (siblings/ adoptive parents) The Blue Horse (parents/children) Call of the Whales (father/son) The Castle in the Attic (childminder) The Castle in the Attic (parents) Cave of Secrets (father/son) Cherokee (grandfather) Chill Factor (father/son) Dancing in the Dark (parents, sibling) Don’t Ask Alice! (parent/child) Dream Invader (extended family/ cousins) Eva’s Holiday (mother/daughter, father/daughter, grandmothers) Eva’s Journey Faoin Sceach Gheal (siblings/ extended family) Faraway Home (siblings) Fields of Home (siblings) A Girl Called Blue (foster family/ adoption) The Good Liar (siblings) The Harvest Tide Project (uncle/ siblings) A Horse Called El Dorado (parents/ grandparents) In Deep Dark Wood (siblings) The Island of Ghosts (siblings) It Wasn’t Me (twins) Jimeen (parents) Just Joshua (father/son) Katie’s War (father/daughter/ family) Leave it to Eva (grandmother, parents & children) Lockie and Dadge (foster families) Missing Sisters (sisters) The Moon King (foster families) My Nasty Neighbours (parents) No Goodbye (parental separation, father/siblings) Rugby Spirit (granfather) Safe Harbour (grandfather) Sisters (sisters, new families) Spirit of the Titanic Star Dancer (mother/son) Survivors (siblings) Under Fragile Stone (teens/ parents, uncle) Under The Hawthorn Tree (siblings/extended family) Where the Stones Sing Wildflower Girl (siblings) A Winter of Spies (father) GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries (sisters, mother/daughter) Million Dollar Gift (mother/son, father/son) The Real Rebecca (mother/ daughter, siblings) Wings over Delft (family)

FANTASY, OTHER WORLDS YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and the Chocolate Cosmos Mad Grandad’s Doppelganger BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

The Battle for the Castle Beyond the Cherry Tree The Castle in the Attic Celtic Magic Tales Celtic Tales of Enchantment The Demon Notebook Dream Invader Éasca Péasca Faery Nights Oícheanta Sí The Gods and their Machines The Harvest Tide Project In Deep Dark Wood Out of Nowhere Rugby Spirit Spirit of the Titanic Thar an Trasnán Under Fragile Stone Where the Stones Sing The Wish List GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

Edda Epic Million Dollar Gift The Rebel Prince

FRIENDSHIPS BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

Mr Bear to the Rescue Póga the Dragon What Are Friends For? ORANGE FLAG (READING AGE 4+)

Bertie Rooster YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and the Conker King The Leprechaun Who Wished He Wasn’t Marco Master of Disguise Marco Moonwalker Marco Moves In RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

The Big Break Detectives Casebook BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Across the Divide Alice in the Middle Alice Next Door Amelia Benny and Babe Benny and Omar Beyond the Cherry Tree The Blue Horse Call of the Whales Cave of Secrets Dancing in the Dark The Demon Notebook Eva’s Holiday Eva’s Journey

Faraway Home Five Alien Elves Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) Four Stupid Cupids Fugitives!

A Girl Called Blue It Wasn’t Me Johnny Coffin School-Dazed Just Joshua Katie’s War Kicking On Leave it to Eva Lockie and Dadge The Moon King No Peace for Amelia Out of Nowhere See If I Care Secrets and Shadows Shakespeare’s Scribe The Shakespeare Stealer The Silver Stag of Bunratty Six Haunted Hairdos Star Dancer Taking Sides Thar an Trasnán Tiger Boots War Children Where the Stones Sing The Wish List GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Cinnamon Tree Edda Epic The Real Rebecca Rebecca’s Rules Wings over Delft

HISTORY BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

The Story of Ireland BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Across the Divide (1913 Lockout) Amelia (suffragettes) Brian Boru (vikings in Ireland) Cave of Secrets (17th century, pirates) Celtic Magic Tales (celtic Ireland) Celtic Tales of Enchantment (celtic Ireland) Faoin Sceach Gheal (Irish famine) Faraway Home (World War II, kindertransport) Fields of Home (Land War) Fugitives! (Flight of the Earls) Granuaile The Guns of Easter (1916 Rising, World War I) The Hunt for Diarmaid and Gráinne (celtic Ireland) Katie’s War (Irish Civil War) No Peace for Amelia (World War I, 1916 Easter Rising) Red Hugh (English rule in Ireland, 16th century)

