PICTURES: County Limerick students showcase creativity in new picture book

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A NEWLY-published picture book created by third and fourth class pupils from St Senan's National School, Foynes, has been developed through a collaborative, creative project led by visual artist, author, and educator Celina Buckley.

The book features braille writing by Christopher, one of the students, making the story accessible and inclusive.

The project was made possible through the support of Julie McLoughlin, Executive Librarian, as part of the Creative Communities Creative Ireland Programme, delivered by Limerick Arts Office, Limerick City and County Council.

The initiative places children at the centre of the creative process, empowering them as authors, storytellers, and illustrators.
Over a series of workshops in November 2025, students worked together to develop an original picture book story—from imaginative world-building and character creation to illustration and narrative structure.

The resulting book, Mouse House, tells the tale of a mouse whose cheese cottage is accidentally turned into fondue by a hungry dragon, leading to an unexpected friendship and a joyful new home beside Nut Forest.

“Every child contributed something unique—a drawing, a line of text, a creative idea that helped shape the story,” said Ms Buckley. “They explored big ideas through humour and imagination. Mouse House is a wonderful example of what can happen when children are trusted as creative thinkers.”

The story reflects the children's playful imagination, emotional insight, and thoughtful understanding of loss, friendship, and forgiveness. The official launch of Mouse House took place on Tuesday in Foynes Library.

The launch celebrated the students' achievements alongside their families, teachers, and members of the local community.

Copies of the book will be shared with the school and library. Special thanks were extended to teachers Gill O'Grady, special needs assistants Lee O'Donnell and Deirdre Mulcahy, and principal Thomas Lyng at St Senan's NS for their enthusiasm and support throughout the project. Gratitude was also expressed to the local library team, especially Catherine Griffin, and to Julie McLoughlin, “whose invaluable behind-the-scenes coordination and support made this project possible”.

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