Thurles author launches two children's books 'inspired by the beauty of rural Irish life'

Local author and former Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles student Julie Kennedy Fogarty is celebrating the release of her first two children’s picture books; ‘Reuben’s Hunt for a Home’ and ‘The Coolest Pet’.

Julie is a picture book writer with a passion for creating stories full of humor, heart, and unforgettable characters.

In 2024, three of her picture books were longlisted in prestigious UK competitions.

With a PhD in economics and over 15 years of experience in industry and academia, Julie has taken a creative leap into the world of children’s literature.

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These new books, inspired by the beauty of rural Irish life and the joy of storytelling, are already delighting young readers across the country.

In ‘Reuben’s Hunt for a Home’, readers follow a plucky little frog named Reuben on his eventful journey through the countryside as he searches for a new place to live after his beloved bog disappears.

The story blends environmental themes with a heartwarming message of friendship and perseverance.

Julie’s second book, ‘The Coolest Pet’, captures the fun and reality of choosing a pet through the eyes of a child. Imaginative and funny, it gently encourages young readers to think about responsibility, empathy, and family life.

“I wrote these stories out of the joy of reading with my own children and the magic of living in the Irish countryside,” said Julie.

“It’s a dream come true to share them with other families.”

Julie Kennedy Fogarty, lives in rural Tipperary with her husband James and their four young children. Her brave move from a career in Finance to becoming a children’s author was inspired by a deep love of language, creativity, and the stories she shared at home with her own children.

Both ‘Reuben’s Hunt for a Home’ and ‘The Coolest Pet’ are available through Julie’s website at juliekennedyfogarty.com, as well as Eason’s in Thurles, Bookworm in Thurles, The Winding Stair in Dublin, and a whole host of libraries across the country.

Fans of Julie’s work will not have to wait too long for another instalment in her children’s book range, ‘Mia and the Midnight Quest’ is labelled as ‘coming soon’ on her website.

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