Tír na nÓg

Two of O'Brien's stars, Erika McGann and Conor Busuttil, have come together to create this lovely new book. We all know the story of Oisin and Tir na nÓg - but this is Niamh and Tir na nÓg, the first version I've ever seen from Niamh's point of view, which feels like such an obvious oversight! Conor's artwork is amazing, slightly cartoony in the best way and full of detail. I've loved his other books but this might be his best yet! I'm sure I'm missing loads, but I do love the carving on the stone pillar - vibrant and new when Niamh comes for Oisin, overgrown and rubbed down when he returns. This is a fabulous addition to O'Brien's list of folklore inspired titles, and I can't wait to see what else this partnership comes up with. 

-- ReadAndReviews

A truly special retelling of the popular folktale of Niamh, Oisin, and Tir na nOg, Busuttil's gift of characterisation balances the imagery delicately between the ethereal otherworld and the wellworn faces of humanity that readers can relate to. While on the surface, this retelling of a tale well-told remains faithful to the original Irish folktale, McGann's version is also a rumination on what it means to be human and how the fragility of life is what makes it so special

-- Irish Examiner

gorgeous … look at the illustrations ... very relevant and very warm

-- Ireland AM, Elaina Ryan of CBI

Like Niamh in Tir na nOg, some stories never get old, nor do we tire of re-reading them. There can be few Irish people who don't know the tale of how Oisin joins the beautiful Niamh in the land of eternal youth, but after 300 years yearns to see his home again and after slipping from her horse, turns to ashes as he ages in an instant. Yet there is always a new perspective to be taken on legends. First, Co Down native Conor Busuttil, illustrator of O'Brien's Children of Lir and Ulster Fairytales and Legends, entices readers into Tir na nOg with richly-detailed scenes bursting with life and vibrant colour. There, however, Oisin ultimately realises that perpetual perfection is not what makes our existence worthwhile, and that it is our life experiences, for better or worse, that define us as humans. Louth native Erika McGann explores how amid her heartbreak over Oisin, Niamh finds hope, sharing her grief with a new circle of friends and drawing strength from the warmth of human kindness

-- Irish Examiner

A truly special retelling of the popular folktale … Busuttil and McGann’s combination of considerate storytelling and ethereal illustrations signal a rebirth for this well-loved tale … A rumination on what it means to be human alongside the fragility of life

-- Children's Books Ireland's Northern Li