Popular Irish sports series for young readers set for two new releases

Two new books for sports-mad youngsters are set to published next month from a popular series.

'Great Irish Sports' Stars' is a series of sports books by O'Brien Press, with exciting biographies in the series by Colm Cooper, Sonia O'Sullivan and Mayo legend Cora Staunton.

The latest books profile another two legends of Irish sport.

Shay Given

The inspiration behind many of Ireland's greatest days, Shay Given earned 134 caps for his country and played in goal for Ireland for 20 years!

From the time he was a young boy playing football with his brothers in the front garden of their Donegal home, Shay Given dreamed of football glory. Leaving home at just sixteen to join Celtic, Shay had to face many challenges on the road to becoming a world-class goalkeeper. He went on to play for top clubs like Newcastle United and Manchester City, played in the Champions League, and was the last line of defence for Ireland at the World Cup and the European Championships. The inspirational life story of the Republic of Ireland’s longest-serving player.

Natasha Mac a’Bháird is a freelance writer and editor. She is the author of the bestselling wedding planning guide, The Irish Bride’s Survival Guide and her latest book is The Irish Bridesmaid's Guide. Her first two children’s books, Missing Ellen and Olanna’s Big Day, were both chosen for the White Ravens Collection.

Jason Sherlock

Before Jason Sherlock was an icon of Hill 16, he was a prodigy in basketball, soccer and even hurling. Follow Jason’s journey from an estate in Finglas to the top of the Irish sporting world and how he became an Dublin GAA icon as the Boys in Blue won the All-Ireland football final in 1995. It wasn't always easy, as Jason had to cope with racist abuse from an early age. After his inspiring playing career, Jason would go on to become a trusted assistant for Jim Gavin during Dublin's five-in-a-row run. Discover how a boy from the Dublin northside found strength in his difference to become a gaelic football great.

Donny Mahoney is a writer and journalist. He was born in America and has lived in Ireland since 2004. He is one of the co-founders of the website Balls.ie, where he works today.

Both books go on sale on Monday, September 6. You can pre-order them at https://obrien.ie/childrens/great-irish-sports-stars