Obrien for schools 2015

for Schools 20 1 5 – 2 0 1 6

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

www.ob

rien.ie/scho

ols

O’Brien for Schools

A

t O’Brien Press, we understand the need for you, as teachers, to choose engaging, entertaining and challenging texts for your students for the coming year.

CONTENTS FREE Resources available

3

Black Flag – Picture Books & Nursery Rhymes 4

This catalogue aims to help you in this selection and to show you the range of ideas and resources available to make your life that little bit easier when covering a class novel. These versatile, adaptable resources will help you to plan for and develop high-level thinking and communication skills in your classroom. And the best bit is, they’re ALL FREE!

Orange Flag – Reading Level 4+

5

Purple Flag – Reading Level 5+

5

Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+

6–7

Leabhair Gaeilge

8–9

Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+

10–13

Irish Historical Fiction

14–18

Themes 19–21 www.obrien.ie/schools 22–23 Where Can I Find O’Brien Press Books?

24

O’Brien Press books are colour-coded with reading age flags.

This guide indicates which flag is most appropriate for different ages for each educational system.

Reading age flag

Republic of Ireland

Northern Ireland

Black flag Picture books

Usable throughout the school (but especially Junior Infants)

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

Orange flag Reading level 4+

Senior Infants (also First Class)

Year 1 [P1].

Key Stage 1

Purple flag Reading level 5+

First Class (also Senior Infants, Second Class)

Year 2 [P2].

Key Stage 1

Yellow flag Reading level 6+

Second Class (also First Class, Third Class)

Year 3 [P3].

Key Stage 1

Red flag Reading level 8+

Third Class, Fourth Class

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

Blue flag Reading level 10+

Fifth Class, Sixth Class

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

Green Flag Reading level 12+

First Year, Second Year (secondlevel schools)

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

YOUNG ADULT BOOKS

Older and more confident readers

Older and more confident readers

POSTERS, BOOKMARKS & DISPLAY MATERIAL

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

Discovering History, Uncovering Mystery ...

IRISH HISTORY COMES TO LIFE

IT’S TIME TO CHOOSE: FRIENDS, FAMILY OR LOYALTY TO THE CAUSE ...

Coming soon!

Only Eva Visit e www.obrien.i on s for more new Judi Curtin

More great adventures from Brian Gallagher

Eoin Madden’s having a busy term with friend issues, schoolwork and new rugby challenges.

And, as usual, there are ghostly goings-on in Castlerock school too!

YOUTUBE LOGO SPECS

The O’Brien Press Ltd, 12 Terenure Rd East, Rathgar, PRINT Dublin 6, Ireland. T: +353 1 4923333; F: +353 1 4922777; E: books@obrien.ie; W: www.obrien.ie

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

on light backgrounds

CMYK / .eps

TheOBrienPress

@OBrienPress

standard

OBrienPress

main red

PMS 1795C

C13 M96 Y81 K54

black

C0 M0 Y0 K0

C100 M100 Y100 K100

WHITE

on dark backgrounds standard

gradient bottom

PMS 1815C

C0 M96 Y90 K2

white

BLACK

no gradients

no gradients

watermark

watermark

stacked logo (for sharing only)

stacked logo (for sharing only)

From the bestselling author of spirit of the titanic

‘A brave and superb book, I recommend this highly’ Fallen Star Stories

‘more than a mere history book … hooked me in from the first page’ InTouch Magazine

‘fantastically written ... historical fiction at its best’ The Guardian

‘Captivating’ Sunday Business Post ‘Intriguing’ Belfast Telegraph

TheOBrienPress

YOUTUBE LOGO SPECS

The O’Brien Press Ltd, 12 Terenure Rd East, Rathgar, PRINT Dublin 6, Ireland. T: +353 1 4923333; F: +353 1 4922777; E: books@obrien.ie; W: www.obrien.ie

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

on light backgrounds

CMYK / .eps

TheOBrienPress

@OBrienPress

standard

OBrienPress

main red

PMS 1795C

C13 M96 Y81 K54

white

black

C0 M0 Y0 K0

C100 M100 Y100 K100

WHITE

2

on dark backgrounds standard

gradient bottom

PMS 1815C

C0 M96 Y90 K2

BLACK

no gradients

no gradients

watermark

watermark

stacked logo (for sharing only)

stacked logo (for sharing only)

TheOBrienPress

Front cover illustration by Lauren O’Neill from Gulliver.

See page 4.

TEACHING RESOURCES

AVAILABLE FREE FROM WWW.OBRIEN.IE TEACHING GUIDES Are you choosing a new novel for your class?

Or perhaps you are using O’Brien Press novels already. O’Brien Teaching Guides provide detailed suggestions for getting the most out of your chosen novel, with plot summaries, activities, discussion points and more. Teaching Guides are available for many O’Brien Press books and more are being added all the time.

ACTIVITY SHEETS

ALFIE GREEN: A STRANGE NEW PLANT

Féile Fever

A PICTURE OF ALFIE’S NEW PLANT

Explain any strange characteristics the new plant has as well as describing what it looks like. Will your plant be friendly or dangerous? Try to give as much detail as you can Use the box to the side to draw a picture of what you think the plant will look like and write your description in the box below. Don’t forget to give the new plant a name.

A DESCRIPTION OF ALFIE’S NEW PLANT ...

By PETER HEANEY Mick Wilde has been nominated as one of the contenders for the Sportswriter’s Award of Manager of the Month.

www. obr ie n.i e

Danny ’s Hidden Words

m

n

y

u

m

c

j

Monster Bury Picnic Loo Fetch

w

p

t

h

o

n

s

t

e

r

t

w

t

e

e

t

h

y

b

u

r

y

z

b

r

i

s

t

l

e

s

p

t

o

o

t

h

b

r

u

s

h

l

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

ISBN 978-1-84717-173-3 pb

The Sportswriter’s Manager of the Month: May

Bristles Teeth Toothbrush Park Pond

x

u

m

m

RATIONALE & THEMES The Ballybreen Terriers under-12 hurling team has collapsed spectacularly.

They have lost seventeen games in a row, their bainisteoir has resigned and most of the team have quit.

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

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

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

SUMMARY

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

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

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

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

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

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

Raymond ‘Rusty’ Arantes, originally from Brazil, has been a member of the Ballybreen Terriers U12 hurling club for a year and a half. He loves his sport and his club, but now it seems that the Terriers APPROACH are facing collapse after a succession of This is an enjoyable and entertaining defeats, resignations and desertions. read that tackles the sensitive topics of bullying, Rusty and Katie ‘Dinger’ Bell, a majorette sportsmanship and gamesmanship in an and the club’s most loyal supporter, are accessible way. It is easy for the reader to determined to keep the Terriers going. identify with both the characters and the Reminiscing over an old club photo, Katie issues. points out Fintan Lonergan, an outstanding The book uses comic strips and illustrations player who mysteriously retired (at age as well as the standard textual narrative.

a

u

r

h

p

f

o

y

g

p

c

g

b

q

a

e

o

h

p

i

c

n

i

c

r

t

p

o

n

d

w

x

s

k

k

c

c

b

u

z

n

j

j

c

w

h

In order to make sure that they are being fair, the sportswriters try to score the contender’s skills against a set of agreed common skills that they think are important for a manager to have.

There are five common skills that they will score each manager on and then each sportswriter is allowed to include one extra skill that they think is important too.

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

SPORTSWRITER’S MANAGER OF THE MONTH: MAY Nomination form Name: MICK WILDE Team:

LITTLESTOWN CROKES G.A.C.

SKILLS TEAM PERFORMANCE

KNOWLEDGE OF THE GAME

TEAM MOTIVATOR

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

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

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

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

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

You can use the nomination form on the following page:

ORGANISING SKILLS

TACTICAL SKILLS (How did he use his players)

SCORE OUT OF 10

THE STORY OF IRELAND Statues with a Story: Activity 1

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

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

The themes relate easily to PSHE/PDMU requirements.

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

Section 1 The Dust of Defeat pp5–57 SUMMARY

Brazilian Raymond ‘Rusty’ Arantes bemoans the impending collapse of the Ballybreen Terriers U12 hurling club after their seventeenth consecutive defeat.

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

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

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

Check out this fantastic integrated Reading Programme based on over eighty books and make O’Brien Press books work for you. Find out more at www.obrien.ie/reading-programme Fintan’s Fifteen

1

JOE O’BRIEN

Help Danny to find these words in the box below

By Peter Heaney

By Peter Hean

is being g his father, who help in rescuin eers. Emer’s by the Volunt Irish Volunteers. held captive the fighting member of the been injured in a telegram own father has THEMES it hurts. is devastated by RATIONALE & knows how much Jack’s mother nephew, a soldier too, and she e, and ing her that her Jack. rages on in Europ been injured on decides to help of inform has She The Great War safety Army, the of the s fear for ate with the British as a member many Irish familie When Jack’s classm trenches of disguises Jack South Western Front. fighting in the ent about Emer him to the hile, the their loved ones and escorts spiteful comm e to manag Dardanelles. Meanw to Phelim makes a with Fianna the they es and m explod , where Belgiu injury, Jack Dublin Union alist fervour swells his cousin’s much bigger back home, nation tion of the lip of the rescue his father. with the revolu and rage, splitting are not as a bloody climax eers surrender repercussions Volunt the the .

But ally his – Dublin boy.

