Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service has selected ‘Freya Harte Is Not A Puzzle’ by author Méabh Collins, as the chosen title for this year’s ‘One County, One Book’ initiative.
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.
Méabh Collins has a background in both education and children’s literature and blends these skills beautifully in her debut novel with an account of a newly diagnosed autistic teenage girl who very firmly does not want “special treatment” in school.
Freya’s always felt different, so when she learns she’s autistic she doesn’t want anyone to know. All she wants is to fit in. But does she really need to change herself or can she find friends who like her just the way she is? ‘Freya Harte Is Not A Puzzle’ centres around friendship, discovering who you really are and being ok with that!
Written with sensitivity and care, this book does a fantastic job of showing how the language and terminology we use matters deeply. It is a school-based exploration of a young teen’s diagnosis as an autistic person and an exceptionally good insight as to what it is to be an autistic person.
NOVEMBER EVENTS
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Joe Carroll welcomed the return of the initiative.
“It is hugely important that we support Irish authors and in particular homegrown literature that encourages young people to embrace diversity and build a more inclusive society.”
In celebration of the book, secondary school and Youthreach students are invited to Vertigo at Cork County Hall next month for book discussion with author, Méabh Collins. Booking is essential and places can be secured by emailing Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service at schoolslibrary@corkcoco.ie. 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.
Further online events will be held during November to allow students the opportunity to meet and discuss the book. For further enquiries, email corkcountylibrary@corkcoco.ie
