India, Ancient Rome, Narnia, Neverland and that stable in Bethlehem – what have these got in common, you might ask. Well, they all crop up in the fantastic collection of works from publisher, An Gúm, launched this evening. Well known broadcaster from TG4 and Raidió na Gaeltachta, Eibhlín Ní Chonghaile, did the honours for the launch which took place at the headoffice of Foras na Gaeilge on Amiens Street in Dublin. In her speech she mentioned the variety and breadth of the publications brought our during the year, works which include primary and post-primary texts, reading material for young people and a wide range of on line and print resources.

An Eala Órga is another wonderful product of the creative co-operation between author Gabriel Rosenstock and artist Brian Fitzgerald. A collection of quirky folktales from India the text and illustrations are both presented in an enchanting style. Publishing translations of famous works for young people is a longstanding tradition of An Gúm, one that is alive and well. This year saw a beautiful re-issue of Máiréad Ní Ghráda’s classic edition of Peter Pan, Tír na Deo, as well as a masterful translation by Antain Mac Lochlainn of the C.S. Lewis Narnia chronicle, The Horse and his Boy, An Capall agus a Ghiolla.

Is mise Manachán Maximus and Pádraigín Phléascach: Raic agus Ribíní will have young readers in the 10-13 age group (and their parents) laughing out loud at the humour, irreverence and madcap antics contained in these two illustrated titles.

Suaimhneas sa Stábla by Gabrielle Ní Mheachair is a completely different take on that familiar story told at this time of year.  Seán is a little mouse who just want’s to be able to get a good rest. He’s thwarted in this however, by the infernal racket going on in his stable. He’ll have to put manners on that crowd. That crowd however are somewhat special. Fergal O’Connor’s illustrations make this book a real gem.

As well as all that there are new resources for the Séideán Sí on line primary school project as well as new history and environmental resources for senior primary classes and Wood Technology and Constructions Studies material for second-level schools. A rich publishing harvest from the redoubtable staff at An Gúm.

More information:

Teil: 01 639 8400│Email: angum@forasnagaeilge.ie