Available Now: The Children of L.I.R.
"The Children of L.I.R." is now available. It's a captivating all-ages graphic novella set during World War II. The story follows young Jenny Hennessy, who is sent to live with her grandparents in neutral Ireland after her parents are killed in the Blitz.
Unwelcome due to her English background and artistic aspirations, she faces bullying from local kids. Jenny encounters a hermit named Leary and his unique family of animal friends. Together, they navigate the challenges of their pasts and the present, forming an unlikely but strong friendship. The story is deeply rooted in Irish culture, drawing inspiration from the myth of the Children of Lir, and explores themes of family, friendship, loyalty, and humanity.
The book is suitable for readers aged eight to eighty and beyond. It can be enjoyed on different levels: older children can discover the past, while parents and guardians can share it with children. It's also appealing to comic book and history fans.
"The Children Of L.I.R." proudly showcases its shades of Green, White, and Orange, offering an entertaining introduction to the historical complexities of both sides of the island of Ireland and its relationship with Britain, Europe, and the wider world.
The book presents these perspectives through the eyes of ordinary people living their lives rather than through the lens of politicians.
"The Children of L.I.R." is a heartwarming story about hope, dreams, and reconciliation. It features a loose illustrative art style with broad ink brush strokes over semi-opaque watercolour tones. This artistic approach aims to give the book a vintage feel with a modern touch, appealing to fans of graphic novels and readers of children's books, much like those by Raymond Briggs.
You can grab yourself a copy over at Sub City Comics for just £13.00.
About the Creators
The story of "The Children of L.I.R." is brought to life by the talented Paul J. Bolger and Richmond Clements. Paul J. Bolger, an acclaimed writer, illustrator, animator, film director, and singer-songwriter from Waterford, Ireland, has an impressive portfolio that includes work on films like "The Land Before Time" and "Shaun The Sheep: Movie". His graphic novel "Hound", co-written with Barry Devlin, was published by Dark Horse Comics in 2022.
Richmond Clements, originally from Northern Ireland and now residing in Inverness, Scotland, is a prolific writer and editor. He has published numerous short stories, comic strips, and graphic novels, including "Ketsuki" and "Pirates of the Lost World". Together, they weave a tale of magic, friendship, and history that resonates with readers of all ages.