Cork author's debut novel chosen for 'One County, One Book' initiative

The book Freya Harte is Not a Puzzle by author Méabh Collins has been selected as the chosen title for this year’s ‘One County, One Book’ initiative by Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service.

Now in its fourth year, ‘One County, One Book’ is designed to promote homegrown literature and literacy as part of the library’s community outreach programme to young people, and is supported by Creative Ireland.

Cork County Mayor councillor Joe Carroll welcomed the return of the initiative, saying: “It is hugely important that we support Irish authors, in particular homegrown literature that encourages young people to embrace diversity and build a more inclusive society.”

Méabh Collins has a background in both education and children’s literature, and her debut novel is an account of a newly diagnosed autistic teenage girl who very firmly does not want “special treatment” in school.

The protagonist, Freya, has always felt different, so when she learns she’s autistic she doesn’t want anyone to know, all she wants is to fit in.

The book examines if she really needs to change herself or if she can find friends who like her just the way she is, with the book centring on friendship, discovering who you really are, and being okay with it.

In celebration of the book, secondary school and Youthreach students are invited to Vertigo at Cork County Hall next month for book discussion with the author.

Booking is essential and places can be secured by emailing Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service at schoolslibrary@corkcoco.ie.

Further online events will be held during November to allow students the opportunity to meet and discuss the book, with schools interested in attending also asked to email the council.

Copies of Freya Harte is Not a Puzzle are now available in all branch and mobile libraries across the county, as well as online as an e-book via Borrowbox.