Today I’m going to tell you a story about Johnny Magory. I’m sure that saying brings back memories for anyone who grew up in Ireland.
I’m delighted to introduce you to Emma Jane Leeson, the creator of a lovely series of Irish children’s picture books, featuring our childhood favorite, Johnny Magory.
And Emma Jane has provided a three book gift bundle for one lucky reader to win. But before we get into the details of how to enter this giveaway, let’s first learn a little about Johnny Magory. And so I am going to hand you over to Emma-Jane….
Who Is Johnny Magory?
The Johnny Magory books are a series of children’s books based on the old Irish saying:
“I’ll tell you a story about Johnny McGory”
This saying was usually finished with:
“Let me begin it.. That’s all that’s in it!”
We can assure you that there’s far more to a Johnny Magory book than the old saying!
Johnny Magory was developed into a character and these books reflect on life in Ireland for the author growing up.
Written in rhyme, these pacey books engage readers of all ages and abilities. There’s also a free audio download of the book available for those who cannot manage on their own just yet.
These books are all about our beautiful country and aim to educate and instill a sense of pride and passion in young children about Irish heritage, wildlife and culture.
The books were shortlisted for the CAP Awards 2017 ‘Best Junior Book’ category.
Johnny Magory In The Magical Wild:
Join Johnny as he has the time of his life at the forest party with his magical woodland friends Mr Badger, Mr Fox, Mrs Squirrel and many more. Johnny’s Mammy said he has to be home for lunch but will Johnny and his trusty dog Ruairi remember to make it home on time?
Johnny Magory and the Game of Rounders:
Set amongst the flora and fauna of the raised bogs of Ireland; Johnny and Ruairi team up with their magical friends Lord Stag, Finn Hare, Ms Grouse and many more for a game of Rounders they’ll never forget. But in all the fun has Johnny forgotten about his work… And his Mammy & Daddy?
Johnny Magory and the Wild Water Race:
“Johnny Magory and the Wild Water Race” is set on Ireland’s Grand Canal. Meet Johnny’s little sister Lily-May! Johnny and Ruairi take part in a wild water race with Dusty the old barge horse, heron, Mr Otter, Mrs Pike and many more.
Guaranteed Irish:
Johnny Magory books are proud members of Guaranteed Irish. The books are ‘Guaranteed Irish’ as they are written in Kildare, edited in Dublin, illustrated in Kilkenny and printed in Mayo. Guaranteed Irish is a business membership organization representing over 300 homegrown and international businesses investing in Ireland.
Partnering with CMRF Crumlin Hospital:
Johnny Magory books are also official partners with CMRF Crumlin with €1 from the sale of every book going directly to the charity. CMRF are the official charity for Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children in Dublin. The charity is very close to Emma-Jane’s heart.
About Emma-Jane:
Growing up in Ireland each and every night Emma-Jane’s Mammy and Daddy told her a story about Johnny Magory.
Usually derived from whatever sort of harm and devilment she had got up to that day, she couldn’t wait for bedtime to hear about what Johnny had done too!
This inspired her to write down a few stories and bring Johnny McGory to the next generation.
The aim of these books is simple; try and instill a love of Irish heritage, culture & nature into the children that read them.
EJ has written and published “The Adventures of Johnny Magory” children’s books series whilst managing 3 children, an adult male, a dog, 2 cats, some hens & a full time career in HR.
These books reflect on life growing up in Ireland. Johnny Magory books aim to inspire and instill a sense of pride and passion in young children about Ireland’s landscape, wildlife, heritage and pastimes.
You can follow Emma-Jane and Johnny Magory on Twitter and Facebook.
Inside illustration from a Johnny Magory book.
The Giveaway:
One lucky winner will win a three book gift bundle of Johnny Magory books by Emma-Jane Leeson.
To enter just leave a comment on this blog post by noon on Saturday, March 10th, 2018.
Any comment will do. What you write does not affect your chance of winning, but if you need inspiration why not tell us about your favorite childhood story character.
A winning comment will be chosen randomly. Remember to leave your e-mail so that I can contact you should you win. Your e-mail won’t be published, just used to contact our lucky contestant for mailing of the prize.
