Children’s Books Ireland International Conference 2024

The Children’s Books Ireland International Conference is a weekend-long celebration of the very best in children’s books. Taking place in September, this annual event is a unique opportunity to critically reflect on the impact, imagination and importance of books for young people. Anyone with an interest in and a passion for children’s books is welcome to attend and participate in what is always an outward-looking, lively and thought-provoking event.

Conference tickets are now available for in-person or online access via YouTube streaming, for a single day or for the full weekend.

This year’s conference theme Character Building has a double meaning; we’re asking speakers to talk about the importance characters and character development plays in their work. But we also want to find out about what is it that builds character, resilience and strength, both on the page and in real life.

Creating art for children and young adults comes with the opportunity to model behaviour like overcoming challenges, learning new skills and dealing with external influences. What can we learn about ourselves and our own character when creating and enjoying books for young readers?

Featuring an array of international children’s authors and illustrators the conference’s theme, Character Building examines how the creative process contributes to developing as a rounded human being and how this is reflected in the richness and depth of books created for children and young adults today.

Conference 2024 speakers list A-Z

Samira Ahmed

David Almond

Oein DeBhairduin

Chris Haughton

Olivia Hope

Sophie Kirtley

Tarsila Krüse

Sarah Moore Fitzgerald

E.R. Murray

Tristan Rosenstock

Kim Sharkey

Fiona Woodcock

Harry Woodgate

Plus New Voices and more to be announced!

Artwork based from The History of Information by Chris Haughton published by DK on 5 September

We want everyone to enjoy the Children’s Books Ireland International conference and the opportunities it has to offer, whatever their financial situation.

If you are unwaged, we have a limited number of in-person and online conference tickets set aside at no fee, both for in person and online access. Please do get in touch as soon as possible on (01) 872 7475 or at info@childrensbooksireland.ie.

In addition, Children’s Books Ireland can also provide some financial support for anyone who requires it towards travel, accommodation and child care costs, please let us know about your needs and what level of financial support would allow you to attend the conference. Please let us know whether you would like to avail of this opportunity before 5pm on 6th September 2024 on (01) 872 7475 or at info@childrensbooksireland.ie. All information shared is strictly confidential.

Similarly, if you wish to delay payment for your ticket, please do get in touch and we can arrange this for you. No deposit needed.

*Please note in-person tickets for Children’s Books Ireland members are better value than those for non-members, this is just one of the perks of membership. To join Children’s Books Ireland as a member or to renew your membership please follow this link, then return to purchase your tickets.*

Check out our YouTube channel for videos of previous years’ speakers.