Eventu ver, the fate of Easter 1916 in had anticipated s to normal. Howe for Jack as he and her city return severe ably ed. life the s irrevoc divide that he was provok been changed The conflict against father accepts the nation has friends and family week, 1916. to talk about people, setting s warn her not the events of Easter Emer’s parent of Jack, in by front in each other. alism to be too, the family ’s nation bonds refuse ACH to his dad. Jack, back APPRO s the However, some report battle, he case closely characters maelstrom of t with Emer is lively, and the sundered; in the finds that his contac This story is very or Foe stay friends hip endure. they agree to relate to. Friend links of friends scrutinised. But are easy to history nces. events in Irish s explored are: ers important of despite their differe Some of the theme terevin consid our national sense and aunt in Monas their that are pertinent to Courage ary of Emer’s uncle in as the centen to stay overnight y and relevant friends Friendship identit the voices invite to sleep, hears Loyalty 1916 approaches. . Jack, unable to house nment used y about a consig sion can be Responsibilit downstairs talking Small-group discus and identify myths Emer’s uncle that ng y ng knowi Identit of ‘supplies’; widen understandi in the they mean he guesses that views identified Integrity and is a nationalist, by rehearsing activities relate follow the men Points. The He decides to a sion guns. into te Discus ives facilita a SUMMARY unloading explos PDMU and will opens sees them easily to PSHE/ argument ch to the novel.

1916: our story He recalls Emer’s turned street, warehouse.

Easter Monday, collaborative approa into four government has g down a Dublin divided the book and that the British with Emer runnin of the loyalist This guide has soldiers’ bullets the development eye to the arming e blind only the modat a it’s dodging English re therefo parts to accom standing to make it around Volunteer Force, students’ under guns as desperately trying fate, we are Ulster of the story and side has some Unsure of her . er. fair that the other corner to safety. s to keep the secret. of historical events the previous summ to decide he back well – and then taken the armed Jack, Ben, Monday, the day gang – Emer, the who Back to Easter The Ellesmere Unit 1 he leaves to meet five young friends tion begins. As that revolu Gladys and Joan, Dublin insists rous eers, Emer’s dad osm of prospe Prelude to are a microc the 20th other Volunt a train to Ennis early years of her mum take society in the Pages 7–61 the danger in River Tolka. she and swimming in the relatives and avoid Century – are er, rescues stay with is determined a strong swimm l. However Emer When Emer, to slip away akable link the capita SUMMARY and manages ing, an unbre rebels in the to be involved Jack from drown Dublin. in runner for the remain r and en them.

Emer Davey, a through a from her mothe is forged betwe flees capture and is tasked sharpening in Irish Volunteers, tensions are to help the rebels But political bullets. a group Emer offers to the GPO. hail of British the friends meet ring a message very ly Ireland. When g in the with delive , things were s, she narrow months earlier are secretly trainin British soldier by who Nine t friends in that the rebels Caugh her of hts and life. Back home Dublin, it highlig nt. When Emer is escapes with her for her differe mountains above father pleads whose He en Jack, meets Jack. differences betwe father is a night, she Teaching Guide and Emer, whose a policeman,

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

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

Teaching Guide

Guide Teaching ey

Friend or Foe

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

Alan Nolan

Brian Gallagher

REAL BOOKS FOR SCHOOLS

HUNDREDS of FREE activity sheets, created by

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

Fintan’s Fifteen

7-631-8 ISBN 978-1-8471 -84717-755-1 eBook ISBN 978-1

Friend or Foe

1

Teaching Guide

DISCOVERY CHALLENGE Specialised activity sheets for reluctant readers, developed by resource teachers.

Available FREE at www.obrien.ie/discovery-challenge

EVIDENCE

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

Detective Diarmuid has some advice to help you get started ...

“Look for clues in the names of the streets or buildings in your local area. Are any of them named after someone? Is there a local park named after someone? These are usually good places to start ” You might prefer to choose someone who is not very well known. They may even be still living. If this is so then it would be a great opportunity to write to them and ask them some good questions.

When you have chosen the person you want to research, you will need to think about why you have chosen them and what effect you think that their contribution has made. Write a short description of the person you have chosen and the reasons you selected them in the boxes below.

WHO I HAVE CHOSEN

ABILITY TO THINK UNDER PRESSURE

WRITER’S CHOICE OF SKILL

WHY I HAVE CHOSEN THIS PERSON

COVER GALLERY

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

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

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

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

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

FREE at www.obrien.ie/school-library

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

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

3

Black Flag – Picture Books & Nursery Rhymes N EW

Gulliver has always wanted to go on adventures. But when he does, he gets lost at sea. Waking up on a beach, Gulliver finds he is a prisoner in a land of tiny people. And then the sea takes him to a land of terrifying giants, who have their own special plans for him … Gulliver has to escape and find his way back home. A favourite classic retold for young readers and re-imagined with thrilling illustrations.

Hours passed. The sun beat down on me and all I could think of was water.

Then I felt a tickle on my leg. A spider, perhaps? Or a scorpion? I wanted to scratch it, but couldn’t reach. The tickle travelled up my body and onto my chest.

I wriggled and peered down – and I got the biggest shock of my whole life.

Standing on my chest, with his arms crossed, was a teeny, tiny little man! A human being, perfect in every way, except that he was no bigger than my finger.

Behind him stood about fifty other little men, just the same size – and they all carried wicked little bows and arrows.

Was I dead? Was I dreaming? I blinked hard. The little men were real.

‘Who are you?’ I shouted. ‘What are you?’

The creatures ran off in all directions, yelping and covering their ears. I pulled free one arm and my hair from the ropes. I raised my head – and soon wished I hadn’t.

Hundreds of the little men were marching up the beach towards me, like an army. The front row drew back their bows and fired a shower of arrows, straight at my face and arm. The arrows stung like the devil, and I lay down again, fast.

There was no escape. I was at the mercy of the strange little men.

8

N EW

Once upon a time there was a little girl called Fiona who lived in Dublin. But Dublin is full of colourful characters and creatures from the fairytale realm. Often not seen or heard, they reside in some of Dublin’s most famous locations and landmarks!

9

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

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

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

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

N EW

From the author of Brian and the Vikings (Children’s book of the Year (Junior) 2014), comes Brian’s next great adventure…

Brian’s village is in trouble. The water from their river has run dry, and the neighbouring village has been smashed to pieces! Brian and his brothers will need to follow the stinky smell in order to save the day!

A major illustrated collection of nursery rhymes known and loved throughout Ireland. It includes international and British rhymes as well as special Irish favourites.

Three of Oscar Wilde’s best loved fairy tales – ‘The Happy Prince’, ‘The Nightingale and the Rose’ and ‘The Selfish Giant’ – enhanced by the flowing lines of Charles Robinson’s illustrations from the original 1888 edition, now in full colour.

4

‘Follow that stink!’ bellowed Brian.

The brave band of brothers set out to discover what had destroyed their village

... and caused such a stink!

A beautifully illustrated book is the perfect introduction to the world of reading, both in the classroom and at home.

Orange Flag – Reading Level 4+ At The O’Brien Press, we realise the need for bright, colourful, engaging and energetic books for younger readers, to help build up confidence during the early stages of learning to read.

Color profile: Disabled Composite Default screen

Panda cubs is an exciting series of full-colour illustrated books for younger children – ideal for reading with a child or helping them to begin reading on their own.

‘The O’Brien panda cubs series has all it takes to encourage reading.’ Irish Examiner

Color profile: Disabled Composite Default screen

Hal jumped up to see.

‘That’s a huge bag!

What’s inside?’

For lots of great books at this reading level, visit www. obrien.ie/orange-flag 10

11

10 E:...Hal’s Sleepover.vp Tue Jul 15 14:33:01 2008

11 E:...Hal’s Sleepover.vp Tue Jul 15 14:33:05 2008

Purple Flag – Reading Level 5+ ‘These easy stories with their simple texts and lively illustrations should encourage even the most recalcitrant reader.’

Sunday Independent

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

For lots of great books at this reading level, visit www.obrien.ie/purple-flag TEACHING RESOURCES Activity Sheets Teaching support is essential, especially at younger reading levels. That’s why we have hundreds of FREE Activity Sheets available, including nearly forty to support the panda series: when you choose an O’Brien panda you get a whole teaching support package. Our Activity Sheets are created by teachers for teachers, with the primary school curriculum in mind. They are ideal for classroom use, with puzzle pages, language development and visual arts activities and more. www.obrien.ie/activity-sheets

Reading Programme Our Reading Programme includes inter-disciplinary teaching ideas for twenty panda books. Available FREE at

www.obrien.ie/reading-programme

5

Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+

O’Brien Press Yellow Flag books are perfect for children who can read stories with chapters and slightly longer sentences. They capture the imagination of young readers with humour and illustrations that go beyond simply showing what is in the text, for a more complete reading experience.

Celebrate Ten Years of Featuring the hilarious Mad Grandad books from awardwinning 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!

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!

I kept looking at him. There was something strange about him, but I couldn’t work out what. Then I got it.

‘Grandad!’ I said. ‘Your glasses are different. They’re round instead of square!’

‘Gorgeous books beautifully illustrated, perfect for 6–7 year-olds.’

Sunday Independent

16

Introducing

Irish Book Award Nominee

These beautifully illustrated, heartwarming stories are perfect for sharing in class or for independent readers.

M GLEN

EY L L A V ORE

LLEY A V E OR M N E GL

A wonderful new series of fun and informative stories all about farming and country life! Ideal for younger readers and for reading aloud.

6

Yellow Flag – Reading Level 6+

What happens to the Christmas tree fairy who falls off her perch?

Flora the fairy reckons she is the most important part of Christmas and the most beautiful fairy ever! But Flora has heard worrying stories that some families put a star on the top of the tree. Can you imagine in it? A mere star! Flora makes sure to kick the star back down a few branches every time she sees it advancing up the tree.

