Louisburgh hosting ‘The Adventures of Gráinne Bear’ book launch

Mayo has fallen in love with Paddington Bear since he first appeared not so long ago on a bench in front of The Mayo News offices on The Fairgreen in Westport. Happily, he seems content to stay, enjoying a marmalade sandwich and the attention of visitors of all ages, who come and sit with him a while and watch the world go by.

But there’s another bear in town – and this one is not from deepest, darkest Peru. She’s from right here in the west of Ireland, and she’s just as adorable. She’s had lots of adventures too, and she’s keen to tell everyone all about them.

‘The Adventures of Gráinne Bear’ is a new series of children’s books written by Bernie Gaughan, a woman who is very passionate about bears of all kinds and their adventures. The first in the series, entitled ‘The Discovery’, will be launched this Thursday evening, November 28, in the Grainuaile Visitor Centre, Church Street, Louisburgh, at 6.30pm – and all are welcome.

This book tells the enchanting story of how Gráinne Bear and her family are discovered, recounting Gráinne Bear’s ancestors’ connection with Grace O’Malley, Mayo’s Pirate Queen, more commonly known as Gráinne Mhaol, or Granuaile. There are many adventures, from way back in the 16th century to the present day, travelling all along the coast of Mayo, the Wild Atlantic Way and beyond.

History and fiction combine to create a beautiful story that is sure to capture the imagination, and the book's timely release means it could make the perfect Christmas gift for young and old. 

Bernie was inspired to write the ‘Adventures of Gráinne Bear’ series by her time working at the Granuaile Visitor Centre. The books have allowed her to merge her natural creativity and her keen interest in history, channelling them through the medium of teddy bears to produce these beautiful stories. 

‘The Adventures of Gráinne Bear – The Discovery’ will be available to buy at the Granuaile Centre, Louisburgh, and The Bookshop, Westport. More outlets will be announced on the website, grainnebear.ie. 

In more exciting news, Gráinne Bear herself will also attend the upcoming Christmas markets in Newport and Westport Town Hall. 

For more information, visit grainnebear.ie or email grainnebearsadventures@gmail.com.