The winner will be announced on Saturday, March 10th 2018, at the bottom of this blog post.
You may check out Irish American Mom’s complete terms and conditions for sweepstakes’ entries by clicking here.
A big thank you to Emma-Jane for telling her stories of Johnny Magory, and for sponsoring this wonderful prize.
Winner Chosen on Saturday March 10th, 2018:
A winner has been randomly chosen using the Pick Giveaway Winner Plugin for WordPress. The lucky winner of this new Irish book is …..
Kristina McGovern
I’ll send Kristina an email to let her know the good news. Many thanks to all who entered this Irish American Mom giveaway and a big thank you to Emma-Jane for sponsoring this prize.
Slán agus beannacht,
(Goodbye and blessings)
Irish American Mom
If you enjoyed this post here are some other stories and tributes you might enjoy.
Eulogy For An Irish American Mother
Irish Sayings About Horses
Between The Jigs And The Reels
What a brilliant idea for a kid’s book. Thanks for the giveaway.
Ah, ’tis an appropriate post for March, IAM. I’ve not heard of the Johnny Magory books, but as the grandfather of a six-year old teetering on the cusp of literacy, I’m always looking for books that will hold his attention. Of course the animal companions and their names put me in mind of Kenneth Graham’s Wind in the Willows, A.A. Milne’s Christopher Robin stories and poems, and our own Joel Chandler Harris’s Uncle Remus stories (Brers’ Rabbit, Bear, Fox, et. al.). In my youth, when the world was young, my hero was Hiawatha, the principal character in Longfellow’s “The Song of Hiawatha.” I loved Longfellow’s phonetic Great Lakes Native American renderings of indigenous terminology. I was inspired to “go Indian,” fashioned moccasins from my dad’s castoff khaki pants and shocked the neighborhood by running about clothed in nothing more than my homemade-but tastefully beaded–loincloth.
Thanks for this post–and advocating for children’s literature. TMJ
Hi T.M. – I love all the books and writers you mentioned. Such wonderful memories childhood books create. Thanks for sharing your childhood love of Hiawatha and native American moccasins and garb. 🙂 A friend who is part of a children’s writing critique group I belong to in Kentucky is rewriting old Cherokee tales for today’s children. I love his stories, and many of the tales he shares with us remind me of some old Irish folk tales. Here’s a link for his latest publication …
https://www.amazon.com/Spearfinger-English-Cherokee-Charles-Suddeth/dp/1940310571
I read many of the edits and revisions of this manuscript and the final product is a credit to Chuck, the author.
Many thanks for checking out this blog post.
Mairéad
Thanks for the link to Suddeth’s book, IAM. It was good of you to help with the editing/proofing process. An extra pair of eyes can’t but help produce a better ms or book. Interesting about the Cherokee. Required reading for some of my classes years back was Forrest Carter’s “The Education of Little Tree,” a quasi-memoir (some controversy surrounding the book) of a young boy raised by his Cherokee grandparents. It has been some years since I read/taught the book but I seem to remember reference to “The Trail of Tears.” The Cherokee were the first indigenous people to create an alphabet for their language and print and publish in Cherokee…even had their own newspaper.
Edna Ferber in her novel “Cimarron” about the Oklahoma Land Rush has some sections of humor regarding the Natives living on those lands. The treaty land had beneath it one of the richest oil fields in the country. The Natives living on this land became wealthy overnight and spent their new found wealth in strange ways. Some bought airplanes with tragic results. One character filled his house with telephones and had neighbors call him just so he could hear them all ring simultaneously. Ferber’s book was fiction, remember….
Looks like the IAM is up to her elbows in replies to comments:) TMJ
Thanks for all the tips about other books from the past about native Americans. A few years back we visited the Cherokee Nation just outside Great Smoky Mountain National park. The tour was very interesting – we learned about their language and schools. They still have a school where the children are taught through Cherokee. I hope they can keep their language alive.
All the best,
Mairéad
I love this idea too, Sheila. I had forgotten all about Johnny Magory until I saw these lovely books to bring back memories of this old saying.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Oh my what a wonderful idea. I would love to be able to read this to my grandson. He likes me to read one book after another. It’s wonderful to actually have a story from where his ancestors come, on both sides.