But when Flora falls off the tree, the vain and selfish fairy has much to learn before she can regain her rightful place on the Christmas tree.

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 seventh annual ‘Design-a-Cover Competition’ was a huge success with thousands of entries. Winner Shelagh-Jessica Gilbourne from Millstreet, Co. Cork created this imaginative cover for the brand new edition of Marian Broderick’s hilarious book The Lost Fairy. A big congratulations and well done to all those who took part!

Want to see your design on the cover of a book? Then enter our 2015 competition this autumn! The lucky winner will not only see their design gracing the shelves of their local library or bookshop, but will have their entire class invited to a glitzy awards ceremony and win sets of O’Brien Press titles for their school! Full competition details at www. childrensbooksireland.com

TEACHING RESOURCES There are lots of great teaching support materials for yellow flag books. Check out these Activity Sheets and lots more at www.obrien.ie/schools – free to view and download!

ALFIE GREEN Gang and the Bee-Bottle

7-054-5 pb ISBN 978-1-8471

ALFIE GREEN uzzler and the Monkey-P

-4 hb

7-022 ISBN 978-1-8471

JOE O’BRIEN

Teaching Guide

JOE O’BRIEN

Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney

Fitzer ambush Alfie and Next morning they l the way to schoo in the park on SUM MAR Y them for freeing the N D THEM ES after schoo l for determined to punish RATIO NALE A has been kept home l world of Alfie heads he magica As the t bees. ing during maths.

These books presen that the bottle of the create a dream ers the they of discov top her he the Toget ws through the park, Alfie Green . s Alfie unscre there is an rous world of . A Hebe bush explain Bee’s perfume and bees are in uproar wond erfull y humo trapping Queen a dark cloud of ters and anima ted children have been us angry buzz as exagg erated charac the that some now all omino nowhere. h the magic is to kill them and that bees appears from flora. Woven throug park warrior child bees in bottles ning to leave the a stinging mischief that every of threate launch are thread bees ial bees of essent and the The squadron take Alfie is irrepressible, and his gang who will identify with. of for good. attack on Whacker ers they tackle a series ing and yelling.

Fitzer, Alfie discov with his friend Fitzer, to their heels whoop Later in the park with comic invention. his gang are the Fitzer and and Walsh zany adventures with Alfie er gone, r that Whack With the dange are aimed at the s a successful bee bush smiles mount books Hebe the Alfie the s. gh and Althou sal culprit head for school and now he safe themes are univer Whacker sees him the bees are now younger reader, the ce rescue, but quietly knowing that of an angry and vibrant resour face the prospect and will create a rich ties, and Fitzer from the Bottle gang. ssions and activi g for revenge. for class discu to Whacker lookin and ng them selves TS Old Plant for help partic ularly lendi Wise POIN N the arts asks Alfie DISC USSIO all h drama, visual visit the Queen of Gang development throug he suggests that Alfie 14. The Bee Bottle b main themes are: Read pp.12– lives in Hone ycom and literacy. The bees in bottles and the bees. She r are trapping the bereavement a, and fierce warrio Dealing with This is very cruel.

Mountain, in Arcani letting them die. ?

Wise Old Plant gives Bullying being cruel means think bees guard her. The you to do him What to introduce humans have the Supporting others Alfie a note in a bottle with Do you think that strategies her for her help species any way we Developing coping her and to ask right to treat other gang. eing any examples of Whacker and his Emotional well-b Can you think of like? b to animals? How reach Hone ycom Trust / Self esteem humans being cruel Befor e he can h ls? should treat anima must travel throug Keeping rules do you think we Moun tain, Alfie for an animals we use With the help of What about the Feelings Firethorn Valley. broom, a flight over food? accommodating flying . option now is best ker the to be –25. Whac the valley seems APPR OAC H matter Read pp.23 freeing little a for and Alfie hly of Things don’t go smoot determined to punish written as a series them These books are broom almost has Alfie can ask the Wise e the bees. Luckily of dirty fuel for the Each is a discret the adventures for Alfie.

Have you ever been valley floor among to Old Plant for help. barbequed on the ss of the character the you story. For the richne bushes. However on? What would ach in a similar situati deadly Firethorn er, a series appro to jets just in time. his you know where develo p, howev clear Do to and es were? ties do if you bush manag ered. Activi if , her should be consid know what to do you queen each Do for the help? ted get are sugges When Alfie meets ning to someone discussion points guards are happe r at ted this warrio saw sugges fierce are you es me size and book and overall activiti r aweso er she smiles numbe a howev , read else? have dating who very intimi d. He is the end for those and gives him – 53. Alfie is terrifie note pp.49 Alfie’s Read

reads when she e to of books in the series. firethorn valley with r warning perfum hurtling down into at some of her warrio characterisation within g thorns flying up er.

The pace, plot and showers of blazin gh for them to lp him deal with Whack tens

By Peter Heaney

s coming from upstair tiny monkey feet as Fitzer hides, Alfie disturbs them and SUMM ARY shed and the Wise of the heads for the potting announced the arrival of The music no However this was t the magical world Old Plant. lle. presen Budsvi to books These a circus to call the her they create was a monkey circus, Old Plant tells him ordinary circus. This Alfie Green . Toget ys The Wise from rous world of mers were monke to delay the circus police and then where all the perfor wond erfull y humo arrive . He must reason it was free. ters and anima ted leavin g until they and for some strange exagg erated charac the Monkey h the magic is the ge Edison to climb for the performance challen arrive flora. Woven throug Fitzer about child and happy Alfie is not too behind mischief that every Puzzle tree. Alfie themselves seated essential thread of that find and him and res ssible, early the tree reassu Alfie is irrepre the show begins this plan, but the will identify with. will of Whacker. When g, leaves on the tree they tackle a series amazing; jugglin the sharp pointed with his friend Fitzer, climb monkeys are simply on comic invention. for the monkey to walking and flying make it impossible zany adventures with plan defeats clowning, tightrope simple the Alfie the at h, free, are aimed the circus is up. Sure enoug the trapeze. Since Although the books t sal pocke univer their are themes Edison. able to spend younger reader, the y ce and Fitzer are rn and fizzy arrive and the Monke and vibrant resour a feast of popco With this the police and will create a rich all ties, money on rs softly to Alfie that sions and activi Puzzler tree whispe for class discus tree to drinks. s are hiding in the ng thems elves is annou nced, the monkey thieve partic ularly lendi the ‘Big Prize’ the hair from visual arts When , on the softly drama g of h out Blowin name is drawn beside him. development throug Principal Boggins’ Alfie conjur es a main themes are: Ediso n, the most the Wise Old Plant. and literacy. The air hat to challe nge a that swirls in the to ask bereavement sparkling blue banan the world. He has Dealing with intelligent ape in of a temptation for he can’t answer. and proves too much Bullying the tree along him a question that s, who fall out of very thieve others is the on rting questi Suppo The principal’s maths bags of stolen goods. strategies and their it r with coping answe ping to is able Develo Jack difficult but Edison is arreste d and eing al Boggins is to ride The ring maste r Emotional well-b the forfeit for Princip kins dazzling circus ga a tiny tricycle, wearin Dumbkins from Dumb Trust / Self esteem around the ring on to his circus as a rs. In the uproar of offers Alfie two tickets Following rules pair of frilly pink knicke follows Alfie . that ng reward chanti Feelings cheering and er drink all over Whack knocks Fitzer’s fizzy TS to flee the Big Top DISC USSIO N POIN and they both have to APPR OACH Everyone was asked angry Whacker. of Read pp.15–16. chased by a very written as a series the and address to These books are Alfie’s empty to discrete a safely is give their name it Each personal They just make adventures for Alfie. ter to shut as Whacker Do you know what . door charac circus the the of bang ss think it is house and ally story. For the richne ation is? Do you appro ach to the gate. Eventu inform up series ing a er, pound ation type of inform develo p, howev and comes to wash himself and sensible to give this ered. Activi ties Whacker heads home If someone that should be consid each relief, Alfie spots to anyone who asks? are suggested for as they sigh with for your name or discussion points e. There are you don’t know asks es are suggested at thing very strang you do? book and overall activiti r some all the empty address, what should climbing out of who have read a numbe ys had those monke for end man the Principal Boggins bags. The strange Read pp.36-38. houses carrying bags dress up in frilly of books in the series. collecting all the to do a forfeit and terisation within from the circus is t that it was charac and though ne plot The pace, to knickers. Everyo from them.

Principal enough for them le that versati think are you Do just the books hilarious. s or to s that the circus is individual reader Alfie suddenly realise of be used either as of thieves. The sound as a group. a cover for a gang be read to the class N D THEM ES RATIO NALE A

7

Leabhair Gaeilge

GLAC .CCM _DEFAULT en profile: ult scre Color e Defa Composit

ric - Gene

CMYK

?’

Domsa irdre tanas!

‘Bronn ar Dhe áthais í ín tim oist Bhí scei ph an ar thug fe nuair a t di. an bear

Color profile: _DEFAULT.CCM Composite - Generic CMYK Default screen

6

Age 6+: native speakers/ Age 8+: others

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.

6

Céard a bheadh ann?

Leabhar nua?

p 2004 hainni.v E:...Lam 28 12:51:20 Wed Jul

Bráisléad?

Muince b’fhéidi r?

Nó rud éigin nua

dá cuid gruaige?

7

E:...Lamhainni.v p Wed Jul 28 12:51:25

7 2004

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

8

Leabhair Gaeilge

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

ALSO IN THIS SERIES: ÉASCA PÉASCA

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

Cluiche peile ag rang a sé. Buachaillí in aghaidh cailíní.

