Illustration Graduate wins Children’s Books Ireland prize

Tangleweed and Brine wins Children’s Books Ireland prize

Deirdre Sullivan, right, with Karen Vaughan who illustrated her collection of tales

A collection of dark feminist retellings of fairytales is the Children’s Books Ireland book of the year.

In Tangleweed and Brine, written by Deirdre Sullivan and illustrated by Karen Vaughan, stories from Cinderella to Rumpelstiltskin and tales of mermaids and monsters are given a makeover. Judges described the book as “remarkable” and a “timely contribution” to young adult literature.

An illustration for The Little Gift

Deirdre Sullivan’s simultaneously rich, delicate and stark text is powerfully enhanced by Karen Vaughan’s haunting black and white illustrations,” the panel said. “Combining the timeless allure of dark fantasy with subversive explorations of female embodiment and systems of women’s suffering and triumphs, this incisive, exquisite collection promises an enthralling and unsettling experience.

The awards took place in Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin yesterday.

Click to find out more about the Illustration course.

Apply for Higher National Diploma in Illustration (AIH) course now.