JM Agency is delighted to announce that Scairt na Samhna – Áine sa Neidín, the Irish-language edition of Hazel Mulqueen’s Howl at Halloween – Áine Goes to Kenmare, has been shortlisted for Gradam de Bhaldraithe 2026 at the Oireachtas Publishing Awards.
Written by Hazel Mulqueen, illustrated by Kenmare artist Catherine Woods and translated into Irish by Ciara Begley, the book follows young Áine as she travels from Dublin to spend Halloween with her granny in Kenmare. Rooted in family, community and Irish tradition, the story explores the magic of Halloween in Kerry while celebrating the passing of customs and a sense of place from one generation to the next.
JM Agency worked closely with Hazel in developing the project and managed the publication of both the English and Irish-language editions. Designer Parvathi led the design of the books, bringing Hazel’s story and Catherine’s illustrations together beautifully on the page, while Joanne Cafferky undertook the proofread of the English edition.
Jeremy, who managed the publication for the author, remarked, ‘Seeing Scairt na Samhna – Áine sa Neidín recognised by An tOireachtas is a particularly proud moment for all of us at the agency. Books like Scairt na Samhna– remind us that introducing children to Irish language, culture and traditions can happen through stories that are warm, engaging and rooted in experiences they recognise … I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to Hazel, Catherine and Ciara, and to all of the authors, translators and publishers shortlisted in the 2026 Oireachtas Publishing Awards. Working with Hazel on this wonderful book was an absolute pleasure and honour for all the team.’
The shortlisting is a wonderful recognition of the care and collaboration that went into the project, and a particularly proud moment for everyone involved. Scairt na Samhna – Áine sa Neidín and Howl at Halloween – Áine Goes to Kenmare are available from bookshops across Ireland and online.