Mayo authors launch inspiring children’s book

Mayo authors Eva Naughton and Aidan Gilmore will launch their new children’s book, Alfie - The Secret Scientist, at the Belcarra Community Center on Saturday, November 30 at 4 p.m.

This event promises to be a family-friendly celebration with hands-on science activities for kids, refreshments, and a chance to meet the authors behind this exciting new story.

The book, which is already available for purchase in The Castle Book Shop, Castlebar, and online https://www.mayobooks.ie/Alfie-The Secret Scientist, brings the world of science to life for young readers and encourages curiosity, creativity, and exploration.

Alfie - The Secret Scientist follows the adventures of a curious pup named Alfie, who discovers a hidden passion for science through secret experiments and exciting discoveries.

Alfie’s journey reflects the authors’ hope to inspire young readers to see science as something fun, accessible, and magical.

The character of Alfie was based on Eva’s real-life family pet dog, who shares his name, while two other beloved dogs, Poppy and Maverick, who belong to Aidan, also make appearances in the book.

The launch event at the Belcarra Community Center will feature interactive science activities for children, allowing them to try experiments and explore hands-on science in a way that mirrors Alfie’s own journey.

In addition to meeting the authors, families can enjoy a day of science-themed fun, pick up signed copies of the book, and learn more about the story’s inspirations.

Eva Naughton, co-author of Alfie - The Secret Scientist, brings a unique blend of creativity and science to her work.

Recently, she launched Lab-aDab-a-Doo (@lab_adab_adoo), a business that hosts science, arts, and crafts events and parties for kids, making science fun and interactive for young minds.

Alongside her entrepreneurial endeavors, Eva also works in the pharmaceutical industry, where she applies her knowledge of science in real-world settings.

“Creating Alfie’s story was about combining my love for science with a desire to make it accessible to children,” says Eva.

“Through Lab-aDab-a-Doo and now this book, I hope to spark curiosity and creativity in kids.”

Aidan Gilmore, a scientist with a multinational pharmaceutical company, shares Eva’s enthusiasm for making science approachable.

With a strong scientific background and a passion for education, Aidan brings a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to the book.

His two dogs, Poppy and Maverick, who add charm and mischief to Alfie’s story, have been a big part of his own journey.

“I wanted to show kids that science is about curiosity and discovery,” Aidan shares.

“With Alfie -The Secret Scientist, we hope to encourage young readers to ask questions, explore, and see the wonder in everyday things.”

Beyond being an entertaining read, Alfie - The Secret Scientist serves as a creative tool for parents and teachers seeking to introduce scientific concepts to children in a fun, accessible way.

The authors’ shared vision, combined with their professional expertise, makes the book a rich resource for sparking interest in science from an early age.

Join the community at the Belcarra Community Center on November 30 to celebrate this inspiring new book and enjoy an afternoon of science and creativity.

It’s a perfect opportunity for children to explore their inner scientist, meet the authors, and experience the excitement of Alfie -The Secret Scientist firsthand.