Storyshaped

Gráinne O'Brien is no stranger to anyone on the Irish book scene! A bookseller, a creative writing coach, and a published author, she released her debut YA novel in April 2025 to instant acclaim. We were delighted that she made time in a very busy day - with thanks to The Campus Bookshop in UCD, Sinéad's old workplace, for giving her somewhere to set up her computer so she could talk to us! - and we had a brilliant natter about stories, books, and the importance of listening to the voices in your head. (If you know, you know!)Find Gráinne online HEREFind Rontu, Gráinne's creative writing coaching service, HEREFind Kenny's Bookshop, where Gráinne is Children's Buyer, HEREBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Gráinne's own:A Limerick FairytaleSoloAnd the stories which shaped her include:Big Magic, by Elizabeth GilbertThese Are the Words, by Nikita GillThe work of Sarah CrossanThe life and work of Mary O'Shea, elementary school librarian in Palo Alto, CARamona Quimby, by Beverly ClearyThe Baby-sitters' Club, by Ann M. MartinWayside School Gets a Little Stranger, by Louis SacharHoles, by Louis SacharThe Magician of Tiger Castle, by Louis SacharThe Goosebumps books, by RL StineThe work of Maeve BinchyFlowers in the Attic, by Virginia AndrewsThe work of Marian KeyesJAWS, by Peter BenchleyI Capture the Castle, by Dodie SmithThe work of Jessica TownsendThe Murder Most Unladylike series, by Robin StevensThe Song of the Lioness, by Tamora PierceNina Peanut Is Amazing and Nina Peanut, Mega Mystery Solver, by Sarah BowiePablo and Splash, by Sheena DempseyNotes from a Coma, by Mike McCormackThe work of Sarah Moore FitzgeraldThe work of Donal RyanThe work of Joseph O'ConnorThe Book of Secrets, by Alex DunneUnder the Hawthorn Tree (trilogy), by Marita Conlon-McKennaCreative Writing for Dummies, by Maggie HamandAtmosphere, by Taylor Jenkins ReidOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eve Wersocki Morris has been called 'the best-kept secret in children's publishing' by no less than Lemony Snicket himself, so who are we to argue! We were delighted to get a window into her delightfully noirish Storyshaped life. Come with us as we discover the stories - movies, books, the lot! - which have shaped her and her work, right from her first novel (written when she was thirteen!) to the present day.Find Eve online at her websiteBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Eve's own:The Bird SingersThe Wildstorm CurseClem Fatale Has Been BetrayedAnd the stories which have shaped her include:Movies:The Maltese FalconThe 39 StepsStrangers on a TrainThe Big SleepStage FrightDial M For MurderDouble IndemnitySome Like It HotSunset BoulevardThe LadykillersThe Wrong Arm of the LawDead Men Don't Wear PlaidNight Train to MunichCastle in the Air and the Chrestomanci books, by Diana Wynne JonesThe Just William Stories, by Richmal Crompton, read by Martin JarvisThe Chronicles of Narnia, by CS LewisThe Roman Mysteries, by Caroline LawrenceLizzie Zipmouth, by Jacqueline WilsonFantastic Mr Fox, by Roald DahlThe Worst Witch, by Jill MurphyNoughts and Crosses, by Malorie BlackmanAnna Karenina, by TolstoyMadame Bovary, by Gustave FlaubertNorthanger Abbey, by Jane AustenOn Beauty, by Zadie SmithHeartburn, by Nora EphronThe Handmaid's Tale, by Margaret AtwoodRebecca, by Daphne du MaurierAmerican Wife, by Curtis SittenfeldThe Poetry Pharmacy Comfort Poems CollectionOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We were thrilled to get the chance to sit down with Peter Donnelly, one of Ireland's foremost illustrators and picturebook makers, to discuss life, work, inspiration, and everything in between! Listen in for a chance to hear about how Peter was inspired by a mountain, and how NOT getting into art college was the best thing that ever happened to him. If you've ever wondered: how did Peter Donnelly come up with the brilliant idea to write a picturebook about the President of Ireland, then you've found your happy place. Come and join us as we winkle out Peter Donnelly's Storyshaped secrets!Books mentioned in this week's episode include Peter's own:The President's GlassesThe President's CatThe President's DogThe President's SurpriseThe Dead ZooThe Great DiscoveryUp on the MountainLittle WolfAnd the stories that shaped him include:The Cat in the Hat, by Dr SeussThe Selfish Giant, by Oscar Wilde, illustrated by Lisbeth ZwergerThe Selfish Giant, by Oscar Wilde, illustrated by PJ LynchThe work of PJ LynchMonty Python, British TV comedyThe Prince of Egypt, animated movie on which Peter workedAnastasia, animated movie on which Peter workedTilly and Friends, by Polly DunbarThis is Ireland, by Miroslav SacekThe work of Mac