11-year-old Conn is always in trouble. His enthusiasm, overactive imagination and boundless energy seem to land him on the wrong side of his mum – and his school principal, Mr Cross.
When Conn is banned from performing in the school talent show, he decides to take part anyway. However, his daring and dangerous performance doesn’t quite go to plan, almost causing serious injuries and definitely causing pandemonium.
Immediately sent home, Conn spends the afternoon at UCD’s National Folklore Collection, where his Aunt Doireann works. Despite being told not to touch anything, when he sees the skull of the ancient Irish legendary figure the Abhartach, Conn just can’t help himself. Unleashing an evil that quickly gets out of control, can Conn stop the Abhartach before it’s too late?
Written in short, snappy chapters, Conn of the Dead is a fast-paced, engaging read, combining Irish mythology with modern times. Conn is appealing and relatable, so young readers will easily connect with him and enjoy his adventures. Conn of the Dead is a refreshing page-turner that delves into Ireland’s mythological past. And the brilliant news is that this is just the first in a series of Tales of Darkisle – so there are more ghoulish adventures to look forward to!
Conn of the Dead is published by Gill Publishing (2025)