Hi Sheila – It’s lovely to hear from so many grandparents who love to read with their grandchildren. I think there is a need in the market for Irish tales for children, that aren’t as sad or violent as some of the stories we grew up hearing, like the Children of Lir and stories of the Fianna. These little books are perfect for today’s children all the while teaching them about Ireland.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
I will love to win these books for my nephew Kyle! He will just love them:)
Hi Tom – Thanks for stopping by and supporting this little giveaway.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
I can’t believe these books exist! My relatives in Ireland always told me thd Johnny stories when I was young. Love this!
Hi Michaela – Johnny Magory is the perfect character for children’s adventure books. Well don to Emma-Jane for coming up with Johnny as her main character for this series. His very name triggers lovely memories for those of us who grew up in Ireland.
All the best,
Mairéad
These books are lovely and I would be thrilled to win them. The illustrations are great and Irish eyes (the characters) are definitely smiling!
Hi Dawn – The illustrations are truly superb. I too love the glint in Johnny’s smiling Irish eyes.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
I would love to read these to my granddaughter! ❤️
Hi Cindy – Thanks so much for checking out this blog post and for entering our little giveaway. There are perfect books for sharing and reading time with grandkids.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Oh, I think I would LOVE these books!
Favorite character? There are so many! I love the books by Beatrix Potter! She not only created those characters and wrote the books but also did all the drawings herself!
I am thankful you told me about these books! Remember I told you that my nephew and his wife went to Ireland for their honeymoon? They now have a baby boy…perfect books for him! xx
Hi Kay – Congratulations on the birth of your grandnephew. It only seems like yesterday you mentioned that your nephew and his wife were heading to Ireland for their honeymoon. Boy, how time flies. These books will definitely be perfect for reading to your grandson in just a few short years.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
These books would be great to read to my 2 year ol Grandson, at the moment his favourites are We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and The Gruffallo. I would him to have stories from my homeland.
Hi Pat – My kids loved the Gruffallo and all of Julia Donaldson’s books. She is great at rhyming. These books are truly charming and the illustrations are just lovely.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
These books would be a wonderful gift for my grandson! He missed being born on St. Patrick’s Day by one hour and his middle name is Patrick. Last name is totally Irish, first name is my mother’s maiden surname. It would be a good way for him to explore his Irish heritage.
Hi Karen – Patrick is the perfect middle name for a little boy with Irish heritage, especially since he was so very close to being born on St, Patrick’s Day. Lovely to hear from all the grandparents who are exploring their Irish heritage with their grandchildren.
All the best,
Mairéad
Good afternoon Mairead, I would love to win these books for my great niece. Her grandfather passed away before she was born and I would love for to her to learn about her Irish heritage. Thank you.
Hi Linda – So sorry to hear your great niece never got to meet her Irish grandfather, but it’s lovely to know you plan to share her Irish heritage with her.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Heritage, such an exciting journey to define our very existence. My Irish roots begin on the McDermott family farm in Roscommon. Followed by the immigration of my grandfather, Thomas, to the United States, through Elis Island. He imagined just a short sojourn, to raise money for the family back home. His beloved Ireland and all it’s wonderful tradition and unwavering Catholic faith handed down to his four children. The girls becoming tap dancers (the closest lessons to Irish dance their father could find), traveled many times by foot, many miles, to perform at weddings and other celebrations. My own life influenced as stories of the homeland were handed down. My lifelong dream to return to the land my grandfather could never return to, became true last May. Ahh, my grandfathers Ireland, the green groves, the simplicity, the cherub faces of the children and the charm, wit, and hospitality of the people was so much more than I had ever dreamed. I thought, if only I could see Ireland just once it would satisfy my thirst for all that my grandfather loved. Ah, but now, my desire is to take my grandson to the land of Faith, family, and endearing friendship. As The aging process continues forward, perhaps a jaunt across the pond with my grandson will not come to fruition, but the magic of Ireland can become a reality through your precious books. Such is the tingling of the senses as only a great Irish writer can bestow to the reader and those little ears whose world grows as the words roll of the tongue. Sláinte to you and your enjoyable, enriching, entertaining and informative children’s books. Patti
Hi Patricia – Thank you so much for sharing your family’s immigrant tale. I think many an Irish person left their homeland for America, hoping to return someday, but never got the chance. I’m so happy that you finally got the chance to visit Ireland and that the welcome you felt there far surpassed your wildest dreams. Perhaps someday you will make it to Ireland again with your grandson. You never know! But in the meantime, reading Irish stories together is a perfect way to share tales of our Irish heritage with him.
