Timmy Waddle, lost goose, in Woodbine Books

Maria Brosnan, formerly of Ballymore Eustace, has written this adorable book for children, Timmy Waddle,  writes Rose Barrett O’Donoghue. Many Kilcullen readers may well remember Maria as a great badminton player in her day.

Maria grew up on Barrack Street, and her parents once had a shop and stationery goods where Monica and Tomás Brosnan now live. Maria is now Sr Maria Thérèse Brosnan, a member of the Cistercian Community of nuns at St Mary's Abbey, Glencairn.

The memory of the call of the wild greylag geese as they flew over Poulaphouca Lake near where Maria previously lived was the inspiration for Timmy Waddle. It's a delightful book, the story is enchanting.

Poor Timmy Goose gets left behind as his family and flock leave Ireland for Iceland. The poor little mite lands in unknown territory, and ends up in Ballymore. There are clearly memories of Maria's from her childhood here — her father as I recall was an avid beekeeper and this is reflected within the book. 

There are also divine illustrations from Michele Lenehan Scott, scenes of the lakes and Kildare-Wicklow landscapes, Woulfe's Cottage on Blessed Oliver Road, and the iconic Weaver's Row, the Old Factory, etc.

Timmy wanders aimlessly about, until he finds safe shelter with a kindly family. He is loved, he is safe, but could there be love for Timmy and what happens when he hears the call of the wild the following year?

For €15, it's superb value, a beautiful read and as I've said already, delightful illustrations by the very talented Michele from Hollywood. The book is now available in Woodbine Books, Kilcullen; Fogarty's and Enda's in Ballymore Eustace; and Hollywood Flowers in Hollywood.

Two very talented ladies — any profits made will go to the abbey.

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