BarnettThe work of Jon KlassenThe Fairy Isle, by Síne Quinn, illustrated by Dermot FlynnBeanie the Bansheenie, by Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Steve McCarthyOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready to pull on your nonsense shoes and go dancing on the kooky side of the street as we chat to the brilliant Nathanael (Nate) Lessore, author of the hilarious Steady for This and King of Nothing for teen readers, and Solving Crimes is NOT My Superpower, for slightly younger readers. This conversation will answer all the questions you have about life, including the most important one: how DO you give CPR to a mosquito? I mean, you can't deny it's something we've all wondered about...Find Nate online HEREBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Nate's own:Steady for ThisKing of NothingSolving Crimes is NOT My Superpower, illustrated by Simran Diamond SinghAnd the stories which have shaped him include:Avocado Baby, by John BurninghamBurglar Bill, by Janet and Allan AhlbergDouble Act, by Jacqueline WilsonThe Lottie Project, by Jacqueline WilsonTracey Beaker (TV series), original novels by Jacqueline WilsonVicky Angel, by Jacqueline WilsonScribble Boy, by Philip RidleyHarry Potter, by JK RowlingNoughts and Crosses, by Malorie BlackmanKnife Edge, by Malorie BlackmanThe work of Flannery O'ConnorThe Chronicles of Narnia, by CS LewisGlasgow Boys, by Margaret McDonaldTV Shows:ScrubsFriendsBoondocksFresh Prince of Bel-AirFamily GuySpiderman (comic books)The work of Spike MilliganConn of the Dead, by Dave RuddenThe Door of No Return, by Kwame AlexanderHappy Head, by Josh SilverOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This Storyshaped chat is a feast for the soul. We were delighted to get a chance to sit down with Kel Menton, debut author, and talk to them all about their brilliant first novel, A Fix of Light, and the stories that have shaped not only the book, but Kel themself. We went on a fantastic trip from local ghost-lore to titans of the fantasy genre all the way to the Prose Edda and Poetic Edda - because, of course you'd end up there! Come on and join us for a fantastic meander through a marvellously Storyshaped life.Find Kel on their newsletter, MarginaliaBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Kel's own:A Fix of LightAnd the stories which have shaped them include:The Sleeping Giant, by Marie-Louise FitzpatrickCailín an Bhúrna/Colleen of the Barley, a local ghost storyThe Raven Boys, by Maggie StiefvaterShiver, by Maggie StiefvaterThe Demon's Lexicon, by Sarah Rees BrennanThe Inkheart trilogy, by Cornelia FunkeReckless, by Cornelia FunkeWintersmith, by Terry PratchettShadow and Bone, by Leigh BardugoSix of Crows, by Leigh BardugoThe work of John GreenThe Ruby Redfort books, by Lauren ChildBeowulf, the Old English epic (HWAET!)Judith and Holofernes, the Old English poemThe Poetic EddaThe Prose Edda, compiled by Snorri SturlusonSummer Sons, by Lee MandeloAll For the Game, by Nora SakavicDon't Let the Forest In, by CG DrewsThe Three Body Problem, by Cixin LiuThe work of NK JemisinThe work of Ursula le GuinThe work of RF KuangSentimental Garbage podcast - The Phantom of the Opera with Rebecca KuangOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We were privileged today to speak to the authors of the brilliant essay anthology, Beyond the Secret Garden, which is a vital critique of the current state of children's literature and its inclusivity problem. Dr Chetty and Prof Sands-O'Connor have written for many years over at Books for Keeps around these vital issues, and today they bring us through the importance of decolonising the children's literature canon - while also giving us an insight into their own Storyshaped lives, and what stories led them to the work they do today.You can purchase your copy of Beyond the Secret Garden hereStories mentioned in this week's episode include:The Good Immigrant, ed. Nikesh ShuklaSesame StreetRoy of the Rovers football comicThe work of JD Salinger and Jack KerouacDr Dolittle, by Hugh LoftingThe Wizard of Oz (movie version)Mythologies, by Roland BarthesElmer, by David McKeeTusk Tusk, by David McKeeThe Grapes of Wrath, by John SteinbeckJane Eyre, by Charlotte BronteWuthering Heights, by Emily BronteThe work of Charles DickensLittle Women, by Louisa May AlcottSight and Sound magazineThe Buddha of Suburbia, by Hanif KureishiThe Chronicles of Narnia, by CS LewisOliver Twist, by Charles DickensRobinson Crusoe, by Daniel DefoeSing, Unburied, Sing, by Jesmyn WardFreud in Oz, by Kenneth KiddJames, by Percival EverettOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We don't have *much* in common with the Terminator around here, it