All the best,
Mairéad
Good Afternoon, Mairead – – Just love your blog. I’d love to be entered in the drawing for the Johnny Magory books. I have one grandchild now, and am officially Granny Pam, of a little girl who loves having books read to her. These would be a welcome addition! Blessings!
Hi Pamnela – Reading together with your grandchild is such a special time. My kids are now too old for picture books and I miss reading rhyming tales to my captive audience, and appreciating beautiful illustrations that triggered their imaginations. Thanks for checking out these new Irish picture books here on my blog.
All the best,
Mairéad
I grew up in Northern Ireland and never heard of John Magory! I do remember as a child saying, “I’ll tell you a story about John McCrory, a hole in the wall and that’s it all.” Was this a NI version or did I just hear it wrong? Now, am I going to have to tell my grandchildren that I’ve been wrong all these years?! LOL!!
Hi Geraldine – It sounds like you have a Northern Ireland version of our Johnny Magory. Johnny Magory and John McCrory are definitely related in some way. It’s amazing the little nuances that develop as oral traditions are passed down from generation to generation and as they spread from county to county. I would nearly say your version may even be the original version. Magory or McCrory sound like names with origins in Ulster rather than the southern Irish provinces. No need to tell your grandchildren you were wrong – you just simply have an alternative version of the rhyme.
All the best,
Mairéad
Lovely books for the grands!
Hi Kathleen – It’s lovely to hear from all the grandparents who love reading to their grandchildren. Such an important way of making special memories.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
What a nice set!
So true, Veronica. The illustrations look lovely in these books.
All the best,
Mairéad
Great story lines and beautiful artwork. It would be fun to read to the kids and introduce them to the concept of Ireland.
Johnn Magory would be a wonderful kid’s ambassador for Ireland. I love the idea of learning about Ireland through the adventures of a little boy with the wonderful name of Johnny Magory.
All the best,
Mairéad
Wow! Am I to believe that I am fortunate enough to have won these books? They are going to an appreciate home, for sure. So very exciting!
Congratulations Kristina. Thanks for supporting this giveaway. I sent you an email to get your mailing address to send you your prize.
All the best,
Mairéad
Dear Mairead, To date, I have not received your email. Can you kindly re-send?
Many thanks, Kristina
Hi Kristina – I just resent it. Hopefully it doesn’t get sent to your spam folder.
All the best,
Mairéad
My grandson and I read everyday together. He loves to hear about other children’s fun and adventures. It will be even more special that these adventures take place in Ireland.
The fact these books are written in rhyme helps with comprehension and easily to repeat the story.
Hi Margaret Mary – When my kids were little they loved rhyming books too. Not many new children’s books are written in rhyme so it’s lovely to find these Johnny Magory books written in verse. It’s lovely to hear you get to read with your grandson everyday. What a blessing to be so close.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
These lovely books remind me of the Jan Brett stories I read to my children when they were youngsters! Beautiful illustrations and storylines that bring out rich cultural heritage!
These would be so fun to read to my future grandchildren (I am counting on some!) and give them a bit of Irish heritage!
Thanks for the chance, Mairéad!
Hi Sinita – I think adult readers of picture books enjoy the illustrations and stories just as much, or even more, than their younger listeners. Whenever I go to a bookstore I still browse the picture book section even though my kids are not so little anymore. There’s something magical about a really good picture book.
All the best,
Mairéad
What a wonderful post! The kindergarten teacher in me is jumping for joy over these books. I currently read the Junie B. Jones series to my kindergartners because Junie B. is forever doing something naughty and my kiddos love finding out what she’s going to do next. Now I have a new series to read to them!
