November and December are book launch season in Ireland, and none is more special than Classroom Hero by David Graham, a beautifully illustrated children’s story with a very topical message.
The ‘classroom hero’ in question is introspective Fionn. Like all children, Fionn is anxious to fit in and be like everyone else, but when the time comes for his class to partake in First Holy Communion, Fionn, not participating, suddenly feels excluded. Things take a dramatic turn when Fionn witnesses a fellow classmate, Sophie, being bullied, thus beginning a strong and unexpected friendship.
Classroom Hero delicately grapples with a very relevant issue, namely the effects of the religious patronage of schools in Ireland, and how to ensure children of all faiths and backgrounds feel included. David’s book carries a poignant message highly relevant to current debates, while also addressing a timeless theme, namely how to feel part of a world so rich in differences.
David Graham is a parent and campaigner for equality in Irish education. Advance reviews of Classroom Hero have been overwhelmingly positive, with bestselling author and journalist Fintan O’Toole writing, ‘Classroom Hero uses vivid storytelling and relatable images to bring to life the experiences of primary school children who are made to feel that they don’t fit in. It’s a tender, engaging, and insightful book about exclusion and belonging that will give courage and comfort to kids and their parents.’
The book is embellished with characterful illustrations by Fiona Boniwell.
Jeremy Cassia and Sarah worked closely with Jennifer Matthews and all the Lettertec Ireland Ltd. team to ensure David’s book was published to an exceptional standard. We are all very proud of the final publication, with the extent and depth of editing and mentoring evident in the quality of the finished story.
Classroom Hero will be launched in the James Joyce Centre, (Kenmare Room), N Great George’s St., Dublin, Tuesday the 5th, 6-8pm. All are welcome to help us ensure David’s debut book receives the festive send-off it deserves. The book can be purchased through Lettertec Books.
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