Researching and Writing Irish History Books for Young Readers
To understand the present, we must know the story of our past. History provides us with the opportunity to learn about what and who went before us and why we live in the world we live in today. It enables us to celebrate successes and learn from the failures of bygone days.
In my previous life as a librarian one aspect of the job niggled me-the dearth of Irish history books for young readers! As I discovered new people and subjects to read about, I noticed that there was no equivalent for young readers.
Why must eager, inquisitive minds wait for their adult library cards to read about important Irish people and events?
Since 2016 this has been my main motivation for researching and writing incredible Irish history for young readers.
Firstly, I identify a topic with no previous junior book written about it. I want this introduction to a new subject to be a positive one that ignites a child’s curiosity,
To date my five titles, have all had a centenary connection. They include stories from World War 1, the War of Independence, the Suffragette Movement and prison life. Thankfully, Irish History in all its forms is on the primary school curriculum, so my books are educational and recreational and offer readers a double reward.
Research-examining the evidence
I begin my research by checking the public library catalogue via my member App to see what adult books are available. Then I reserve them for collection at my local library.
While I’m waiting for my requested books to arrive, I go online and scan the following reputable websites: www.dib.ie Dictionary of Irish Biography, census.nationalarchives.ie 1901 and 1911 Census records. www.irishgenealogy.ie Birth, death, and marriage certificates, https://buildingsofireland.ie Architectural heritage, www.logainm.ie Placenames Database and http://www.flickr.com Photos from the National Library of Ireland archive.
Next, I visit places linked to my topic, e.g. a church, a school, a graveyard, or monument. If possible, I interview descendants.
Once the library books arrive, I read the relevant chapters and make notes on items for inclusion in chronological order. Then I outline the headings.
Finally, I make an appointment to visit the county archives. This is a treasure trove that gives me easy access to various records, newspapers, and photographs.
Write-from first to final draft
The moment arrives-I type the first word on the blank page.
From now on I will adhere to a strict writing deadline.
Chapter by chapter I consider constructive criticism at my weekly writing group. Once the first draft is complete, I send it off to the editor.
After editing, it is time to design the book cover. The publisher selects an illustrator or a graphic designer for this. Following a short break, it is time to repeat the process.
History is a great subject for all children. There are people and places of interest all around us. By exploring local history first, we often find a link to national and international events.
As we equip our young readers with basic research and IT skills, we enable them to become historians within their own families and communities.
There are budding historians in every school. It is our responsibility to nurture these custodians of the future.
Carmel Kelly is an author of nine books and a former librarian. Carmel is a Heritage in Schools Specialist and is available for school visits through the Heritage in Schools Scheme run by the Heritage Council. For more information, visit heritageinschools.ie