Kilkenny author announces launch of second book and first children’s picture book

Kilkenny author Saoirse Prendergast has announced the launch of her second book and first children’s picture book, Your Heart Already Knows.

It follows the publication of her debut novel, White Butterfly, which was described by The Irish Times as a ‘beautifully haunting illustration of grief and loss’.

The launch will take place on Saturday, August 15 at 2pm in Thomastown Community Centre as part of the Thomastown Creative Arts Festival (TCAF). The event will include a reading from the book and a celebration of its release with the local community as part of this year’s festival.

Your Heart Already Knows is a beautifully illustrated picture book celebrating intuition, courage, and the quiet wisdom within us all. Illustrated by local artists Sinéad Whelan and Aisling Smith, the story follows a woman and a mysterious horse on a journey through forest, mountain, and sea, where she discovers the strength that comes from trusting herself.

A gentle, lyrical story that speaks to readers of all ages, Your Heart Already Knows explores themes of hope, love, courage, and inner trust. While written as a children’s picture book, its message resonates just as deeply with adults, making it a story to be shared and treasured across generations.

PRAISE

Fellow author Helena Duggan has described the book as ‘beautifully written and beautifully illustrated – a keepsake’, while Pádhraic Moran, Principal, St Mary’s NS, Thomastown, said: “A charming, dreamlike tale about trusting your instincts and having the courage to face your fears.”

All are welcome to attend the launch and be among the first to experience the story, hear a reading from the book and celebrate its release.