Free event but booking required: book online at Laois Libraries events, phone Portlaoise Library on 057 8622333 or email portlaoiselibrary@laoiscoco.ie
Join bestselling authors Sarah Breen and Emer McLysaght for an entertaining conversation about their books, writing and the stories behind their hugely successful Aisling series. They'll chat with Sinéad Cuddihy about their latest novel Our Deadly Summer, friendship, nostalgia, writing together and what inspires their much-loved characters. Expect a lively conversation and a fascinating insight into the writing partnership behind some of Ireland's most popular novels.
With more than ten years' experience in broadcasting and journalism, Co. Kildare native Emer McLysaght wasn't sure if she'd ever get around to writing a book. However, taking inspiration from their own lives, Emer and her longtime friend, Sarah Breen co-authored the bestselling novel Oh My God, What A Complete Aisling which became a five-book series. The duo's most recent project is Our Deadly Summer - a darkly funny crime caper that's dripping in noughties nostalgia.
Born and raised in the village of Borris, Co. Carlow, Sarah Breen began her career in journalism at KISS magazine. Since then, her writing has appeared in numerous Irish print publications, as well as online. She currently lives in Dublin with her husband and two daughters.
Sinéad is the founder of Tired Mammy Book Club, an Instagram-based book club and online community of almost 15,000 readers. She hosts monthly book club meetings, as well as in-person meet-ups throughout the year. She hosted the Pfizer Book Club, as part of the VHI Wellness Programme, and hosts the LinkedIn Dublin Book Club. Sinéad has also hosted the Festival Book Club at the Ennis Book Club Festival.
Sinéad has interviewed a wide range of authors both online and at live events, including Andrea Mara, Jamie O'Connell, Catherine Ryan Howard, Sophie White, Martina Devlin, Vicki Notaro and Tanya Sweeney. A prominent advocate for books and reading, Sinéad has appeared at literary festivals, such as the Red Line Festival and the Rush Festival of Writing, on leading podcasts, and across Irish media, including the Irish Independent and The Claire Byrne Show. Alongside her role as a National Public Libraries Open Day ambassador, she has developed a vibrant online community of readers.
For more information on the Leaves Festival and the Laois Arts Programme contact The Arts Office
tel.: 057 866 4033/13
email: artsoff@laoiscoco.ie
For events at Dunamaise Arts Centre and St. Peter's Church of Ireland book online or call 057 866 3355.
For events at Laois Libraries, contact the Library branch. Contact details are on each event listing.