Themes in O’Brien Press Books Safe Harbour (World War II, London blitz) Secrets and Shadows (World War II, Ireland’s neutrality) Shakespeare’s Scribe (Elizabethan England, the plague) The Shakespeare Stealer (Elizabethan England) The Silver Stag of Bunratty Spirit of the Titanic (Titanic/1910s/ Belfast, shipbuilding and society) Strongbow (Normans in Ireland) Survivors (Titanic disaster) The Táin (celtic Ireland) Taking Sides (civil war/Dublin 1920s) Under The Hawthorn Tree (Irish famine) War Children (Irish War of Independence, 1919-1921) Where the Stones Sing (medieval Dublin) Wildflower Girl (post-famine emigration) A Winter of Spies (Irish Civil War, 1922) GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Chieftain’s Daughter (celtic Ireland) Exploring the Spanish Armada Truth Seeker (viking Dublin and East Anglia) Wings over Delft (the Enlightenment in Holland) The Rainbow Bridge (revolutionary France) In The Claws of the Eagle (Second World War)

HUMOUR BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

And the Blood Flowed Green Death by Chocolate Destination Homicide Mouse TV Six Million Ways to Die WHITE FLAG (ALL AGES)

Beastly Jokes More Beastly Jokes YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and a Sink Full of Frogs The Leprechaun Who Wished He Wasn’t The Lough Neagh Monster Marco Master of Disguise Marco Moonwalker Marco Moves In RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Animals Don’t Have Ghosts Boom Chicka Boom Charlie Harte and his TwoWheeled Tiger The Great Pig Escape Jimmy’s Leprechaun Trap

Leprechaun on the Loose The Big Break Detectives Casebook Walter Speazlebud Wolfgran Wolfgran Returns BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice Next Door Benny and Babe Benny and Omar Eva’s Holiday Five Alien Elves Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) Four Stupid Cupids It Wasn’t Me Jimeen Johnny Coffin School-Dazed The Leprechaun’s Challenge The Leprechaun’s Riddle My Nasty Neighbours Sisters Six Haunted Hairdos Thar an Trasnán The Wish List GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Real Rebecca Rebecca’s Rules

INFORMATION BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

All About Gaelic Football All About Hurling Fantastic Far-Flung Facts for Fun It’s Called Dyslexia My Ireland Counting Book The Story of Ireland BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice & Megan’s Cookbook Granuaile GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

Exploring the Spanish Armada

ISSUES YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Alfie Green and a Sink Full of Frogs (positive elderly role model) Blue, Where Are You? (moving house) Marco Master of Disguise (loyalty) Marco Moonwalker (absent parents/loyalty) Marco Moves In (absent parents/ loyalty) RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Adam’s Starling (financial pressures) Charlie Harte and his TwoWheeled Tiger (unemployment) BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice in the Middle (friendships) Alice Next Door (parental separation)

Amelia (financial pressures, women’s rights) Beyond the Cherry Tree (adoption) The Blue Horse (ethnic minority) Cave of Secrets (financial pressures) Cherokee (parenting) Chill Factor (genetic engineering) Chill Factor (life-threatening illness) Dancing in the Dark (death of a sibling) Don’t Ask Alice! (parental separation) Eva’s Journey (unemployment, financial pressures) Faraway Home (refugees) Faraway Home (war) A Girl Called Blue (being orphaned) The Gods and their Machines (terrorism) The Gods and their Machines (domination) The Gods and their Machines (politics) The Harvest Tide Project (control of resources) The Harvest Tide Project (domination) A Horse Called El Dorado (guerrilla activity, domination) It Wasn’t Me (bullying) Just Joshua (being an outsider) Katie’s War (mental illness) Leave it to Eva (absent parent, family illness, blended families) Lockie and Dadge (being outsiders) Lockie and Dadge (foster care) Missing Sisters (being orphaned) The Moon King (being different) The Moon King (foster care) My Nasty Neighbours (teen/parent relationships) No Goodbye (parental separation) No Peace for Amelia (pacifism) Safe Harbour (serious illness of a parent, war) Secrets and Shadows (war & conflict, loyalty) The Silver Notebook (absent parent) Sisters (death of parent) Sisters (new families) Spirit of the Titanic (coming of age/bereavement and death/ discrimination) Spirit of the Titanic (honour and duty/courage/loyalty/hope) Star Dancer (social disadvantage) Taking Sides (loyalty/war and conflict) Under Fragile Stone (domination, resources) Where the Stones Sing (death of a friend)

GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Bad Karma Diaries (blogging/ social networking/ online safety) The Cinnamon Tree (disability) The Cinnamon Tree (landmines) The Cinnamon Tree (the developing world) Edda (power, use of virtual reality, loyalty) Edda (coming of age, control of resources) Epic (elitism) Epic (domination) Epic (control of wealth/resources) Million Dollar Gift (death of a parent/friends, identity, teen/parent relationship) The Real Rebecca (identity) Rebecca’s Rules (friendship, identity, teen relationships) Wings over Delft (science, art and religion) Wings over Delft (class issues)

MYTH AND LEGEND BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

Irish Legends The O’Brien Book of Irish Fairy Tales and Legends YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

The Big Fight Here, There and Everywhere RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Jimmy’s Leprechaun Trap BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Celtic Magic Tales Celtic Tales of Enchantment Faery Nights Oícheanta Sí The Hunt for Diarmaid and Gráinne October Moon The Silver Stag of Bunratty The Táin Wolf Moon

OTHER PEOPLE AND LANDS BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

And the Blood Flowed Green Death by Chocolate Destination Homicide Six Million Ways to Die BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Benny and Omar Call of the Whales Eva’s Holiday A Horse Called El Dorado Just Joshua GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

Al Capsella and the Watchdogs The Cinnamon Tree Friend of my Heart The Heroic Life of Al Capsella Million Dollar Gift

Themes in O’Brien Press Books PERSONAL CHALLENGE

GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries Edda It’s Called Dyslexia Epic Póga the Dragon Million Dollar Gift ORANGE FLAG (READING AGE 4+) The Real Rebecca Bertie Rooster Rebecca’s Rules Boo and Bear Wings over Delft Emma Says Boo Emma Says Oops POLITICS The Timid Rabbit BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+) BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

Barry’s New Bed Emma the Penguin YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Ed’s Bed Ed’s Funny Feet Going Potty RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Adam’s Starling BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice Next Door Amelia The Battle for the Castle Beyond the Cherry Tree The Blue Horse Blue Lavender Girl The Castle in the Attic Cave of Secrets Cherokee Copper Girl Dancing in the Dark Eva’s Holiday Eva’s Journey (moving to a new area/new school) Faoin Sceach Gheal Faraway Home Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) A Girl Called Blue The Good Liar The Guns of Easter Hazel Wood Girl A Horse Called El Dorado In Deep Dark Wood Just Joshua Katie’s War Kicking On Leave it to Eva Lockie and Dadge Missing Sisters The Moon King My Nasty Neighbours No Goodbye No Peace for Amelia Red Hugh Rugby Spirit Safe Harbour The Silver Stag of Bunratty Sisters Spirit of the Titanic Star Dancer Survivors Under The Hawthorn Tree War Children Where the Stones Sing

Across the Divide (1913 Lockout) Fugitives!

The Gods and their Machines The Harvest Tide Project A Horse Called El Dorado Out of Nowhere Secrets and Shadows Taking Sides Under Fragile Stone GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Chieftain’s Daughter Edda Epic Wings over Delft

SCHOOL LIFE BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

It’s Called Dyslexia PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

Emma the Penguin RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Adam’s Starling Albert & The Magician The Big Break Detectives Casebook Walter Speazlebud BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Alice Next Door The Blue Horse The Castle in the Attic Cherokee Dancing in the Dark The Demon Notebook Five Alien Elves Four Stupid Cupids The Island of Ghosts It Wasn’t Me Johnny Coffin School-Dazed Lockie and Dadge Rugby Spirit Secrets and Shadows Six Haunted Hairdos Taking Sides Thar an Trasnán GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Bad Karma Diaries The Real Rebecca Rebecca’s Rules