must be said, but one of the things we do share is this: we come back. So, here we are! This is a special LIVE episode, recorded in May 2025 at the brilliant International Literature Festival Dublin in front of an audience of Kieran Larwood fans (and, perhaps, one or two who were there to see us), and we had the most fun. We chatted fantasy, Tolkien, the powers of maps as ways into story, 90s music, and loads more.Our very special thanks to the team at International Literature Festival Dublin for facilitating this dream come true for us - it has long been our ambition to record a live episode, and we were delighted to get the chance to do just that as part of this fantastic festival, which happens in Dublin in May every year. We hope the recording gives you a flavour of how much we enjoyed talking to Kieran and getting an insight into his very special Storyshaped life.PLEASE NOTE: The audio didn't pick up the audience, so during question time, the questions we are responding to are as follows:What children's book that you read as an adult do you wish you'd read as a child?Will we find out more about the Ancients?Books mentioned in this week's episode include:The work of Enid BlytonThe work of JRR TolkienA Wizard of Earthsea, by Ursula le GuinThe Moomins, by Tove JanssonThe Hounds of the Morrigan, by Pat O'SheaThe World Between the Rain, by Susan CahillFighting Fantasy book series, created by Steve Jackson and Ian LivingstoneStone of Farewell, by Tad WilliamsThe work of Robin HobbMort, by Terry PratchettThe work of Terry Pratchett, especially the Tiffany Aching seriesGood Omens, by Terry Pratchett and Neil GaimanLords and Ladies, by Terry PratchettWatership Down, by Richard AdamsNeuromancer, by William GibsonEscape Room: Game Zero, by Christopher EdgeI Am Wolf, by Alastair ChisholmThe Bone Ships, by RJ BarkerOctober, October, by Katya BalenThe Storm and the Sea Hawk, by Kiran Millwood HargraveI Am Raven, by Alastair ChisholmA Fix of Light, by Kel MentonOn Midnight Beach, by Marie Louise FitzpatrickThe work of Jamie Littler, esp. FrostheartThe music of Pearl Jam and Nirvana and Soundgarden Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special mini-sode of Storyshaped, I (Sinéad) sat down with Ruth Ennis (writer, book-expert, book reviewer, general Queen of Irish children's and YA literature and legend in her own lifetime) to discuss something close to both our hearts: the situation in Palestine.Nobody will be unaware of the reality; the situation in Palestine, and in particular in Gaza, has been described as 'genocide' by bodies such as Médecins sans Frontieres, the United Nations, and Amnesty International. Innocent civilians have been mercilessly killed, day and night, for almost the past two years, and the onslaught has had a particularly horrific impact on Palestinian children.As authors for children and young people, Ruth and I couldn't stand by and do nothing. So, we set up the Irish KidLit for Palestine Fundraiser, which runs between August 4th and 17th, 2025. Our chosen charity is Medical Aid for Palestinians, who can be found HEREAnd the link to the Irish KidLit for Palestine Fundraiser, where you can help us to raise money AND get yourself some snazzy kidlit-related goodies, is HERE Our sincere thanks to the 30+ authors, illustrators, artists and creatives who made this Fundraiser possible by donating their work and their time. Míle buíochas! Stay tuned for more Storyshaped in the autumn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, if we sound a bit giddy on this week's episode, that's because we were! Head-whirlingly, we got to speak to Patrice Actual Lawrence, who is one of the most accomplished authors around. Patrice has written for all age groups, from picturebooks right up to YA (with equal aplomb), and her journey to creating this masterful body of work is an interesting one. Come with us as she takes us through her Storyshaped life.Books mentioned in this week's episode include Patrice's own:OrangeboyIndigo DonutEight Pieces of SilvaNeedleRose, InterruptedIs That Your Mama? illustrated by Diane EwenElemental DetectivesPeople Like StarsAnd the stories which shaped her include:Pig-Heart Boy, by Malorie BlackmanMalory Towers, by Enid Blyton (and Patrice's own New Class At Malory Towers)Rainbow Magic, by 'Daisy Meadows'The work of John AgardThe work of Grace NicolsThe work of Julia DonaldsonThe work of Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Stephen KingThe work of Jenny Downham, especially Before I DieThe story of Jonathan Strong, an enslaved man in 18thC LondonThe Rivers of London (series), by Ben AaronovitchLove in the Time of Cholera, by Gabriel Garcia MarquezDr Dolittle, by Hugh LoftingThe