Hazel Mulqueen with her new book pictured in Kenmare.A NEW children’s book set in Kenmare has been shortlisted for a prestigious Gradam de Bhaldraithe.
Awarded by An tOireachtas, the prize recognises the Best Book translated into Irish this year. Hazel Mulqueen’s “Scairt na Samhna – Áine sa Neidín”/ “Howl at Halloween – Áine goes to Kenmare” is set during the annual Halloween Howl festival in Kenmare, and is illustrated by Kenmare native Catherine Woods.
Whilst highlighting the parade other local landmarks have been incorporated into the story including Reenagross Park, Dick Joynt’s stone sculpture the Music Makers and the Town Square all decked out for Halloween. The book was translated by Ciara Begley.
Continued below…
Hazel is a native of Ballingarry, Co. Limerick, but moved to Dublin where she worked as a primary school teacher and raised two boys with her husband Paul.
Since retiring, County Kerry has found a special place in her heart. The beauty of the landscape and the cultural richness of local traditions inspired her to write ‘Howl at Halloween – Áine Goes to Kenmare /Scairt na Samhna – Áine sa Neidín’.
Hazel pointed out that “the story highlights time-honoured children’s Halloween traditions including playing snap apple, carving pumpkins, and enjoying traditional Halloween treats of colcannon and barmbrack”.
“The book will appeal to four- to eight-year-olds and parents, grandparents or teachers who wish to explore traditional Halloween customs with their children, grandchildren or classes,” she added.
The books are available at local libraries, independent bookshops and at Buy The Book.