SPORT BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

All About Gaelic Football All About Hurling

BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

The Battle for the Castle Benny and Babe Benny and Omar The Castle in the Attic Kicking On Rugby Spirit Star Dancer Thar an Trasnán Tiger Boots

STORIES AND STORYTELLING YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Here, There and Everywhere RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Boom Chicka Boom Juliet’s Story BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Faery Nights Oícheanta Sí Four Kids, Three Cats, Two Cows, One Witch (maybe) Shakespeare’s Scribe The Shakespeare Stealer

TRADITIONAL TALES/ NURSERY RHYMES BLACK FLAG (PICTURE BOOKS)

The Adventures of Shamrock Sean Noah’s Ark Nursery Rhymes The O’Brien Book of Irish Fairy Tales and Legends Sally Go Round the Stars The Story of Creation YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Here, There and Everywhere RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Boom Chicka Boom Wolfgran Wolfgran Returns BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Faery Nights Oícheanta Sí Sisters The Táin

VISUAL AND PERFORMANCE ARTS PURPLE FLAG (READING AGE 5+)

Conor’s Canvas Conor’s Concert YELLOW FLAG (READING AGE 6+)

Marco Moonwalker (Music) RED FLAG (READING AGE 8+)

Tommy the Theatre Cat BLUE FLAG (READING AGE 10+)

Cherokee Dancing in the Dark Hazel Wood Girl GREEN FLAG (READING AGE 12+)

The Real Rebecca (Music) Rebecca’s Rules (Music/Theatre) Wings over Delft

A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+ Celtic Pre-History 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) Strongbow (Normans in Ireland) 14th Century The Silver Stag of Bunratty Where the Stones Sing (medieval Dublin) 16th Century Granuaile Red Hugh (English rule in Ireland, 16th century) 17th Century Cave of Secrets (17th century, pirates) Fugitives! (Flight of the Earls) 19th Century Faoin Sceach Gheal (Irish famine) Fields of Home (Land War) Under The Hawthorn Tree (Irish famine) Wildflower Girl (post-famine emigration) 20th Century Spirit of the Titanic (1910s) Survivors (Titanic disaster) Across the Divide (1913 Lockout) Amelia (suffragettes) 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)

REAL BOOKS FOR SCHOOLS Using O’Brien flags to select books for your classroom

As children start school at different ages under the various educational systems listed here, and also begin formal reading at different stages, this suggested guide to suitability for various ages differs for each system.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

NORTHERN IRELAND & SCOTLAND

ENGLAND & WALES

BLACK FLAG

Picture books

Usable throughout the school (but especially Junior Infants)

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

Usable throughout the school (but especially Reception)

ORANGE FLAG

Senior Infants (also First Class)

Year 1 [P1]. Key Stage 1

Reception

First Class (also Senior Infants, Reading level 5+ Second Class)

Year 2 [P2]. Key Stage 1

Year 1.

YELLOW FLAG

Second Class (also First Class,

Year 3 [P3]. Key Stage 1

Year 2.

RED FLAG

Third Class, Fourth Class

Year 4, Year 5 [P4, P5].

Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2

Year 3, Year 4.

Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2

BLUE FLAG

Fifth Class, Sixth Class

Year 6, Year 7 [P6, P7].

Year 5, Year 6.

Reading level 4+ PURPLE FLAG

Reading level 6+ Third Class) Reading level 8+ Reading level 10+

First Year, Second Year Reading level 12+ (second-level schools)

GREEN FLAG

Key Stage 2

Key Stage 1 Key Stage 1

Key Stage 2

Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 (secondary Year 7, Year 8, Year 9 (secondary schools). Key Stage 3 schools). Key Stage 3

YOUNG ADULT Older and more confident readers Older and more confident readers Older and more confident readers BOOKS

This is a general guide to reading levels.

It will help you to choose books to suit your pupils and their abilities.

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, 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 our website www.obrien.ie. They are also available from online retailers such as www.irishbooksdirect.com, www.thebookdepository.co.uk and www.amazon.co.uk as well as education sites such as www.schoolbooks.ie and www.schooldays.ie.

3.

BUYING DIRECTLY: Alternatively, 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)