Birr artist shortlisted for Irish Book Awards

Birr artist Shannon Bergin has been shortlisted for Irish Book Awards, for her work on collaborative project 'Swim Little Otter'.

The book was written by Tom McCaughren and Erika McGann, with the artwork created by Shannon.

The book is the trios second collaboration, having previously worked together 'Run Home, Little Fox'. The project was awarded the 2025 Irish Book Awards Children’s Book of the Year (Junior).

Speaking about the nomination, Shannon said it is sitting on the shelf with "some incredible books by some of the best people".

"Big thanks to Tom and Erika, as well as all the folks at The O'Brien Press for all of the hard work and dedication to making the book the best it could possibly be and for having me be a part of it."

The description for 'Swim Little Otter' reads: "Poor Little Otter can’t swim. The deep, dark river is just too scary. But he has to learn to swim or he won’t be a real otter. Maybe his new friend Tom Cat can help."

'Swim Little Otter', priced at €14.99, is published by O'Brien Press LTD.