In the Heart of Armagh: Bringing Armagh to Life for Young Readers
From the moment I dreamed up In the Heart of Armagh, I knew it was a story I wanted to share—not just with children, but with our whole community. Creating a children’s book set in the heart of our town has been a project close to my heart, and I’m thrilled to finally see it come to life.
Why This Book Means So Much to Me
As a lifelong resident of Armagh, I've always felt there’s something truly special about our town. From its iconic cathedrals and vibrant history to its hidden nooks and beloved landmarks, Armagh is rich with stories. My hope was to weave these familiar places into a fun and engaging story that children could relate to.
With In the Heart of Armagh, I wanted to give young readers a tale that feels close to home. It’s a way for them to see their everyday world transformed into an adventure, where they might recognise the streets they walk down, the buildings they pass by, and the places they visit. This connection, I hope, will foster a sense of pride in their hometown, inspiring them to look around with fresh eyes and feel excited about where they come from.
The Journey of Creating a Children’s Book
Writing and illustrating a children’s book is no small task, but it’s a labour of love. Bringing characters and settings to life for young readers requires a balance of imagination and careful consideration. Every scene, character, and colour choice matters. I wanted to ensure that the images were vibrant and inviting and that the characters were relatable and fun.
The process involved countless drafts, sketches, and revisions, each one getting a little closer to the vision I held in my mind. Plotting the adventures of this mischievous little gang was one of the most enjoyable parts! They get up to all sorts of antics in the most recognisable spots in town—from the cathedrals and the Robinson Library to the steps of the old Market Street library and even a visit to the Planetarium. Each place holds its own magic, and my goal was to capture that and present it in a way that kids would find exciting.
Inspiring a Love of Reading and Community
At its core, In the Heart of Armagh is more than just a story. It’s a way for children to connect with reading and, at the same time, with their community. By recognising locations and landmarks, I hope young readers feel a sense of belonging and pride as they turn the pages. Familiarity can be powerful for children, and if seeing these places in a story can make reading more enjoyable for them, then I've achieved something truly rewarding.
There’s nothing like getting lost in a book, especially one that reflects a little of who you are and where you’re from. For me, knowing that children in Armagh might experience that feeling with this book is incredibly meaningful.
Thank You for Your Support
I couldn’t have done this without the support and encouragement of so many people—friends, family, and early supporters who believed in this project from the start. Your enthusiasm has kept me going through the ups and downs of the creative process, and I’m so grateful.
Above all comes a very special thank you to my family, To Gretta for being a constant support, for going above and beyond at home so this project could happen how and when it has. And to Elijah, Lola-Rose and the soon-to-be-in-our-arms new baby. The idea of sitting down with you guys and read this book to you has always kept me going when I’ve hot a bump in the road.
With pre-orders now open, I’m thrilled to share In the Heart of Armagh with all of you. I hope that it brings joy to young readers and that, in some small way, it helps them feel proud of their roots.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.
Here’s to many more stories!
Jonathan Hackett