Railway Children, by E NesbitLittle Women, by Louisa May AlcottThe Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson BurnettThe Diddakoi, by Rumer GoddenOur Beautiful Darkness, by Onjaki, ill. Antonio Jorge Goncalves, trans. Lyn Miller-LachmanA Guest in the House, by Emily Carroll100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Cafe, by Julian Sedgwick and Chie KutsuwadaBefore the Coffee Gets Cold, by Toshikazu Kawaguchi - the book Sinéad was trying to recall!Tsunami Girl, by Julian Sedgwick and Chie KutsuwadaThe Pigman, by Paul ZindelRumblefish, by SE HintonThe Body, Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, Misery, Pet Sematary, all by Stephen KingOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we were honoured to speak to an undisputable Queen of Children's Literature - Julie Sykes! Julie is the author of well over a hundred books, many of them co-written with the equally excellent Linda Chapman. Her bestselling series include the Netflix-adapted The Unicorn Academy, but throughout Julie's almost thirty year career she has written for the youngest children right up to teens. Come with us for a brilliant insight into Julie's life, career, work - and just how she keeps her creative flame lit, even after all these years.Find Julie online at her website: www.juliesykes.co.ukFind out more about International Literature Festival Dublin at www.ilfdublin.comTickets for the LIVE Storyshaped event are available here: LIVE STORYSHAPED PODCAST EVENTTickets for Susan's solo event are available here: DISCOVER THE MAGICAL WORLD BETWEEN THE RAINTickets for Sinéad's solo event are available here: THE SUN, THE MOON, AND TWO STARSBooks mentioned in this week's episode include some of Julie's own:The Unicorn Academy series (co-written with Linda Chapman; illustrated by Lucy Truman)The Mermaid Academy series (co-written with Linda Chapman; illustrated by Lucy Truman)The Woodland Magic series (illustrated by Katy Riddell)The Perfect Puppies seriesThe Princess Ponies seriesAnd the stories that shaped her include:The work of Enid BlytonSwallows and Amazons, by Arthur RansomeThe Punchbowl series, by Monica EdwardsThe Romney Marsh series, by Monica EdwardsCarbonel: The King of the Cats, by Barbara SleighDiary of an Accidental Witch, by Honor and Perdita CargillThe Weirdstone of Brisingamen, by Alan GarnerThe Hobbit, by JRR TolkienGoodnight Mister Tom, by Michelle MagorianThe Great Elephant Chase, by Gillian CrossThe work of Dominique ValenteGreenwild: The World Behind the Door, by Pari ThompsonThe Hedgewitch series, by Skye McKennaThe Wycherleys, by Annaliese AveryThe work of Harriet Muncasteresp. Diary of Whisker Wildflower, by Harriet MuncasterThe work of Hilary McKayesp. Rosa by Starlight, Saffy's Angel, and Indigo Star (all by Hilary McKay)Our podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We had a totally magical walk through picturebook author Mariesa Dulak's Storyshaped life on the podcast today, which took us all the way from Barbados to Harrogate, and plenty of other places besides! From nursery rhymes to Stephen King, and William Blake to Barbara Throws a Wobbler, join us as we follow Mariesa through the fantastic collection of tales (both written and spoken) that have shaped her work and made her the person she is today. Let's go!Find Mariesa online at her website: www.mariesadulak.comBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Mariesa's own:There's a Tiger on the Train (ill. Rebecca Cobb)The Silver Shadow (ill. Alea Marley)And the stories which shaped her include:Nursery rhymes and songs told and sung to her by her parentsThe fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers GrimmOne Thousand and One Nights/Arabian Nights, folktales from the Islamic Golden AgeThe Flower Fairies, by Cicely Mary BarkerThe work of Alison UttleyWinnie the Pooh: Changing Guard at Buckingham Palace, by AA Milne and EH ShepardThe work of Dr SeussThe Chronicles of Narnia, by CS LewisThe Worst Witch, by Jill MurphyThe work of Enid BlytonFungus the Bogeyman, by Raymond BriggsThe Tinderbox (fairytale)The work of Roald DahlThe work of Stephen KingBlubber, by Judy BlumeForever, by Judy BlumeThe work of John AgardThe work of Benjamin ZephaniahThe work of Malorie BlackmanLittle Soldier, by Bernard AshleyFlower Block, by Lanisha Butterfield (illustrated by Hoang Giang)Out of the Blue, by Robert Tregoning (illustrated by Stef Murphy)Songs of Innocence and Experience, by William BlakeTyger, by SF SaidSkellig, by David AlmondNot Now, Bernard, by David McKeeWhere the Wild Things Are, by Maurice SendakBarbara Throws a Wobbler, by Nadia ShireenThe work of Julia DonaldsonThe work of Janet and Allan AhlbergThe Cafe at the End