31 young authors chosen from over 6,000 entries across Ireland to have their stories published in aid of Barnardos Children’s Charity!
“Taking my eye off the game I glanced in the direction of our audience. To the fore was that devoted army of parents (embarrassingly enough with my lunatic mother leading them in chant.) Such a sight was engaging and dovetailed with the copious amount of unanticipated followers surrounding them, was inspiring”. Alison Fagan, Westmeath, age 16.
Following a nationwide competition by Londis and Barnardos in April of this year, 31 young authors aged between 5 and 18 years have had their stories published in “Write up my Street”, a powerful and inspiring collection of short stories based around community life in Ireland today. Londis received over 6,000 entries from young people all over Ireland who wrote short stories based around the theme “Community, The People, The Place and The Pride!”.
Launched earlier this year by Ireland’s favourite twins, Jedward, the “Write up my Street” book goes on sale exclusively in Londis stores nationwide from September.Proceeds from the sale of the book will go to Barnardos Children’s Charity.The number of entries this year shows how the competition is growing year on year. Each story paints a picture of community life which is extremely strong, depicting communities which strengthen in the face of adversity and flourish in the collective achievements of their people.The book is a wonderful insight in to the power of community though the eyes of Ireland’s young people.It is a unique celebration of “Community, The People, The Place and The Pride!”.
Commenting on the launch Ruth Norton, ADM Londis said: “The response this year has been superb. With over 6000 entries from all across the country it was always going to be a difficult task to choose only 30 stories. I would like to thank all the young people who entered and have helped to create a book which will inspire community spirit across Ireland.”
Fergus Finlay CEO, Barnardos said: “Barnardos' mission is to support families, communities, society and government to make Ireland the best place in the world to be a child, focusing specifically on children and young people whose well-being is under threat. Every day we see the challenges faced by Ireland’s young people but we also see their strength and pride in various communities throughout the country.We celebrate those strengths every day.We all want our children to be part of and contribute to the collective power of their individual communities.This book illustrates just a handful of the great stories we received.It is a delight to read and will inspire each of us, men, women and children, to become active community participators!”
Books are now on sale, you can buy your copy of "Write up my Street" in any Londis store Nationwide and help Barnardos build stronger communities around those that need it most.
