Conor's book explores a mythical hidden world

Conor Forrest from Crookstown grew up fascinated by mythology and hidden worlds, writes Brian Byrne. His debut novel, Heroes of Light and Shadow, incorporates those interests and launches at Athy Library on 3 March with guest speaker John MacKenna. 

The book explores a hidden world in modern Ireland uncovered by the protagonist, 12-year-old Oisin Ryan. The inhabitants are the Fomorians, a supernatural race from Irish mythology, sworn enemies of the Tuatha Dé Danann, the mythical first settlers of Ireland. Oisin becomes entangled in the conflicts of their world, and discovers he has real family connections to it.

Conor, formerly a reporter for the Kildare Nationalist for six years and now working in the public service, had originally started on a novel for adults about a hidden world, but it wasn’t working out. “It just didn't feel right. It didn't click. Then I randomly came across a Wikipedia article about the Tuatha Dé Danann, and realised there was the potential for a children's book for 10+. So I took some elements of my original story and reimagined the entire project."

The process involved multiple drafts over several years, during which he delved deeper into Irish mythology. "I found fantastic characters and more information that I could weave into my original story. Then I joined the Ink Tank creative writing group in Newbridge, where I received great feedback from other writers. From that, I was able to tighten and finish the book."

In late 2024, Conor submitted his book to O’Brien Press, which accepted it and assigned an editor. He was surprised by the few editorial changes, mostly small tweaks and line edits. “They were really brilliant to work with, and very collaborative, walking me through the entire process, consulting me on the book's cover and other details."

Conor says he always had three goals if he ever published a book: that it would be launched at Athy Library, that he would try to have the internationally respected local author John MacKenna introduce it, and that a local bookshop would handle the sales at the launch. "I've got all those three in place," he says of the upcoming event. "My bookshop choice is Woodbine Books in Kilcullen, they're fantastic — I don't think I've ever gone there without leaving with at least three books."

Following the successful publication of Heroes of Light and Shadow, Conor has developed further ideas for books inspired by the extensive world of Irish mythology.  “There's plenty of inspiration there. And fingers crossed, there’ll be another one.”

Heroes of Light and Shadow will be launched on Tuesday, 3 March at 6pm in Athy Library. All are welcome.

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