of the Woods, by Mikey PleaseThe Full Stop that Got Away, by Laura Baker (illustrated by Nathan Reed)Butter, by Asako YuzukiThe Island of Brilliant podcast, hosted by Nadia Shireen and Frank Cottrell-BoyceOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well - whew! Get ready for this week's episode, Storyshapers, because it's a whirlwind of mythology, folklore, history, archaeology and magic, all thanks to the enthralling Ellen Ryan. Ellen is a journalist and author, who likes to spend time visiting archaeological sites, researching the richness of Ireland's folklore, mythology, and history, and creating fantastic, inclusive, immersive, and lovingly constructed tales and retellings of some stories we might *think* we know... Come on a wander through the landscape of old Ireland with Ellen, and find out how she's Storyshaped.Find Ellen online at her agent's website: https://belllomaxmoreton.co.uk/childrens-fiction/ellen-ryanBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Ellen's own:Girls Who Slay Monsters (ill. Shona Shirley MacDonald)Gods Don't Cry (ill. Conor Merriman)And the stories that have shaped her include:Under the Hawthorn Tree, by Marita Conlon-McKennaThe work of Siobhan ParkinsonFlight of the Doves, by Walter MackenThe Milly McCarthy series, by Leona FordeThe Hounds of the Morrigan, by Pat O'SheaThe work of Patricia LynchThe Táin, ed. and modernised by Thomas Kinsella, illustrations by Louis le BrocquyThe Corpus of Electronic Texts (The UCC CELT Project)The Book of the Elders, eds. Ann Dooley and Harry RoweThe work of John Carey, medievalist and language scholaresp. Magic, Metallurgy, and Imagination in Medieval Ireland, by John CareyThe work of Daniel Curley, archaeologist and guide at Rathcroghan Royal Site and Visitor Centre)Ireland's Immortals, by Mark WilliamsThe work of Miranda GreenThe Dictionary of Celtic Myth and Legend, ed. Miranda GreenOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we had the JOY of chatting to the very funny, very talented, very lovely Catherine Wilkins (or you might know her as Catie, if you're a fan of her stand-up comedy). She brought us on a wondrous meander through her Storyshaped life, from the country of Disney to the tales of Mossycoat - and everything in between! Come with us as we wander through the stories that have shaped her life and work, and get ready for a dose of major 80s cartoon nostalgia. 'For the honour of Greyskull... I am She-Ra!'Find Catherine online at her website: www.catherinewilkins.co.ukBooks mentioned in this week's episode include Catherine's own:My Best Friend and Other EnemiesMy Brilliant Life and Other DisastersMy School Musical and Other PunishmentsMy Great Success and Other FailuresWhen Good Geeks Go BadThe Weird Friends Fan ClubYou're Not the Boss of Me!Café ChaosAnd the stories which have shaped her include:She-Ra (80s cartoon and the modern remake)The movies of DisneyThe Mysterious Cities of Gold (cartoon)Ulysses 31 (cartoon)The Twits, by Roald DahlFantastic Mr Fox, by Roald DahlThe Magic Finger, by Roald DahlThe Demon Headmaster, by Gillian CrossThe Worst Witch (series), by Jill MurphyPride and Prejudice, by Jane AustenThe Harry Potter books, by JK RowlingCatwitch, by Lisa Tuttle and Una WoodruffNorse Mythology, particularly a book owned by Catherine's dadCollected Fairy Tales, particularly an edition owned by Catherine's dad, which included the tale MossycoatAnd... The Rabbit That Jumped Too High, by Catherine Wilkins, aged 6! *heart-eye emojis*Our podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've only gone and snagged the fantastic, prolific, and very wonderful Helen Peters for the podcast - and it's her turn in the hotseat today! We were charmed to take a stroll through the Storyshaped life of an author described as 'one of our finest modern children's storytellers' by Waterstones (who, to be fair, know their stuff), and we learned all about how Helen's childhood was shaped as much by the farm she grew up on as it was by the stories she surrounded herself with. These stories not only shaped her, but they shaped her brilliant creative output, too. Come on - pull yer wellies on and let's get going.Books mentioned on this week's episode include Helen's own:Friends and TraitorsAnna at WarEvie's GhostThe Jasmine Green seriesThe Secret Henhouse Theatre trilogyFind Helen at: helenpetersbooks.comAnd the stories that shaped her include:Winnie the Pooh, by A.A. Milne, illustrations by E.H. ShepardThe Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth GrahameTarka the Otter, by Henry WilliamsonThe picturebooks of Molly BrettBrambly Hedge, by Jill BarklemLittle Women, by Louisa May AlcottWhat Katy Did, by Susan CoolidgeHeidi, by