Deir na múinteoirí nach bhfuil ann ach spraoi.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

Bród! Onóir! Stádas na mbuachaillí!

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

Le Gabriel Rosenstock Léaráidí le Alan Nolan

Beirt chailíní agus beirt bhuachaillí, ceathrar a bhfuil misneach, fuinneamh agus samhlaíocht acu, sin iad na B ­ leachtairí duit. Níl aon rud is mó a thaitníonn leo ná cás deacair a réiteach!

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

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

Hide and Speak Irish goes further than most picture word books. It offers an effective and simple way to learn over 130 key Irish words following the tried-and-tested method of ‘look, cover and speak’. Using the two wipe-clean flaps at the back of the book to cover the words or the pictures, users can practise speaking or writing the words as many times as they want.

Hide and Speak Irish is organised into fifteen popular themes including farm, school, family, colours and food.

‘A good introduction to the language for children or adult learners.’ Evening Echo ‘Practical, simple and more fun for kids than it sounds!’ Books Ireland

• • •

Wipe-clean flaps can be used over and over again Combines key words and picture prompts HIDE AND SPEAK IRISH also contains an easy to use pronunciation guide • Engaging, humorous full-colour picture spreads illustrate each theme 9

Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+

O’Brien Press Blue Flag books offer a wealth of fiction from award-winning authors with everything from adventure, fantasy and historical fiction to stories of love, friendship and family life. Many books have won awards and have been translated into a wide range of foreign languages, a testament to their quality and popularity.

These hilarious stories for girls and boys alike are great fun, with illustrations and cartoon strips. Plenty of giggles will keep them entertained, and remind your students just how much fun reading can be!

Introducing the first illustrated novel about hurling!

N EW

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

Milo is in all kinds of trouble again when the past catches up with him in this exciting series of adventures from master storyteller Mary Arrigan.

CHAPTER THIRT

EEN

MILO S PLAN

Something has to be done … Ray is getting tired of losing every match he plays with his team, the Ballybreen Terriers. Not only are they constantly at the bottom of the league, they have to face the gloating of rival Dennis ‘Dirty Den’ Conway.

Before they become a laughing stock, Ray persuades Fintan Heffernan, exstar player of U10’s to leave his early retirement and computer games to help bring ‘Dirty Den’ down and lead the Ballybreen Terriers to the victory they deserve.

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

‘A wonderful story … A cracking read.’

– Inis Magazine on Milo and One Dead Angry Druid ‘This exciting supernatural adventure has great humour, pace and cliff hangers that will keep young readers turning the pages and looking forward to more in the series.’ – Children’s Books Ireland on Milo and One Dead Angry Druid ‘[A] consummate storyteller.’

– The Irish Times on Mary Arrigan

N

86

either of us said anything – it wa s like we were waiting for him to waft alo ng and be glad to see us.

The room was pretty messy, which was stra nge because Mi ster Lewis is what Big Ella cal ls a ‘real tidy gen tleman’.

‘What will we do, Milo?’ whispere d Shane, staying close bes ide me.

‘Dunno,’ I gulped , picking up the hat.

We stood ner vously together, looking around the roo m.

87

10

Readers who like the Roald Dahl books and Eoin Colfer’s The Legend of Spud Murphy will like The Milo Adventures.

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

otball

Rugby

Gaelic Fo

The Littlestown Crokes are playing well this season, but off the pitch, with his dad in danger of losing his job, things are tough for captain Danny Wilde.

Nothing keeps the Crokes down for long though, and after lots of GAA action and a fundraising marathon, things begin to look up!

‘A sharply executed tale with plenty of humorous characterisations and some serious storylines thrown in.’ Inis Magazine ‘One young sports obsessive I know sped through the story . . . [and] praised the back-story.’ The Irish Times

N EW

Siggins’ Trilogy - A fantastic rugby trilogy that will thrill any rugby-mad youngster in your class!

Rugby Rebel: Eoin continues his adventures with the oval ball and the world of the supernatural!

Eoin’s rugby is put on hold as his school project on the 1916 Rising keeps him busy! Suddenly, a new ghost enters his life and this new spectre has a Dublin schools rugby background. Kevin Barry, who is wearing a Belvedere College rugby shirt in his most famous portrait, brings 1916 to life for Eoin, as well as teaming up with Eoin’s first ghostly friend, Brian, giving him sporting advice when he most needs it.

TEACHING RESOURCES Loads of free teaching guides are available on www.obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today!

Rugby Warrior

3 pb

4717-173-

-1-8 ISBN 978

r Féile Feve

Gerard Siggins

EN

JOE O’BRI

Guide Teaching HEANEY

p. They the age grou vance to ent and y, resentm a direct rele lry, jealous ome include riva p.

Todd bec s ak-u Danny and y provide t to join family bre Although of the stor tball. is reluctan d foo text ES lic Tod con es and g TH EM friends, play Gae uss the issu The sportin LE A N D Crokes or taken on es to g nity to disc RA TIO NA Littlestown when the class are k featurin ive respons the opportu nges second boo es with a the G.A.A. itive alternat cha the t pos and is e tral Tha er Park examin and neu y continu Féile Fev see Croke and ugh a safe de. The stor a visit to challenges them thro Danny Wil entures, t. ves to k and museum. fresh adv quickly pro environmen forum; e.g. series of his dad Mic .C. a trusted verted, and wn Crokes’ for Danny, can G.A ussion in Todd is con esto ing views dilemmas wn Crokes Class disc tion to Littl re conflict at Littlesto ch. be the solu Time; whe success his friends le pun the most with Circ and ny er Dan would be presents lack of pow presented, sure and Crokes to be the mea The story al for . n a in equ too late sensitivity ever, whe appropriate It is now ond with and dilemm how resp ue, the to of leag S him in at ition salvage the asks then to step challenges ON PO INT d the best trad ce they have DIS CU SSI posure, in ny and Tod circumstan the Féile, and com nter Dan both and host ry p45): Spli rtsmanship. and Low to restore (Read on is last minute G.A.A. spo g Trinity for the acti opportunity nter ion. are watchin ea the context the perfect when Spli at their reputat themes hav Although are ing tennis, candy’. Wh e kes r pride and play rting, the ‘eye Cro wid spo thei a ly as do for the them engage distinct e self belief describes means? How eal and will of the Féil k that he Success and be broad app 1st round n. the do you thin girls might feel to during the of childre through to that restored the audience you think le their way you think : this? Do they batt the es include as like e ed them crib The describ to des cess ls. with suc to desert semi fina ectful way ears resp a app Dealing is it t, fortune n’s sister, s secrets At this poin a friend of Jonatha Danny see Keeping girls? d and ity, 92): When racted break-up pp 87 & of both Tod them. Trin Family ely dist (Read . attentions is complet the impress her catches the Trinity; he trate on Rivalry both try to ma, to concen has ent to the cine Danny and and unable think this ts takes her Resentm d you taun e do Tod y ativ be voc When y game. Wh t might he ts to his pro ut is father. A Jealous and wha you Danny reac g abo ness happened ice would the him of lyin Forgive What adv ms off and accusing thinking? regain his awareness s. Todd stor and Gender to help him row develop field a weakened give him e to l without ?

Y Crokes hav to Trinity in the fina composure lied team n has d SU MM AR d .C. has bee disheartene p 94): Tod think he (Read Crokes G.A y do you efforts of dad. Wh l twist. A Littlestown him. despite the about his think it was has one fina to see however y, they are ? Do you however, nce promoted; stances? k and Jimm lied to her The story, and a cha se circum ches, Mic in the back ride lie in the to find their coa impression k hears wrong to wild horse ws Todd make an and When Mic nge rently, allo ): dad unable to 128 diffe own p gs thin d’s stra both his (Read Jonathan cribe Tod league. iation with des and made a ncil ny ny he reco st, Dan Dan skills both and outbur ny. them to Todd’s by a full Even the with Dan behaviour punch for all about half display vide the to tell him Barry either ng second cannot pro Todd, decision l. When this was A tantalisi including aks his at this leve you think you team, now firms the passion, compete forward bre dad. Do What do ngth ? ke’s pel stre him Cro Cha of con the the e and to Danny n with the Sweeny, wise or fair anship that a collisio restores prid have said rtsm n in ld e ? spo eve cou bon t and collar ing them confidence think he commitmen aking any lie; weaken in the league now promoted.

Hall’s goa without bre Féile has r prospects ing. further; thei iliat k and hum AC H a solution l PRO s look blea dea AP y vide r, pro ting the stor , howeve nted have es suppor Providence Todd Bailey; a tale Guide e issues that The them of Teaching and a e of sensitiv in the form es football player with a rang Rul in school.

Australian ny’s class 1 il to Dan new pup

By PETER

er

Féile Fev

91-5 ISBN 978-1-84717-5 48-6 eBook ISBN 978-1-84717-6

Teaching Guide

By Peter Heaney

at the school. that marked his first term Dylan with all he Later, Eoin acquaints the school and needs to know about to deal with some learns that Dylan has serious domestic issues. discovers that At Castlerock, Dylan as Eoin and his he is in the same dorm are renewed and friends. Acquaintances the boys discover introductions made and Mr McRae, that their new rugby coach, pedigree. has an illustrious All Black into action, Eoin As the new term grinds of the some and his friends identify causes a little ‘hazards’ for Dylan who ambition to take friction by revealing his team. the on Courage Rory’s scrum half position APPROACH new history also discover that their Hope and lively with They ic violence a Kiwi but prefers soccer This story is very fast paced Impact of domest to. teacher is also relate to easy and the characters solid cricket to rugby.

