Gaoth Dobhair publisher Éabhlóid launches 4 new titles at Oireachtas na Samhna

The Gaoth Dobhair publisher Éabhlóid launched four new books at the Irish language festival Oireachtas na Samhna last weekend. Among the books launched was a new edition of An Grá agus an Ghruaim by the renowned Rann na Féirste writer Seosamh Mac Grianna. An Grá agus an Gruaim was first published in 1929 with later editions omitting one of the stories and editorial choices favouring standard or caighdeán Irish spellings.

This latest edition based on the original text, is faithful to the original text, giving precedence to the natural rhythms and spelling used by the author. Speaking at the launch, Professor Fionntán de Brún, whose academic research includes extensive study of the writing of Seosamh Mac Grianna, gave a fascinating insight into the life and work of Seosamh Mac Grianna. 

Éabhlóid also launched Sin Ceann Maith!, a collection of funny stories and jokes written by Gaoth Dobhair man, Joe Ó Dónaill. Joe is a familiar face to anyone who enjoys watching Steip, the national Sean-nós dancing competition he has presented for many years now on TG4. A life-long interest in writing and performing sketches and dramas allowed Joe to hone his craft and this book of jokes is just a sample of some of the hilarious material he has perfected over the years. 

Proinsias Mac a’ Bhaird, the Arainn Mór author was on hand to launch Gabriel Rosenstock’s latest book for young people Scéilíní Scanrúla.  Beautifully illustrated by Graham Corcoran and suitable for children aged between 9 -12 years old. According to Mac a’ Bhaird, this is a book that doesn’t talk down to children, instead Rosenstock shows a deep understanding and respect for his young readers. A book full of humanity, humour and imagination.

Athmháthair a translation by Máire Nic Mhaoláin of Accabadora by Michela Murgia was also launched at the Oireachtas by Antain Mac Lochlainn. Mac Lochlainn expressed his delight that this new translation opens a window for Irish language readers into the world of Sardinia where the novel is set between the years of 1950 -1960, and described the many parallels he found between the world of the novel and the world familiar to an Irish audience. 

Eoghan Mac Giolla Bhríde who founded the publishing company Éabhlóid in 2008, said it was a privilege and an honour that such distinguished writers had entrusted Éabhlóid with their work, and thanked all those he had worked with, from editors,designers and artists who had worked tirelessly to produce these new titles to the highest possible standard.