Hi Traci – I think little ones can identify with characters who show a little bit of spunk. When my kiddos were very young they loved a picture book called “No David.” There were very few words in the book but they loved the illustrations showing all of David’s antics, accidents and trouble making. I’m so glad this post introduced you to a new Irish character, Johnny Magory.
All the best,
Mairéad
Great book for grandkids. Will cherish forever.
Hi Darla – I still keep some of my kids’ picture books as keepsakes. I hope to read them to my grandchildren in years to come.
All the best,
Mairéad
Thank You for the giveaway. I love reading any books on Ireland. My Irish roots come from my paternal grandparents. Since my father lost hos parents at a young age I have no idea what county they came from. The books look wonderful.
Marion
Hi Marion – Family history was often lost years ago for many reasons. Sorry to hear your grandparents passed away at an early age. But it’s lovely to know you feel such a deep connection to Ireland, your ancestral home. Thanks for checking out this post and giveaway.
All the best,
Mairéad
This is a wonderful giveaway. Reading is my favorite hobby. Irish books are one of my favorites.
Joan
Hi Joan – Thanks for supporting this giveaway and leaving a comment. It’s lovely to hear from readers who love Irish themed books.
All the best,
Mairéad
Thank You for this generous giveaway. I love reading books pertaining to Ireland and their citizens. Ireland is such a beautiful country.
Marilyn
This book would be awesome for my work center!
That’s great to hear, Anita.
Thanks for stopping by.
Mairéad
Oh I Love your idea for your books, I grew up in Dublin and i remember the saying. I have grandchildren now and would love to read these to them
Thank you.
Hi Kay – So many readers remember the saying. It’s such a good idea for a new children’s book. Thanks for supporting this little giveaway.
Mairéad
I could put these to excellent use in the next few years with my sweet grandsons 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway!
Hi Cheryl – I’m sure you will read many, many books with your grandsons over the years, and these would definitely be a perfect addition to your library.
All the best,
Mairéad
My kids are too old now, but I’d love to win these for my nieces. Thanks!
Hi Jason – Books are always a great gift.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
These look like lovely books! My favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon! Warm memories of snuggling with our daughter when she was young. I always include a copy in baby gifts. Good hearing from you!☘️
Hi Mary Ann – What a lovely idea to include a copy of “Goodnight Moon” when giving a baby gift. I really like the idea of including a picture book for creating future memories.
Thanks for stopping by to support this giveaway.
Take care,
Mairéad
I recently reconnected with my childhood friend (from 45 years ago) and would love to win these to gift to her 2 little granddaughters. Their great grandma was Irish!
Hi Mildred – Lovely to learn you were able to reconnect with your childhood friend – how wonderful. And these books would definitely be a lovely gift for her grandchildren.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
I feel like I found a little treasure. I can’t wait to get these books and share them with my grandchildren. We read together all the time, and I think they’re going to love these stories. They sound delightful!
If we don’t win them , we’re definitely going to go get them! They remind me of stories that my grandmother from Cork told me when I was little.
Hi Therese – I’m so glad this post and these lovey books brought back storytelling memories of your Cork grandmother.
All the best,
Mairéad
Hi Therese – Thanks for stopping by to check out these books.
All the best,
Mairéad
I have never been to Ireland….on my bucket list. My grandmother came here to marry my grandfather and obtained her citizenship. I am searching for her family or anyone who may have known her or her family. She came from Portadown, Northern Ireland and her name was Violet Kathleen Black..fathers name Joseph. She died when I was 1. Happy St Patrick’s Day
Hi Jennifer – Wishing you every success in your search for your family. I hope you get to visit Ireland someday, and perhaps even meet some long lost relatives.
All the best,
Mairéad
The Johnny Magory books sound like a total enrichment experience…nice!
Thank you, Mairead, for introducing these books by Emma-Jane! God bless each of you!
Hi Irishnannie – Knowing how you created Finney the Leprechraun, I think these books are just what you might like.
All the best,
Mairéad