Johanna SpyriBallet Shoes, by Noel StreatfeildCurtains Up, by Noel StreatfeildThe Growing Summer, by Noel StreafeildThe Famous Five series, by Enid BlytonThe Secret Seven series, by Enid BlytonThe St Clare's series, by Enid BlytonSix Cousins at Mistletoe Farm, by Enid BlytonThe Railway Children, by E. NesbitThe Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson BurnettThe Casson Family series, by Hilary McKayThe Exiles, by Hilary McKayMillions, by Frank Cottrell-BoyceFramed, by Frank Cottrell-BoyceHoles, by Louis SacharLiar & Spy, by Rebecca SteadThe Diary of a Young Girl, by Anne FrankCue for Treason, by Geoffrey TreaseKing of Shadows, by Susan CooperOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we welcome Alastair Chisholm - yes, only the brilliant, prolific, award-winning, award-nominated picturebook and middle grade author - to the podcast, and we hope you'll join us for the journey! Alastair has written about starships lost in space, about characters who can see back through time, about huge mecha-animals powered by human will, and - best of all - about ninja frogs, and that's just to name some of the books in his incredible back catalogue. Come with us as he takes us through the stories that have shaped him, and which continue to shape his world and his work.Books mentioned in this week's episode include some of Alastair's own:The Dragon Storm series, illustrated by Eric DeschampsThe Consequence GirlOrion LostAdam-2I Am WolfI Am RavenAnd the stories which have shaped him include:The Silmarillion, by JRR TolkienThe Grey King, by Susan CooperThe Weirdstone of Brisingamen, by Alan GarnerCharmed Life, by Diana Wynne JonesHomeward Bounders, by Diana Wynne JonesHowl's Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne JonesArcher's Goon, by Diana Wynne JonesAsterix, by Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo (et al)The Eagle comic, founded by Marcus Morris2000 AD, created by Kelvin Gosnell, Pat Mills, John WagnerThe Chronicles of Narnia, by CS LewisThe work of Nicholas FiskThe work of Jan MarkThe work of Isaac AsimovThe work of Robert HeinleinThe Stainless Steel Rat, by Harry HarrisonThe Best of Harry Harrison - short story anthologyThe Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, the Unbeliever, by Stephen DonaldsonZenith, by Grant Morrison and Steve YeowellThe Old Man and the Sea, by Ernest Hemingway (Alastair's edition has illustrations by CF Tunnicliffe and Raymond Sheppard)The Chrysalids, by John WyndhamThe Day of the Triffids, by John WyndhamThe work of Sir Terry PratchettLegend, by David GemmellMaster and Commander (series), by Patrick O'BrianSword of the Sun, by Sinéad O'HartThe World Between the Rain, by Susan CahillWren, by Lucy HopeA Kind of Spark, by Elle McNicollSticky Pines: The Bigwoof Conspiracy, by Dashe RobertsBird Boy, by Catherine BrutonDungeon Runners, by Kieran Larwood and Joe Todd Stanton The work of Christopher EdgeOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We were beside ourselves with glee this week as we sat for a chat with the brilliant Celine Kiernan, an artist who has been influencing - and Storyshaping - our lives since way before she began writing her brilliant children's books. Celine's career began in the animation industry, where she was part of the team who brought the world such incredible tales as The Land Before Time, All Dogs Go To Heaven, An American Tail, and more - and we got the pleasure of chatting to her about that time in her life, as well as her own work, and the stories which have shaped her incredible literary and artistic output. This one was super-special. Come and join us, won't you? Somewhere out there...Books mentioned in this week's episode include Celine's own:The Moorehawke Trilogy (The Poison Throne, The Crowded Shadows, The Rebel Prince)Into the GreyThe Wild Magic Trilogy (Begone the Raggedy Witches, The Little Grey Girl, The Promise Witch)ResonanceAnd the stories that shaped her include:Twinkle, a periodical comic and annualLittle Grey Men, by BBDown the Bright Stream, by BBThe Yearling, by Marjorie Kinnan RawlingsThe Borrowers, by Mary NortonJudy magazineThe Weirdstone of Brisingamen, by Alan GarnerThe Moon of Gomrath, by Alan GarnerThe Mouse and his Child, by Russell HobanRiddley Walker, by Russell HobanWater Babies, by Charles KingsleySomething Wicked this Way Comes, by Ray BradburyThe Doll House (later, Tottie) by Rumer GoddenNed Kelly and the City of the Bees, by Thomas KenneallyThe work of Raymond ChandlerThe work of John SteinbeckThe work of Charles DickensThe work of Ernest HemingwayThe short stories of Moira McHughBrides of Rollrock Island, by Margo LanaganTender Morsels, by Margo LanaganSavage Her Reply, by