Friendship to PSHE / PDMU and The themes relate easily to gauge their Fairness discussion-based When Mr McRae begins and will facilitate a evident that Dylan Taking responsibility rugby skills, it becomes challenge approach to the novel.

Loyalty be able to mount a credible will the story into three and the scene is set for This guide has divided position Rory’s for s offer suggestions SUMMARY sections and the activitie contention. to a new term Aviva as on developing the themes. the to n Eoin Madden returns excursio Enjoying a day’s his impressive governors, bully at Castlerock. After a treat from the school rugby team Section 1 his campaign of performance for the winning Richie Duffy resumes is considerable s backfire it ol but Scho the previous year, there Eoin, Back in intimidation against will repeat the when the video expectation that he amid applause for Eoin Pages 5 - 59 r, this year he is the final is shown performance. Howeve of his performance in ‘bogger’ from rugby skilled only the not again.

SUMMARY er to the village, Ormondstown; newcom inted not is interrupted After the speeches and disappo him at Castlerock Dylan, will be joining Eoin’s final kicking practice again, Eoin’s a developing is excited about to meet his ghost friend Brian and Eoin anticipates by his grandad, Dixie, who from interest is galvanized when Mr McRae received boy. just new has the he with ip friendsh r’s some photos a new man called Dave Gallahe a s Dylan, by ips, describe also and friendsh final g old last year’s All-Black team.

Settling in and renewin to Ormondstown role in developing the first Eoin as team friend, recently moved the fact that the new rugby coach selects in Castlerock for All the more interesting was him at the who will be joining him captain, immediately putting Donegal. from was r the Gallahe for arrives tions the new term., centre of conflicting expecta s his ‘ghost n his pal Rory with Dixie, Eoin Back at school, Eoin confide scrum half position betwee Viewing the photos move into excitement of secret’ to Alan. Dylan begins to that threatens to and Dylan, a situation recalls all the drama and concerned. in one of them Duffy’s orbit and Eoin is sour their friendships. the day and a blurry image , Eoin of his ghostly g to do some research project he has Decidin particularly, reminds him Galvanized by a history to support him and is pleased to Eoin researches visits the school library friend Brian who helped been asked to undertake, lack of confidence r, the seminal against the bullying and the life of Dave Gallahe

Co Donegal and All Black player from S unique and manages to source some an unexpected and expectations priceless artefacts from Eoin returns to Castlerock recreate winning presentation. a can team ensure to rugby his source are high that the Fr winning s, injury d develop achieve the glory they As the rugby season s year. for Dylan to make Geoghegan Cup the previou offers the opportunity ng Rory and all he has a new set of the team without dislodgi He soon discovers that its head rears past captain as team seems well until Dylan’s challenges to face, both involved with real very valuable and the Gardaí become and as custodian of some concern about his safety. historical artefacts. is a climax of advice from Final day at the Aviva Stadium However, with the benefit ent, both on and , he manages of drama and excitem some very unusual quarters battles to secure off the pitch as the team to steer events calmly. a kidnapping. thwart and victory The themes explored are:

RATIONALE & THEME

11

Teaching Guide

Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+

Magic exists beneath our feet, if we only know where to look …

N EW

AN AuDIENCE WITH ANCIENTS

57

Growing up in a New York orphanage, Ayla has no idea who her family is. It is not until she comes to Ireland that she finds out just how deep her roots really are.

Then her past rises up to haunt her and seeks to destroy her as Ayla is kidnapped and imprisoned deep in the earth.

Above ground, her three best friends set out to find and save her from a fate that has been lying in wait for centuries. Guided by Ayla’s uncles, they must make a treacherous journey that takes them down among the very roots of time.

‘This has the feeling of a modern fairy tale about it, full of the scarily weird and vibrantly wonderful, as you turn the last page you are left standing on the edge of wanting more!’ lovereading.co.uk

Marooned in Manhattan: Evie Brooks had seen New York on TV but suddenly has to leave her home in Dublin and move to Manhattan with her American uncle Scott after the death of her mother.

Evie loves Scott’s NYC veterinary practice and soon starts working as an assistant in the clinic. Between the pets, their owners, Scott and his lawyer girlfriend, the summer quickly becomes a whirlwind of change and activity!

And then Evie has to make a huge choice: will she stay in New York or return to live in Ireland with her godmother, Janet?

Central Park Showdown: With the arrival of her father from Australia, Evie’s life is thrown into turmoil. Not only has she to contend with a new woman in Scott’s life, but now she has to face the prospect of a custody battle between her uncle and her father. She really wants to stay with Scott and, in true Evie style, is determined to stand up for herself – by firing her lawyer.

Can Evie’s friends rally and convince her father to withdraw his application for custody?

‘A great way for a 10+ year old to discover New York City … Speckled with humour throughout … An incredibly moving story and a real page-turner.’ LoveReading4Kids.co.uk

N EW

... step right up, don’t be shy ...

Under cover of darkness a carnival arrives on the green in the centre of Dunbridge. By morning, Grace and her friends are stunned to find the huge red-and-white-striped tent, surrounded by fair rides and carnival folk jostling for business. But everything about the fair seems very old: the Ferris wheel is rusted and creaking, the colours of the tent have dulled with age, and even the performers’ costumes are tattered and old-fashioned.

The carnival holds a dark secret; a curse that has kept them frozen in their current state for decades. But with help from Ms Lemon, the girls discover what the curse is and how to break it.

‘A scary scorcher of a story ... It’s a great read.’

Books Ireland ‘Touches of humour make this story of magic and friendship a good read for lovers of paranormal fiction.’ parentsintouch.co.uk

12

Blue Flag – Reading Level 9+ Stories are a great place to meet and deal with complex issues of friendship, family and the outside world. Judi Curtin’s characters are engaging, funny and will soon be part of your students’ lives.

The Eva series

Alice and Megan

Rich, spoilt, high-maintenance Eva Gordon likes fancy, sophisticated things, so when her parents sell their holiday home and their expensive car Eva can’t understand why.

Follow the story of Eva’s journey from spoilt princess to pretty cool girl!

Nobody’s perfect, and despite her many faults, Eva is an engaging, likable character N EW that will keep your students turning the pages. Essential reading for any class library.

‘Ireland’s answer to Jacqueline Wilson.’ Irish Independent

‘Where this book succeeds so well is in showing the repercussions that decisions made by adults have on children and the ways in which, accordingly, they must live through these. A happy-ever-after scenario is not presented at the end of the novel, but then this would not be feasible either for Megan or for Alice. At once perceptive and humorous ... [it] will doubtless strike a chord with many young readers.’

Jake Hope, www.Achuka.co.uk

TEACHING RESOURCES Loads of free teaching guides are available on www.obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today!

13

Irish Historical Fiction Celtic Pre-History to 17th Century At The O’Brien Press, we have a wealth of novels for young people based on historical events. Over the next few pages we have detailed a chronology of sorts to aid you in combining these novels with a particular time period you are studying with your students. For a full list of children’s historical fiction by The O’Brien Press go to www.obrien.ie/schools/historical-fiction

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

A spectacular tour of Ireland’s history for younger readers, from the Ice Age to the present. The twenty-seven chapters chronicle invasions, wars, Christianity, famine and a divided island, mixed with tales of Celtic head hunters, mysterious stone tombs, the Vikings, the black death, life in castles, the Titanic tragedy, music, mobiles and computers. Essential for every classroom and library.

Over twenty-five activity sheets available.

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

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie A story of immense bravery and daring, as Granuaile takes on the great Norman lords, smuggles weapons and mercenaries for the Ulster Gaelic O’Donnell and O’Neill clans and finally goes to confront Elizabeth Tudor herself. ‘an amazing story of courage, determination and cunning ... Her story is set in one of the most turbulent times in the history of our country and tells of the bravery amongst a people determined to survive.’ Irish Examiner

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

N EW

1689. Derry. The city’s largely Protestant inhabitants resist all attempts by the Catholic King James’s men to storm their gates.

Outside, the Jacobite soldiers resolve to starve the populace into submission ... ‘a significant slice of historic conflict is served with authenticity and sensitivity … a book to encourage imaginations and shows with consideration and compassion how the past is connected to today’ lovereadingforkids.co.uk

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

14

A new adventure for Brian Boru, the boy who would grow up to become High King of Ireland. Brian’s village is in trouble. The water from their river has run dry, and the neighbouring village has been smashed to pieces! Brian and his brothers will need to follow the stinky smell in order to save the day!

N EW

A perfect book for children with an interest in Irish history and mythology, bringing famous scenes from ancient times to life.

Video

Bring fiction and history to life in the classroom

Film is a fantastic learning resource, especially when it complements great works of historical fiction. Combine these DVDs with the books for a complete story experience!

Film treatment of the acclaimed novel, produced by Young Irish Filmmakers.

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

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

Irish Historical Fiction 18th and 19th Century A fictionalised account of the life of James Lovett, son of Lord Dunmain, set in 1730s Dublin and colonial America. This is a fastpaced and intriguing story of adventure, friendship, mystery and survival against the odds. With a great cast of bandits, slaves, cruel and dishonest landlords in a rich historical setting, this will appeal to students and teachers alike.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie International Reading Association Award

Bisto Book of the Year Historical Novel Award

Reading Association of Ireland Premier Award

A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN PRESS HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+

Children of the Famine Trilogy: ground-breaking, award-winning novels that take the reader into nineteenth century Ireland.

Under the Hawthorn Tree (available in Irish as Faoin Sceach Gheal) is set during the famine and follows three children, led by Eily, the eldest, on a trek to find family in a desolate landscape.

