Pigin of Howth Kathleen Watkins 9780717169726

Destined to be a classic, the first children's book from Kathleen Watkins (aka Nanakit) brings to life the Pigin stories she created for her five beloved grandchildren.

Have you met Pigin?

Pigin lives in Howth, a beautiful seaside town on Dublin Bay, and he is a very popular pig about town. He is friendly, curious, impeccably dressed and has the nicest manners a pig could possibly have. Join Pigin and his friends, Sammy Seal, Sally Seagull, the Badger of Ballsbridge and the fairies who live in Howth Castle, on their many adventures.

Story 1: Pigs Can't Fly, but They Can Swim!

Story 2: Pigin's Magical Midnight Adventure

Story 3: A Day to Wear a Top Hat

In these three stories Pigin learns how to swim, goes on a magic carpet ride and even gets to meet the President of Ireland!

But best of all is coming home to tell Nanakit all about it

'Genuinely whimsical' Kirkus Review

'A delight' The Sunday Times

'A beautiful book. Just lovely, warm and kindly' Ryan Tubridy

'Adorable and prettily illustrated' Irish Mail on Sunday

'Gorgeous book and written with real warmth and affection!' Marty Whelan

'Delightful ... great fun!' Sunday Independent

Kathleen Watkins was a well-known harpist and folk singer when she became the first continuity announcer to appear on screen on Telefis Eireann's launch night in 1960. She has also served on the board of the Arts Council of Ireland and the National Gallery of Ireland, and in recent years has done poetry readings in the National Library and National Gallery of Ireland. She married the broadcaster Gay Byrne and lived for many years in Howth, where the Pigin stories are set.

When Kathleen's grandson, Cian, was three years old - and after every story book in the house had been read and re-read - his granny (aka Nanakit) introduced him to her friend, a little piglet called Pigin. From then on her Pigin stories were a constant request from all five beloved grandchildren. Although Kathleen's Pigin stories have been told many times, this is her first book.

Margaret Anne Suggs was born and raised in the American Deep South, but later moved to Dublin, Ireland, where she completed her Master's Degree at the National College of Art and Design. When she is not drawing, painting and making things, she is a lecturer in the illustration department at Ballyfermot College of Further Education, where she founded the illustration course. Margaret Anne is the Promotions Officer for Illustrators Ireland, a dynamic group of professional illustrators working to promote their craft. She lives near the sea in Co. Dublin with her husband, sons and cat.