Live Literature Mentoring Programme

Something no one ever tells you when you start writing books for children is that a big part of the job becomes school visits and publishing events. And these opportunities don’t just land in your lap — you, the author, have to start by approaching schools, conferences, festivals.

Which is something many of us writers fear to begin with! It’s much more comfortable sitting behind a computer screen, coming up with stories by yourself, than it is pitching yourself as someone worth seeing.

I knew I needed to start facing some fears of mine this year around public speaking. But where to begin? Who to contact? What to present?

Then came the opportunity to apply for the Laureate na nÓg’s new Live Literature Mentoring Programme. And I’m ecstatic to share that I am one of the four selected mentees!

Here’s a description of what’s in store:

Running until September 2025, artists will learn how best to present themselves and their work to a live audience for schools, libraries and festivals as part of this scheme. Encompassing a range of creative and practical supports, mentor Patricia Forde will host training sessions and live workshops with fellow industry experts so that débuts can confidently conduct live literature performances with young audiences and ensure the continued provision of excellent events for young readers across Ireland in the years to come.  

Isn’t that just such a great opportunity? I can’t wait to dive in and focus on how best to share my books with readers, and gain some real experience in the Irish school system with a supportive group.

Thanks to Patricia Forde, Ruth Ní Eidhin, and Children’s Books Ireland for their selection.