Making it up as you Go Along by Patricia Forde

Learn how to write stories from Laureate na nÓg (Ireland's children's literature laureate) and bestselling author of The Wordsmith, Patricia Forde.

In this fun and practical illustrated guide, young writers can learn from some of Ireland's most beloved authors, including Eoin Colfer (Artemis Fowl) Catherine Doyle (Twin Crowns), Pádraig Kenny (Stitch) and Derek Landy (Skullduggery Pleasant), and discover how to:

• Find that spark inspiration for your story
• Craft and develop twisty plots
• Create brilliant characters
• Build spectacular new worlds

Also includes imaginative exercises, accessible explanations of writing terms and engaging illustrations by beloved Irish artist Mary Murphy.

A joyous celebration of creativity and community for young storytellers.

Pre-Reading Thoughts

It’s always wonderful to see the Irish writing community rally around something for the next generation — and this one promised to be something special. As a bookseller, I’ve met a few of the featured authors, so opening this felt a bit like sitting down for a friendly chat with familiar faces (albeit ones with very impressive bookshelves).

Post-Reading

As I thought...
This really is a love letter to storytelling and the sheer fun of making things up. The tone is friendly, flexible, and full of heart — it bends around the child rather than boxing them in. There’s no “This is the right way to write a story!” energy here; instead, it’s “Here’s what’s worked for us — and if it doesn’t fit, no worries, we’ll find another path together.” That inclusive, encouraging voice makes it something special.

It surprised me by...
How well it balances inspiration with practical advice. Between the letters from Ireland’s literary heavyweights and Mary Murphy’s lively illustrations, there’s so much warmth and personality here that even the trickier writing concepts feel approachable. It’s not just a guide — it’s an open invitation to play with words.

Vibe Check

• Colour palette: Bright crayons and well-thumbed notebooks

• Soundtrack: The hum of chatter at a school book fair

• Season: Early autumn — schoolbag full of possibility

• Mood: Curious, confident, creative

• Scent: Fresh paper and pencil shavings, with a hint of hot chocolate nearby