Author Claire O'Malley launches new book, Ezra and Mr. Jim

by Patrick Donnellan

CLAIRE O’Malley has launched her new children’s book, Ezra and Mr. Jim, with MEP Maria Walsh performing the official launch at the Parish Centre in Ballinrobe.

Ms. Walsh said she was ‘amazed at the many layers of meaning included in the story,’ and went on to describe it as extraordinary, drawing comparisons between the title character, Ezra, and the many children living across Europe in similar circumstances. Luckily, she said, there were also many people like Mr. Jim who gave of their time and energy to help those in need.

To finish, Maria invited Claire’s grand-niece, Martha Burtchaell, to perform a traditional Irish dance to ensure the books would ‘reel’ off the bookshop shelves!

Ezra and Mr. Jim is Claire’s fourth venture into the world of children’s books after the success of Blitzen’s Best Christmas, The Seagull, and Sam’s Baking Adventure. Claire tells an important story of friendship and kindness that will resonate with children everywhere.

The book is creatively illustrated by Denis Finan. Denis is an artist and illustrator, a native of Ballina, now living and working in London. Every stroke of the brush brings characters to life, filling the pages with wonder and imagination.

Ezra and Mr. Jim tells the story of an unlikely start to a life-changing friendship. From playful adventures to transformative journeys, the story of Ezra growing into a young man, guided by Mr. Jim, is a remarkable tale of growth and self-discovery that shape him into a confident and capable adult. There is an important undertone of friendship and kindness throughout that is truly heart-warming.

Like Maria Walsh, I also highly recommend this book for young readers. It’s a captivating story that will spark their imagination and keep them engaged from beginning to end.