Wildflower Girl follows Peggy’s emigration to America.

Fields of Home focuses on Michael, working in a big house as tensions rise and revolution is in the air.

‘Vividly brings history to life for its readers …

A hugely involving tale.’ Mad About Books

Free teaching guides on www.obrien.ie

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) Blood Brother, Swan Sister (Battle of Clontarf) Strongbow (Normans in Ireland)

14th Century The Silver Stag of Bunratty Where the Stones Sing (medieval Dublin)

16th Century

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

Pirate Queen Granuaile: Queen of Storms (graphic novel) Red Hugh (English rule in Ireland, 16th Century)

17th-18th Century

7-567-0

978-1-8471

1-6 -1-84717-65 SistereBook ISBN ISBN 978 her, Swan Blood Brot

sey

Eithne Mas

ide Teaching Gu

the APPROACH oted exploration,

By Liz Morris he has prom oses of this units, Like Sitric, rance For the purp ed into four monasteries. htened tole the been divid and an enlig have now been at which novel has prosperity and rly the pace . Vikings d his subjects the teacher years and though clea Goo ng on s dred to amo end hun dep ing up of the , for over two days lead story is read interactions story of women. Elva in Dublin Set in the rest and el tells the activities, married Irish ng and on the inte 4, this nov n points and many have the eyes of es, has Viki ussio are ugh Friday 101 hero Disc thro ng ed, ks you er wor children. of Clontarf nts. It language-bas one of our Norse fath their pare the Battle acy- and features is a ritage: her many liter people and what . The book Irish mother Irish dual-he four young the truth of which for each unit ith while her of story, and suggested Afterword, as a blacksm the mists is a complex prehensive historical baker. nt is buried in com of ed orta and a ce ns er pen imp pea t ratio heal at really hap people relatively ises the mos iliar to gene has been of the a story fam in detail the most summar time. It is describes the person The country leader of the el. to whom he events, and life for became the in the nov Irish people, . Until now g down his since Brian es featured Brian layin y in the land keep and plac is familiar elderly king powerful arm attempts to r of victory ugh er essful in his in his hou Part 1 and been succ united und books. Thro his people s ue has ry ftain log histo Pro hood s and chie c and ten novel from child the Irish king the story begins, Sitri tifully writ ril 1014 of this beau ng of the ed their 16–17 Ap rule. But, as the pages have invit nd somethi en his to understa Norsemen to help pp7–49 and wom we come the Dublin vian lands ordinary men to the en. the Scandina Munsterm lives of the utes that led allies from LOGUE power of the come in kingly disp PRO the up we ht RY: end And Irish caug r them ble SUMMA le in Clontarf. and his othe uncomforta and the hing last great batt n’s soldiers migration is en by the fast approac long King Bria a is wok ate too that something ped, while ts, led Dar to appreci cultures has eone or allies are cam of different es of longboa the feeling that som him. He glimpses intermingling feature of Irish life. seas are scor hing to be Brodir from across the tive nearby, watc e and it appears this Orkney and been a posi ashore near ping whit Sigurd of explored in e slee ng by be com t ethi his of som h migh . They will d. in the ears Themes whic she is on Isle of Man Tomar’s Woo whispering awake, but de: known as le, Elva too is book inclu the forest is making loyalty -fought batt comrades.

Alva, who dship and dy and hard her sister Frien s. But s camp. the trail of After a bloo his enemie relationship overcome ards the Irish Sibling king choices Turlough her way tow Brian’s men grandson -making /ma and ision h Dec who roug

on his son Mur only leader and convicti PAR T 1 ed (Sitric is the Courage SUMMARY: ridge, he had stay are killed. and homes se on a ibly because Brian Families ough pau n ruled survived, poss walls.) As he prays, ent and loss a and Turl lin, the tow Bereavem town le. The Dar n on Dub ched within the flees the batt and legend looking dow y have mar Myth Brodir, who eard. The the tide has and Silkb that is slain by c late

by Sitri boys are tired ising too n. assia and both never admit it. many drow invaders, real RY Dalc and MA c ped from SUM trap in Sitri they ’d warmth come in, are , though ts of Dublin are caught and sore stree foot e food Arna and lt glad of the i, Elva and April 1014.Th dom are bustling usted, they ld of adu y are very wor a Dara, Skar exha The , n king ted and ’s bee p s plica at cam Silkbeard a white many year the novel in the com of the fires es to see s and, as lin has for rule. But up Dara wak busy. Dub and hostilitie er Sitric’s Liffey. A g of each fall asleep. it to the place, und battle rivalries understandin prosperous and follows is Elva, s. They ated at the lds, their creature, itions grow he was defe appears. This nted the unfo res and trad h to suddenly ever since ksmith, c has rese young girl there is muc Norse blac and other’s cultu Máma, Sitri reciate that Weland, a resources Irish of Gleann of app r and r a brief lin’s to se e ghte Afte Dub Nor dau of healer. his old com in both exploitation it, an Irish towards and value battle with dilemmas, Birg ect do back cal to and resp of ethi off, ares High King find , faced with n, she runs now prep parents are er-in-law and p within to conversatio Her heritage and fath dee se. es his delv longhou enemy, le and t difficult her family’s each of them coming batt n Boru. e the mos ut the forth Ireland, Bria ning and rage to mak anxious abo a love of lear which the cou with honour. with and , ly wise wise de Church, Brian is decisions Teaching Gui Christian endowing ect for the

RATIONALE

& THEMES

Cave of Secrets (17th Century, pirates) Fugitives! (Flight of the Earls) Behind the Walls (Siege of Derry)17th Century Black Wreath (aristocracy, Dublin city)

19th Century

Faoin Sceach Gheal (Irish famine) Fields of Home (Land War) Under the Hawthorn Tree (Irish famine) Wildflower Girl (post-famine emigration)

15

Historical Fiction Centenary of Commemorations To mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising, we have gathered together all of our books about this historical era: you will not be short of extra material for the bookworms in your class! Here you’ll find some fantastic novels that will bring the Easter Rising vividly to life.

There are any number of perspectives to choose from which will make the battle-torn streets of Dublin all the more meaningful for your 3rd to 6th class.

Across the Divide asks what happens when your best friend ought to be your enemy: Liam’s father, a mechanic, is a proud trade union member, while Nora’s father is a prosperous wine importer.

When Jim Larkin takes on the might of the employers in 1913, resulting in strikes, riots and lockouts, Liam and Nora’s friendship is challenged and their loyalties torn.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

N EW

It’s 1916 but Amelia Pim’s thoughts are on Frederick Goodbody and not on the war in Europe. Then Frederick enlists.

Her pacifist Quaker community is shocked but Amelia is secretly proud of her hero. For her friend MaryAnn, there are problems too, with her brother’s involvement in the Easter Rising. What will become of the two young men and what effect will it have on the lives of Amelia and MaryAnn? Free teaching ideas on www.obrien.ie

It is 1916 and Europe is at war. From the poverty of the Dublin slums twelveyear-old Jimmy Conway is pulled between the British Army and the rebels in the Easter Rising.

Free teaching guide and teaching ideas on www.obrien.ie

A sequel to The Guns of Easter. Sarah (Jimmy’s young sister) and her family are involved in the spying activities of Michael Collins during the War of Independence. Sarah, only eleven, cannot figure out why her family is so neutral towards the war and why everybody is so secretive. A strong rebel herself, she wants to do her bit for Ireland. Then she finds out the terrible truth – and she too carries secrets which could cost her her life.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

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

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie Dublin, 1922. Working class Annie Reilly is thrilled to win a scholarship to Eccles Street School. Through a classmate she meets Peter Scanlon, a student in Belvedere College. Peter sides with the rebels in the Civil War and carries messages for them. When Annie’s life is threatened, he has to decide where his loyalties lie.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

16

ear: k of the Y Bisto Boo rd a n Aw Eilís Dillo

ear: k of the Y Bisto Boo rd a Merit Aw

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

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie ‘Excellent collection ... They will impel their readers towards new questioning as to what “war” actually is.’

Robert Dunbar, The Irish Times

Perfect for the school library or further reading: poetry, biography and memoir covering Irish history. See www.obrien.ie/1916-easter-rising

Historical Fiction Early to Mid 20th Century Journey on board the ill-fated Titanic in this thrilling adventure Fifteen-year-old Sam plunges to his death whilst building his beloved Titanic. Now as the greatest ship the world has ever seen crosses the Atlantic Ocean, Sam finds himself on board – as a ghost. But disaster strikes when Titanic hits an iceberg ...

Can Sam’s spirit reach out to save the passengers?

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

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

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN PRESS HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+ 20th Century Spirit of the Titanic (1910s) Survivors (Titanic disaster) Across the Divide (1913 Lockout) Big Jim (1913 Lockout: graphic novel) 1913: Larkin’s Labour War (1913 Lockout: graphic novel) Amelia (suffragettes) SOS Lusitania (World War I) No Peace for Amelia (World War I, 1916 Rising) Friend or Foe? (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) At War WIth The Empire (Irish War of Independence: graphic novel) Katie’s War (Irish Civil War) Taking Sides (Irish Civil War) A Winter of Spies (Irish Civil War)

Graphic Novels: History as you’ve never seen it before. A picture tells a thousand words: a fantastic way to bring history, both ancient and modern, to life for today’s children.

The Easter Rising & War of Independence The patro l reaches

the barr

CONT THIS ACT HQ! ARME IS A FULL D REBE LLIO WE’LL NEED N! REIN FORC urge EMENTS ntly !

