LONG READ: Tipperary author says that writing for children 'is a joy'

A Tipperary children’s author was delighted to hear that her books are to be stocked by a leading supermarket chain.

Clonmel woman Julie Kennedy Fogarty says she is “over the moon” with the confirmation that Tesco is to stock both her books, ‘Reuben’s Hunt for a Home’ and ‘The Coolest Pet’, saying “it is simply the best news”.

She says, “It’s fantastic to think that my two books will be so accessible to people as really when you think of it, supermarkets are the most democratic of places.

Julie says that writing for children is a joy and that reading offers a wonderful retreat for children from the omnipresence of social media, saying that encouraging them to love books is one of the best gifts they will ever receive.

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“I am quite the cheerleader for reading and books. Reading opens a world of possibilities—it fosters language, imagination, emotional understanding and connection. It helps children build empathy, develop critical thinking, and feel part of something bigger than themselves.

“A book can be a friend, a guide or an escape, all in one. That magic stays with us for life. If I had my way, I’d be tucked up at home writing, lost in the work itself. I think picture books are so valuable for young children and through a combination of words and visuals, really important messages can be explained and explored by children.

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“When I became a mum—with my kids born close together —picture books quickly became part of our daily rhythm. Those early years were transformative. I discovered a world full of clever, funny and beautifully- written children’s books and, admittedly, a few not-so-great ones too!

“That stirred something in me. I wanted to create stories that could inspire young readers, bring a smile or a giggle, and offer meaningful moments along the way.

“There’s something magical about stories that stand the test of time, and that’s exactly what I hope to create: books that feel classic, timeless, and that children want to revisit again and again. Stories that stick, that matter, and that bring a little spark to everyday moments”.

Julie says she has spent years in finance - “(still do!), but I found myself craving something more creative and imaginative—exactly what children’s books offer. I’ve always been drawn to stories that connect, uplift and spark joy. Jumping into that world has been such a happy adventure.

“I love how picture books force you to make every word count. And writing in rhyme? That’s a whole adventure—finding the rhythm, the mood and telling a full, engaging story in just 12 spreads. It’s tricky but totally worth it”.

While Julie admits that she would like nothing more than to write for a living, the practicalities of life mean that she snatches time to write late at night or when her kids are busy pursuing their thing.

“It’s a busy, bustling house with four young children from 8 to 4 and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I also still work in finance, for a financial planning firm in Clonmel, Eolas Money, who are so incredibly supportive of me. I tend to grab moments to write when I can.

“Sometimes, I even sneak in a quick writing session when I can carve out an hour here and there. It’s a bit of a patchwork, but I try to make it count”.

Julie says that writing has become a way for her to blend creativity with purpose.

“Truthfully, I also felt that Irish voices were underrepresented in children’s picture books. That lit a quiet but determined fire in me to start writing—and to bring something fresh and homegrown to the bookshelf”.

Julie says that while she always had a deep grá for books, fostered by her family who encouraged reading as a way of transporting her into another magical world, ploughing her own furrow as a writer was not without challenge, and she credits one of Ireland’s best- known business women for lighting the flame that set her on her path.

So, once the spark was well and truly fired, Julie began honing her craft in earnest and wasted no time in bringing her books into being.

“I had already begun writing ‘Reuben’s Hunt For A Home’ and the story kept calling me back, evolving over time. At its heart, I was drawn to the idea of Reuben finally finding where he belongs. I also wanted to explore the notion that home isn’t just a physical place—it’s the people who surround you with love and acceptance. Home is a feeling. It’s the memories, the special fleeting moments of pure unadulterated happiness, contentment and safety.

“‘The Coolest Pet’ was a book I started in 2023 and it’s inspired by the relentless requests at home for a dog; four young voices in unison for the same aim! However, while the dog has not yet materialised, let’s just say our house has had some very unconventional creatures suggested for adoption instead! Hence ‘The Coolest Pet’.

“The children get a great kick out of the fact that their pleas for a dog became the inspiration for my book. They’re my best critics and my biggest fans. They’ve helped shape characters, suggested punchlines and even voted on titles. Hearing them laugh or connect with a story I’ve written is the most rewarding part of the journey. Though they do have strong opinions on sequels and spin-offs; I have just finished a Christmas story, ‘Reuben’s Hunt for Christmas’, and they had lots of feedback on it for me”.

Resilience and determination are traits that Julie believes are important for everybody.

“Writing is a heart-led pursuit, but it also asks for a thick skin and a good dose of grit. I’m currently self-publishing, and it’s one of the most rewarding and relentless paths I’ve ever taken. There have been so many moments where I’ve had to pick myself up, dust myself off and carry on—again and again.

“Whether you’re chasing an agent or carving out a space on your own, it’s a long game filled with effort, hope and persistence. And there’s a moral in that for all of us. Life is fleeting and we owe it to ourselves to do the things that makes our hearts sing.

“My biggest advice to would-be writers or really any creatives: don’t wait for perfect conditions or permission. Start where you are, write what moves you, and keep showing up—even on the tough days. Resilience is everything. Every setback teaches you something, every ‘no’ gets you closer to the ‘yes’. And your story—your voice—is worth it. Get yourself into a good writer’s group so that you can receive constructive feedback on your books.

“Be focused, be brave and keep going”.

‘Reubens Hunt For A Home’ and ‘The Coolest Pet’ are also available in other bookshops around the country, including The Bookworm and Eason’s in Thurles, and The Book Centre and Khans Bookshop in Kilkenny.