Magical response to Longford book launch

It was a busy weekend for first time author Tiernan Dolan as he launched his book, “Sips, the Magic Pony” on Saturday.

The book was launched by well known Longford author John Connell in the Longford Library. Tiernan was delighted with the turnout: “Saturday's book launch of 'Sips the Magic Pony' in the Longford Library was an outstanding success. It was standing room only with a much larger crowd than anticipated in attendance.”

While the adults listened to Mr Connell heap praise on the book, the children were creating a montage based on 'Sips the Magic Pony'. The montage was presented to the first time author, much to his surprise and delight.

The story behind this children's book is fascinating in its own right. Sips, is a Connemara pony gifted to Tiernan's niece by a very generous neighbour. A few years ago, his niece was a patient in Great Ormond Street hospital, London.

So to cheer her up, Sips used to write regular letters to her recounting the magical world of animals and nature in the kingdom of Crieve.

There was a multicultural element to the launch: “There was a lovely Ukrainian link to the afternoon's event - children sang in their native language and there was a video link with the Odessa based young illustrator, Anastasia Soliar,” Tiernan told the Leader. The author was pleased with the public response: “The book almost sold out immediately which was a great endorsement and already there are plans for a follow up.“Longford seems to be riding the crest of a creative wave currently with the amazing rise in published authors.

Next up will be John Connell himself who is planning a launch of his latest work in April,” he said.Tiernan concluded by thanking all who assisted with the launch: “Full credit to the staff in the Longford Library Services for helping to spread more creative magic last Saturday.”