Word of

the Risi

ng soon

reached

the slum

An unlikely band of freedom fighters – teachers, poets, writers, patriots, trade unionists – declare an Irish Republic.

From this dramatic gesture, a nation is born …

acks.

JUMP TO IT MAN!

WE HAVE MEN WOUN DED, THE MEDI GET CS THE READ AT Y.

s...

It wasn ’t long before them head the disruptioed to the citymore opportun n caus centre ed by the to avai ist among Rebels’ l of the actions.

OH BOY! HOPE I THEY BOM BED ’VE THE TOY SHOP .

HOLD YOUR WHIS T’ BOY , WE’LL HEAD DRAP TO THE ERS FIRST !

ther gunf e’s been ire at g.p.o. the it’s shinn the ers.

jays us! well bett i er be to get able me pens ion!

15

7

Howth.

Maybe, but ye Dan Breen heard what said. He said ‘Ye don’t know that’s what us’ and we nothing else.say,

‘Gets children into Irish history but through the graphic novel ... A super idea.’ Ryan Tubridy

Big Jim focuses on the activities of Jim Larkin in organising Ireland’s biggest ever labour dispute.

Why have we stop ped?!

Donnybroo k.

6

From the Declaration of Independence in 1919 to guerrilla warfare across the country and the groundbreaking signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921.

I’d know him anywhe re.

McDonn ell And and O’Conn were friends ell of ours. We’ve worked a good deal both of them. with

The story of James Larkin and the events of Dublin 1913 are brought to life in two gripping graphic novels.

What ’s going on?

‘Brings the story of the struggle for Irish freedom to life in a way ... a school history book never could.’ Books Ireland

They’re both are the only dead and we witnesses.

This is awful for us.

THIS AMBUS H AND KILLIN WERE BOTH IRISH CATHO G OF THE TWO RIC AS BEING THE FIRST LICS, IS GENERALLY MEN, WHO ACT OF VOLUNTEERS ACCEPTED IN THE WAR AGGRESSION BY THE OF INDEP ENDENCE. They were all wearin’ But the one masks, right? who spoke to us was not recogn So we did Dan Breen. ise any of them, ya hear me?

Big Jim Larkin and The Great Lockout

Oh pleas e, He’s very sir. No! weak!

They attac ked anyon e and every one in sight .

They pulled

a young

girl from

an outdo or WC and

beat her

They pulled beat him an invalid, John so badly that he McDonagh, from died in hospi his tal short bed and ly after .

up.

Five hundr ed people

in all were

injured.

1913 – Larkin’s Labour War focusses more broadly on Dublin and the life of its citizens at the time.

12

13

17

Historical Fiction 20th Century: World War II and after When her home is destroyed in the 1941 Luftwaffe bombing, Grace Ryan moves in with relatives. There she meets Barry Malone, a boy from Liverpool. Barry begins to suspect their teacher Mr Pawlek of spying for the Nazis. But what starts as an exciting adventure puts their very lives in danger.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

A CHRONOLOGY OF IRISH HISTORY THROUGH O’BRIEN PRESS HISTORICAL FICTION FOR AGE 10+ 20th Century: World War II and after

A home is bombed by a horde of enemy planes. A family has gone, with children left behind: This is the fate of five-yearold Peter and two teenagers Yuri and Tanya. Having to leave school to fight the terrifying Nazis in WWII, and surviving the heat of battle: This is the fate of four classmates, Vlad, Misha, Anton and Leo. The battlefield is the city of Stalingrad, the pride of Russia.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

Safe Harbour (World War II, London blitz) Secrets and Shadows (World War II, Ireland’s neutrality) Faraway Home (World War II, kindertransport) 17 Martin Street (World War II, Jewish children) City of Fate (World War II, Stalingrad) Stormclouds (Northern Ireland Troubles)

Twins Dylan and Emma Goldman move from Washington to Belfast when their journalist father is sent to cover the turbulent early days of the civil rights movement. They become friends with Maeve, from the Falls Road, and Sammy, from a staunchly loyalist background.

The complicated friendships prove lifethreatening when the simmering tensions in Northern Ireland erupt into violence in the summer of 1969.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

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

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

Graphic Novels: a medium that children are very familiar with. These tellings of historical and mythical lives are challenging, but draw older children in with great art and story.

Dub

My brave warriors of Umaill.

N EW

lin

the water that feeds us with its bounty, that receives our warriors into its endless grasp.

Today we become one with the sea.

The time has come for us stand for all to Today we sail we believe in. into the waters that nursed us from birth,

So let us darken with the blood it those Spaniards of who would steal what's rightfull y ours.

Why I Grainne?

But you're a-

I was fift off to aneen whe n I was Curr old an, Vikin mar Nor arra ried se king g, Ola nge f men fam of Dubl t my ily aristoc wealth hoped in. An wou and ld brin ratic Gae protect g gre lic ion. ater

Silence! Speak not a word of this or it won't

just be our enemies’ women keening a lament.

Eh? What?

let their women lament, let us orphan their young, they will never take our way of life from us, for we are Umaill.

‘they root the way the tree gates of down to theall hell them selves.’

26

26

Strength

An epic saga of greed, sorcery and one man’s heroic sacrifice. This unique and powerful graphic novel, by an artist/writer who has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, brings to life the legendary figure that is Cú Chulainn, Ireland’s mythological hero.

18

He was

a fair rece ntly man . built con churche verted He had of the s for . Now he one the and glo sing le God ry .

You're a bit skinny for a sailor, ain't you?

You're a bit thick for one!

Hold your tongue, boy, no one addresses Domhnall of the Battles that way.

9

Follow the astounding and sometimes tragic tale of Ireland’s own Queen of Storms. Brought to stunning life in this graphic novel retelling of one Ireland’s greatest stories.

The rise of a local chieftain to become High King of Ireland, fighting native and Danish invader alike in a whirlwind of constant conflict. Brian’s wife, Gormfhlaith, a woman caught between the ever shifting forces of destruction, battles to save her family. A stirring graphic novel telling the life of Ireland’s most famous chieftain.

Themes Fantasy & Other Worlds Why themes? We recognise that teachers have been using our books for many years and this experience has informed our approach to using real books in the classroom. In response to requests from teachers, we have suggested some of the many novels dealing with themes of friendship, school life, families and cultural diversity. Don’t forget there are FREE teaching resources available for use with many of these O’Brien Press books. For a full list of themes and relevant novels for your class please visit www.obrien.ie/schools/themes If you’re covering the theme of fairytales, or thinking of exploring a class novel that will lend itself easily to the Drama curriculum, then take a look at the titles in our ‘Fantasy & Other Worlds’ section …

All the themes featured on www.obrien.ie/schools/themes

Adventure Animal Life Boy/Girl/Teen Relationships Bullying Cultural Diversity Difference, prejudice, intolerance Environmental Care Family Relationships Fantasy, Other worlds Friendships History Humour Information Issues Myth and Legend Other People and Lands Personal Challenge Politics School Life Sport Stories and Storytelling Traditional Tales/Nursery Rhymes Visual and Performance Arts

Poor Anna Kelly has been adopted by witches!

Her guardians, Grizz and Wormella Mint, want Anna to help them with their nasty spells!

She’d much rather be out playing, but is stuck in their horrible house, chopping up toadstools and scrambling frogspawn, with only Charlie the cat for company.

Then she discovers an evil, old spell book in the cellar – can Anna make the magic work for her?

When Shane’s gran digs up a weird ancient stone, best buddies Milo and Shane find themselves face to face with its owner − one dead angry druid.

Willie Jones’s lizard goes mental and Shane disappears. Milo is in deep, deep trouble and he needs a rescue plan before midnight strikes.

When Bella Blackwell moves in next door, life takes a frightening and thrilling turn for Mia. Her brother and granny don’t trust ‘The Bird Woman’, and when she disappears their fear become real.

A thrilling adventure story from Ireland’s best-selling children’s author.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

Selected Fantasy & Other Worlds Blue Flag titles

The Battle for the Castle The Castle in the Attic The Demon Notebook (and sequels) Dream Invader Éasca Péasca Faery Nights The Gods and their Machines The Harvest Tide Project (and Under Fragile Stone)

Out of Nowhere Rugby Spirit (and Rugby Rebel, Rugby Warrior) Spirit of the Titanic Where the Stones Sing The Wish List

Find titles for all themes at www.obrien.ie/schools/themes

19

Themes Humour Strictly speaking, you might not consider choosing ‘humour’ as a theme for planning – but the fun-filled novels in this section will completely engage even the most reluctant of readers in your class. You’ll find it hard to keep the giggles at bay!

Marion ‘Mick’ Mulligan is a failed sci-fi author whose dreams become nightmares when he is abducted by extraterrestrials and abandoned on a lawless frontier planet.

Together with his alien buddies Crk-TishCrrrkkk and Zeebo and his mechanical sidekick, RUNT, Mulligan must lead a daring jailbreak, battle robo-revolutionaries on an android planet and fight false murder charges on a spacebound sphere of pure water as he desperately tries to find his way home to Earth.

Charlie would love a bike, but his family cannot afford one. Then he manages to assemble a strange-looking bike from old bits and pieces – not exactly cool, but full of character. In fact, so full of character that it almost begins to develop a life of its own!

This strange bike changes Charlie’s life ...

Free activity sheets and classrom ideas on www.obrien.ie

A sequel to the story of Little Red Riding Hood, Wolfgran is a wonderfully irreverent take on the world of fairy tales. Disguised as a little old lady, the Wolf is causing mayhem as he prowls the city streets.

See also Wolfgran Returns

Other Books with this theme Black Flag

Death By Chocolate The Fridge In a Denim Jacket!