Deirdre SullivanTangleweed and Brine, by Deirdre SullivanPiranesi, by Susannah ClarkeJonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, by Susannah ClarkeThe Small Hand: A Ghost Story, by Susan HillOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is one we've been hoping for since the beginning of the podcast! Today, we have the chance to sit down with the inexpressibly brilliant AF (Ashley) Harrold, prolific poet and author, Big Red Button pusher (if you haven't seen his excellent videos about his walks along the Thames, meeting herons and suchlike, you're in for a treat), hilarious performer and public speaker, and overall general Good Egg. We had so much fun chatting stories, books, and creativity with one of the best in the business. Won't you join us? Come along, then!Books mentioned in this week's episode include AF's own:The ImaginaryImagining the ImaginaryThe AfterwardsThe Song From Somewhere ElseThe Worlds We Leave Behind... and countless books of poetry!And the stories which shaped him include:Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice SendakFox Eyes, by Margaret Wise Brown and Garth WilliamsGoodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd (link to the Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen essay)The Hobbit, JRR TolkienDunmousie Monsters, by Robin and Jocelyn WildTin Tin, by HergeThe World of Myth and Legend, by Brenda Ralph Lewis, illustrated by Rob McCaigThe Adventures of Humbert, Simp and Harquin, by John BurninghamPhenomena: A Book of Wonders, by John Mitchell and Robert J RickardGentleman Jim, by Raymond BriggsFungus the Bogeyman, by Raymond BriggsFather Christmas, by Raymond BriggsWhen the Wind Blows, by Raymond BriggsCan't You Sleep, Little Bear? by Barbara Firth and Martin WaddellThe work of Bernard O'Donoghue, including his translations of The Wanderer and The SeafarerRiddley Walker, by Russell HobanThe Mouse and His Child, by Russell Hoban and David SmallA Bargain for Frances, by Russell Hoban and Lillian HobanMonsters, by Russell Hoban and Quentin BlakeM.O.L.E. by Russell Hoban and Jan PienkowskiThe Twenty-Elephant Restaurant, by Russell Hoban and Quentin BlakeTom Tit Moves House, by Molly BrettThe Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman, by Laurence SterneAwful End, by Philip Ardagh and David RobertsI Like This Poem, by Kaye Webb and Antony MaitlandThis Craft of Verse, by Jorge Luis BorgesAbout the House, by WH AudenThe Tale of Beren and Luthien - translated by AF Harrold! The Silmarillion, by JRR TolkienThe Collected Poems of Stevie SmithOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Imagine you found a book that had the answers to LITERALLY EVERYTHING? A book that could help you 'cheat' your way out of all situations, no matter how puke-sastrous they are... Well, this is the reality facing Kamal, the main character in The Cheat Book, written by today's guest - the explosively energetic, fascinatingly interesting, and laugh-a-minute RAMZEE. RAMZEE joins us this week for a chat through his Storyshaped life, and it's a good one. Get rrrrrrrrready!Special thanks to Battersea Library for making RAMZEE's appearance on the podcast possible.Please note: this podcast episode makes very brief reference to suicidal ideation. Please listen with caution. Help is available in the UK: Phone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org In Ireland: Phone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.ieBooks mentioned on this week's episode include RAMZEE's own:The Cheat Book (and sequels!)And the stories which shaped him include:Hound of the Baskervilles, by Arthur Conan DoyleThe Adjustment Bureau, by Philip K. DickRed Shift, by Alan GarnerEverything Everywhere All at Once (dir. Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, released 2022)Hark! A Vagrant, by Kate BeatonDucks: Two Years in the Oil Sands, by Kate BeatonHigh Plains Drifter (dir. Clint Eastwood, released 1973)The work of Dapo AdeolaPlanet Omar, by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya MafaridikHow to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, by Shepherd MeadThe Boy at the Back of the Class, by Onjali RaufThe work of Melinda Gebbie (comic artist)The work of Rod SerlingThe S-Man, by Mark CaineThe Prince, by Niccolo MacchiavelliThe work of Babette ColeTin Tin, by HergéAsterix, by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, et alUnder My Thumb: Songs that Hate Women and the Women Who Love Them, ed. Rhian E Jones and Eli DaviesSandman Mystery Theatre, by Matt Wagner and Stephen T. Seagle, art by Guy Davis, John Watkiss, RG Taylor, Vince Locke, Warren Pleece, Matthew Dow SmithThe Sandman, by Neil Gaiman, art by various artists incl. Sam