John Burke and Kathi ‘Fatti’ Burke are the father–daughter team behind the bestselling, award-winning series of books . Kathi is an illustrator and John is a retired primary school teacher. The first book in their Little Library series, Granuaile, was published in autumn 2018.
Granuaile - The Pirate Queen
Learn about Ireland’s original rebel girl in this exciting new series of inspirational Irish lives This book focusses on Granuaile, the daughter of a great trader and sea captain, Eoghan O’Malley of Mayo. Living in a castle on Clare Island 500 years ago, Granuaile spent her childhood on the sea in boats of all shapes and sizes. Granuaile’s parents wanted her to do what other girls did, to be a good girl and get married and settle down. But Granuaile had other ideas…
This superb illustrated book on this historic icon and fearless leader is a must to begin every child’s collection of inspiring Irish lives.
Tom Crean: The Brave Explorer
Tom Crean was one of ten children who grew up on a farm near Anascaul in County Kerry. He loved adventure and, at the age of 15, he ran away to join the British Navy and sail around the world.
While his ship was moored in New Zealand, Tom met Captain Robert Scott. Scott’s dream was to be the first person ever to reach the South Pole and he asked Tom to join his crew.
Get ready to discover epic tales of endurance, bravery and determination in this inspiring life story of Tom Crean.
Constance Markievicz - The Rebel Countess
Constance Markievicz grew up in Co. Sligo in the late 1800s with a dream: she wanted Ireland to become free and the people to be treated fairly. She spent her life working to make these things happen. With rebellion in the air, she was asked for advice on how a lady should dress. Her answer? ‘Dress suitably in short skirts and strong boots, leave your jewels in the bank and buy a revolver.’
And the Easter Rising began …
Brian Ború - The Warrior King
Brian Ború grew up in a large warrior family over 1,000 years ago in Killaloe, Co Clare. One of twelve sons, Brian and his brothers practiced raids on other counties from the River Shannon. Eventually, Brian’s army and navy grew to be so big that he became King of all Ireland. But up in Dublin, the Vikings were invading. So he gathered his men and went into battle …
Mary Robinson - The first female president of Ireland
Mary Robinson grew up with four brothers – something which gave her an interest in women’s rights from a young age! She was a brilliant student and worked hard, becoming the youngest professor of law in Ireland. From law to politics, the presidency to the United Nations, Mary has spent her life fighting for equality, human rights and climate justice.
Get ready to be inspired …