This wonderful new book (discovered by Gill Books’ Director Nicki Howard in the submissions pile) by child and young people’s therapist, Katie O’Donoghue, tells the story of Little Squirrel who hasn’t left his nest since last autumn.

Luckily, Little Squirrel has lots of friends in the forest, from Wren to Snuffly Hedgehog, Grey Rabbit to Mister Fox, Old Badger to Great Stag. Will their encouragement and words of advice be enough to help Little Squirrel to venture out?

This has been a very difficult year for many. Through the story of Little Squirrel and his adventures in the forest, readers young and old come to learn coping techniques and to realise that, although we all feel worried sometimes, we don’t have to face those worries alone. And with a little help from his friends, Little Squirrel eventually emerges from his cosy nest, as the rest of us begin to, too.

Katie O’Donoghue is a child and young people’s therapist with a background in fine art and design. She has a master’s degree in Art Psychotherapy and is currently completing a PhD in well-being and Heritage. The Little Squirrel Who Worried is her first book.

The story was written last year, while Katie was working for CAMHS in the UK as an Art Psychotherapist. The gentle tale of Little Squirrel utilises psychoeducation and CBT coping skills to support children, young and old alike with their worries. Moreover, The book is endorsed by the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists.

The Little Squirrel Who Worried is available on the Gill Books website at www.gillbooks.ie. You can follow Katie on Instagram @katieodonoghue_art.

Two winners will each win a copy of The Little Squirrel Who Worried.

To enter just fill in your contact details on our form below. We’ll be in touch by email with the lucky winners after the closing date of Sunday 22nd August, 2021.