Little Piggies Mouse TV

Yellow Flag Alfie Green and the Magical Gift (and all other Alfie Green books) The Big Break Detectives Casebook The Leprechaun Who Wished He Wasn’t The Lough Neagh Monster Marco Moves In (also Marco: Moonwalker and Marco: Master of Disguise)

Red Flag

Animals Don’t Have Ghosts Boom Chicka Boom The Great Pig Escape Jimmy’s Leprechaun Trap Leprechaun on the Loose Thar an Trasnán

Blue Flag

Alice Next Door (and the other Alice and Megan titles) Benny and Omar (and Benny and Babe) It Wasn’t Me Jimeen Milo and One Dead Angry Druid (and the other Milo books) My Nasty Neighbours The Wish List

Green Flag Cindy, a with-it and cynical young teen, still traumatised by her mother’s recent death, is appalled when her father falls in love with one of her teachers, a woman with two teenage daughters of her own ...

A modern take on Cinderella.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

20

The Real Rebecca (and the other Rebecca titles)

Find more books with this theme at www.obrien.ie/schools/humour

Themes Cultural Diversity Perhaps you will be covering the strand unit ‘People and other lands’ in Geography, or you are aiming to developing empathy in your class through SPHE. The following novels would integrate well with these curricular areas, and help to explore cultural diversity in a meaningful way with your class. The free resources to accompany each novel will make project work or further development on this theme even easier.

The hilarious debut novel from one of the world’s favourite children’s authors. Benny Shaw, a young sporting fanatic, is forced to leave his beloved Wexford, home of all his heroes, and move with his family to Tunisia! How will he survive in a place like this? Then he teams up with Omar, and a madcap friendship between the two boys leads to trouble, crazy escapades, a unique way of communicating, and heartbreaking challenges.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie Yola’s leg is blown off by a landmine and her life in Africa is changed forever. When Yola travels to Ireland to be fitted with an artificial leg and meets seventeen-yearold Fintan, she little realises that they will soon be involved in an international arms intrigue, and an adventure that will bring them both close to death.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

In the commune at the edge of a forest in Colombia, life is blissful. Until the guerrillas come and Pepe must flee with his mother, leaving behind his favourite horse, El Dorado.

His future looks grim until his Irish grandparents offer him another chance. But can thirteen-year-old Pepe go all on his own to this strange, cold land, the birthplace of his father? And what future awaits him there?

Will he ever have the chance to ride his beloved horses again?

Joshua is like all the other village boys, helping out at the market, making a little money from the tourists, getting up to mischief. But is it true what everyone is saying – that Joshua’s father is a ‘mountain man’, one of the people feared and mistrusted by the villagers?

When Joshua’s life takes an unexpected turn, he discovers that being different does matter.

Free teaching guide on www.obrien.ie

Find more books with this theme at www.obrien.ie/schools/cultural-diversity TEACHING RESOURCES Loads of FREE teaching guides are available on www.obrien.ie/schools – try them in your classroom today!

21

www.obrien.ie/schools Our schools homepage makes it easier than ever to find all the FREE resources and additional material that is on our website.

Browse existing, new and forthcoming titles: or by series, category, etc Read extracts from our new releases Find out more about your favourite authors

Read, download and print hundreds of FREE teaching resources, from Teaching Guides to Activity Sheets, classroom ideas and more.

See the covers of O’Brien Press titles from all around the world! Great for exploring cultural diversity Check out Valerie Coghlan’s guide to starting and updating your school library Interviews and reviews from our authors and readers Check out great titles perfectly suited to secondary school classes

One Book, One Community

www.obrien.ie/schools/one-community

22

This unique collaboration between schools, libraries and the local community has been sweeping across Ireland over the last number of years. We are delighted that our titles and authors have been at the forefront of so many of these wonderful projects.

Check out how it all works on our website!

If you would like to talk about title selection, project ideas or direct purchase of books for your project, please contact Jamie O’Connell (jamie@obrien.ie).

www.obrien.ie Book Pages So you’ve picked your O’Brien Press class title.

Here’s how www.obrien.ie supports your teaching!

CASE STUDY! Stormclouds by Brian Gallagher www.obrien.ie/stormclouds

Most of our favourite titles are now available as eBooks. Buy directly or from any eBook retailer Select a tab to view additional material and resources Under ‘Reviews’, find out what the critics have been saying about Stormclouds (hint: they love it!).

Read a preview of our books on our website, to help you decide if a particular book will suit your classroom

Author interviews, readings and other video content are a sure-fire classroom hit. Also available on the O’Brien Press YouTube channel

Download FREE teaching guides with summaries, themes, discussion points and individual, group and class activities

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE

23

Real books, excellent resources Want more resources, reviews, competitions, author visits?

Magazines, twitter, facebook, websites: you’ll find us wherever teachers meet ...

28

for readers age 6+ (Mythical Activity Control). Also look out for: The Beast of Belfast, Viking Thunder in Dublin, The Lord in the Lake in Limerick, and Queen Maebh’s Raging Return to Galway!

edition of the book, with a fantastic new cover designed by Shelagh-Jessica Gilbourne from Millstreet, Co Cork – winner of the CBI/O’Brien Press Design a Cover competition!

into a bright star in the sky. This story touches upon a subject rarely dealt with, in the most beautiful and positive way imaginable. From the award winning author of The Fearsome Beastie.

CLASS ACT

by Debbie Thomas (Mercier Press) Brian O’Bunion is bottom of the class, last in every race; never invited to parties he sometimes wishes he could just disappear. This is a buzzing tale of bullies and battleaxes, a bossy fossil and a bravehearted boy who makes the grade outside the classroom. Kildare native and established author Debbie Thomas is back with another story full of crazy characters, fantastic adventures and deliciously zany use of language!

THOMAS & FRIENDS: ORIGINAL RAILWAY SERIES

by The Rev. W. Awdry (Egmont) The famous Railway Series has been delighting children with the adventures of Thomas the Tank Engine, Percy, Henry, the Fat Controller and all their friends since the publication of 'The Three Railway Engines' in 1945. This beautifully produced Classic Library features all 26 of the original books, each containing a lively assortment of stories and beautifully reproduced illustrations in a special collector’s box set.

SHH! WE HAVE A PLAN

by Chris Haughton (Walker Books) From the multi awardwinning author-illustrator of A Bit Lost and Oh No, George!, comes a picture book about a beautiful bird, four friends and plans gone wrong... One hilarious foiled plan after another and it's clear that this goofy gang cannot catch the elusive birdie! But the littlest of the group, a quiet spectator, knows that a bit of kindness can go a long way. Will his friends follow his gentle lead or get themselves into even more trouble?

A TIME TRAVELLER'S GUIDE TO LIFE, THE UNIVERSE & EVERYTHING

by Ian Flitcroft & Britt Spencer (O’Brien Press) Join Albert Einstein and understand the science behind everything from the origins of the universe to the meaning of life, relativity, black holes, quantum mechanics (for beginners), climate change, evolution vs. intelligent design, and how the brain works. This innovative graphic novel delivers fun and easy-to-understand, bite-sized facts and is packed with fantastic artwork.

ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS

by Lewis Carroll (Alma Books) Published to coincide with Alice in Wonderland’s 150th anniversary, this unique edition includes John Tenniel’s iconic engravings, the sequel Through the Looking Glass and a facsimile of Alice’s Adventure’s Under Ground, the early manuscript version illustrated by Lewis Carroll himself. As well as the unforgettable characters, it is the book's experimental style, linguistic inventiveness, and jokes and puzzles that continue to fascinate.

BUSY ALICE IN WONDERLAND (Campbell Books) 2015 marks the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and in Alice's adventures, nothing's ever as it seems! Go down the rabbit hole with this magical board book for young children, beautifully illustrated by Colonel Moutarde. Push, pull and turn mechanisms bring the story to life introducing Alice, the White Rabbit, March Hare, Mad Hatter, Dormouse and of course the Queen of Hearts.

ACTION MOVIE KID

by Daniel Hashimoto & Mandy Richardville (Simon & Schuster) Meet Action Movie Kid, whose adventures began on YouTube and continue in his first book, a thrilling tale of the heroic acts and daring deeds that fill his day and follow him to bedtime-and beyond!

Monsters, aliens, and robots are no match for James's super strength and infinite cleverness. An interactive picture book for young children and their parents – download the app, snapshot the book cover and bring Action Movie Kid to life!

PUCKER POWER

by Kevin Stevens (Little Island) In more adventures of disastrous superheroes, The Powers, this tale centres on the adventures of Pucker, the Power family's mutt of a pugdog. After he is dognapped, along with a beautiful French poodle, the Powers must follow the clues through Dublin, Paris and St Petersburg to bring their beloved pup back home. Check out readthepowers.com for blogs from one of the characters, and an animated book trailer and theme song.

UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED

by Michael Rosen (Bloomsbury) Malcolm is in all ways an ordinary ten-year-old. This is a perfectly ordinary story featuring one perfectly ordinary ten year old, his very bossy uncle, some baked beans, a school which tries to make interesting things BORING, the famed Italian city of Ponky, and a genie who appears when you rub your nose. It also includes lots of useful facts, many of which are untrue. A completely bonkers comic fiction book that leaps off the page!

Primary Times

SUMMER ISSUE

Of course, you can find it all at www.obrien.ie

O’Brien Press real books: what children want to read!

Where Can I Find O’Brien Press Books?

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

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

3. 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.

4. BUYING DIRECTLY: Orders can be placed by post, telephone, fax or e-mail: The O’Brien Press, 12 Terenure Road East, Rathgar, Dublin 6, 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.

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)