This past week, I had the joy of joining fellow book lovers at the 2025 Berlin International Literature Festival. The energy was amazing and I met so many inspiring people — from dedicated translators, organisers, and volunteers to brilliant moderators, actors, and, of course, the incredible young readers!
I did all my talks and workshop events with my baby in tow! At just two months old, my little one became one of the youngest attendees, and I’m so grateful to the festival for being so family-friendly and supportive. (It even had a dedicated baby event!)
Signing copies of ‘Orla und die Wilde Jagd’
I took part in two Q&A panel events
Over two days, I spoke on panel conversations exploring Irish mythology, the power of storytelling, and the challenge of grief. (In ORLA AND THE WILD HUNT, Orla navigates her grief while encountering figures from Irish myth.) I explained that the book was inspired by my own Granny Ireland, who sadly passed away, and it was moving to hear young people in the audience share their own stories of losing grandparents. At one point, when one of the moderators asked them to hum if they’d ever felt the weight of depression, the auditorium filled with sound. It was a heartbreaking reminder that young people increasingly face tricky realities just as much as adults do, and are not protected from these, so it’s important it is to reflect them in stories.
It was great to meet so many amazing young readers!
Afterwards, I signed books, posters — even one reader’s arm! — and was touched to be told by a few that I’m their favourite author. Another highlight came when we counted over 30 languages spoken in the room, from Swahili to sign language — a beautiful reminder of global community and connection.
In the afternoons, I joined workshops where young people shared theatre pieces, short films, comics, and even hand-stitched pookas inspired by my book. Their creativity was fantastic, and seeing the impact of arts programmes felt especially vital at a time of shrinking funding everywhere.
My fantastic volunteer guide for the festival
Events like this remind me why I write and of how stories bring people together. Thank you to the Berlin International Literature Festival team, volunteers, and every reader who joined — you made last week unforgettable and I have been smiling ever since.
The handmade pookas from one of the workshops