Kieth and Mike DringenbergThe Turbulent Term of Tyke Tyler, by Gene KempTales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, by Judy BlumeSuperfudge, by Judy BlumeOtherwise Known as Sheila the Great, by Judy BlumeThe stories of Ramona Quimby, by Beverly ClearyThe Chronicles of Narnia, by CS LewisMatilda, by Roald DahlThe Dark is Rising, by Susan CooperThe Weirdstone of Brisingamen, by Alan GarnerElidor, by Alan GarnerThe work of the movie director Roger CorbinJAWS (dir. Steven Spielberg, released 1975)The work of Diana Wynne JonesBlack Hearts in Battersea, by Joan AikenThe Wolves of Willoughby Chase, by Joan AikenBlade Runner (dir. Ridley Scott, released 1982)The Godfather I and II (dir. Francis Ford Coppola, released 1972, 1974)Jurassic Park (dir. Steven Spielberg, released 1993)The work of George Lucas, James Cameron, Steven SpielbergThe Haunting of Hill House, by Shirley JacksonOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We were lucky to get this chance to have a chat on the fly with the super-busy Jennifer Claessen - she was between school visits on the day we spoke to her! Huge thanks to her for making the time to sit down with us. In this week's episode, we take a high-energy whizz through a brilliantly Storyshaped life, so strap in and get ready. This one was fun!Books mentioned in this week's episode include Jenny's own:The October WitchesThe November WitchesThe December WitchesThe January Witches (novella)Netta Becker and the Timeline CrimeAnd the stories which have shaped her include:Scribble Boy, by Philip RadleyThe work of Tamora Pierce The Redwall books, by Brian JacquesRed Thread, by Jorge Luis BorgesThe legend of King Arthur, particularly The Sword in the StoneMyth and legend in general!This episode of Storyshaped, with Louie StowellThe work of SophoclesThe Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and the stage show versionThe Tiger Who Came to Tea, by Judith KerrThe work of Eva IbbotsonBrambly Hedge, by Jill BarklemAngelina Ballerina, by Katharine Holabird and Helen CraigNorthern Lights, by Philip PullmanPodkin One-Ear by Kieran LarwoodArtemis Fowl, by Eoin ColferThe Morse books by Colin DexterGood Omens, by Terry Pratchett Skullduggery Pleasant, by Derek LandyPeter Pan, by JM BarrieDaughter of the Sea, by Berlie DohertyThe Sea Maiden's Odyssey, by Berlie Doherty and Tamsin RosewellFire and Hemlock, by Diana Wynne JonesThe work of Benjamin Zephaniah, particularly his version of Tam LinOur podcast bookshop in Ireland is Halfway Up the Stairs: www.halfwayupthestairs.ie. You might also like to check out www.kennys.ie for free shipping within the Republic of Ireland!In the UK, check out our storefront on: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/Storyshaped. Disclaimer: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, it's our treat to talk to the prolific Peter Bunzl, whose books are packed with imagination, heart, and a whirling sense of adventure. We chatted Death, the Brontes, and snogging Lord Bertilak, among loads of other bookishly brilliant stuff. Come and join us on our Storyshaped ramble through Peter's writing life.Books mentioned in this week's episode include Peter's own:CogheartMoonlocketSkycircusShadowseaThe Clockwork QueenFeatherlightDragon RacersMagicbornGlassbornAnd the stories which have shaped him include:His Dark Materials, by Philip PullmanBrightstorm, by Vashti HardyThe Mortal Engines series, by Philip ReeveThe Wolves of Willoughby Chase, by Joan AikenThe work of Charles DickensBangers and Mash (an early school reader)The work of Roald DahlWatership Down, by Richard AdamsPlague Dogs, by Richard AdamsThe Iron Man, by Ted HughesSir Gawain and the Green Knight, in all its formats (and Miss Hann, the school teacher who cast Peter as the Green Knight)The BeanoCarl Bark's Donald DuckAsterix, by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, et alThe Lord of the Rings, by JRR Tolkien - particularly the audiobook editionThe Hitchhikers' Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas AdamsThe work of Terry PratchettGormenghast, by Mervyn PeakeThe Wizard of Earthsea, by Ursula K Le GuinA Midsummer Night's Dream, by William ShakespeareMacbeth, by William ShakespeareRomeo and Juliet, by William ShakespeareThe Tempest, by William ShakespeareJonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, by Susanna ClarkeFire and Hemlock, by Diana Wynne JonesPeter the Wild Boy - a historical figurePeter Pan, by JM BarrieGlass Town by Isabel GreenbergThe Magicians Trilogy, by Lev GrossmanThe Magic Toyshop, by Angela CarterIcarus, by Kay AncrumRiddley Walker, by Russell HobanTurtle Diary, by Russell Hoban Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.