Category: A Writer’s Life

Pictures & Feedback from Readers :)

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One of the best things about being an author is meeting readers. I love talking about books and writing, and I love to hear what readers think. My events are about books in general, not just my own, but I do love seeing how The Book of Learning has inspired people to create something else; a piece of art or work of their own.

Here’s a slideshow of some of the great work by St Patrick’s National School via Drumcondra library:

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And some more feedback I’d like to share, this time from Jamie, Realtín, Juli, Jack and Jamie…

  • Today was a good day. Thank you very much.
  • Elizabeth Murray’s talk was very good. We learned a lot.
  • We listened to a chapter from the Book of Learning.
  • We thought it was interesting but a little scary!
  • We then made up a story about a lady called Matilda.
  • Elizabeth told us that she keeps  a notebook for her writing. We think
    that this is a great idea. We met the author Rod Smith last week and he
    keeps a notebook too.
  • We asked Elizabeth lots of questions and she answered them all.
  • We thought she was very interesting and funny.
  • She told us that she takes off her shoes and socks when she writes!
  • We liked her blue hair!

Thank you so much to everyone for your comments and great work! Happy reading! 

The Book of Learning House!

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BDOOn Sunday, March 20th, my 2016 UNESCO Citywide Read events came to a close with 23 Mercury Lane from The Book of Learning recreated in real life! The wonderful St Patrick’s Festival team used the iconic RSAI building on Merrion Square as the setting and brought together a variety of people (and critters) to make the house in my book come to life. As well as my own readings, there was an actor, a magician, art and writing workshops, and real petting rats.

This was truly a one of a kind opportunity for me, as well as my readers, and it was great to see so many people turn up to share the experience. At times, there were queues down the street to get in! I was delighted to see some familiar faces, as well meet new readers, and I even got a few surprise gifts. So a huge thank you to everyone involved and everyone who came to enjoy the fun. Here are a few of my favourite photos from the day…

Making magical books!
And a drawing of Winston

 

 

A captive audience
Some quiet storytelling

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An unexpected gift…
And another!

 

Winston Gallery!

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Everyone has a different favourite character from The Book of Learning, but Winston is proving rather popular – especially during our illustration demonstrations. If you’ve drawn a character from my book, I’d love to see it! You can send me a photo or post your drawing (everyone likes happy post!) to:  ER Murray, c/o Mercier Press Ltd, Unit 3b Oak House, Bessboro Rd, Blackrock, Cork, T12 D6CH

I’ll be demonstrating how to draw Winston in The Book of Learning House on Merrion Square (March 20th, part of the Big Day Out, St Patrick’s Festival in Dublin) so come along and join in! There’ll be real rats, a magician, writing and art workshops and more… and I’ll be there. Stop by and say hello!

In the meantime, here’s some of my ‘Winston Gallery’ drawings so far…

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(Photos taken during a Dublin UNESCO Citywide Read event in the National Library of Ireland)

Best Ever Reader Feedback!

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Many people ask what it’s like to be an author, and I always say that the best bit is meeting the readers. Of course I adore the writing side; coming up with an idea, beating it into shape, then fine tuning it with the help on an editor or two. But once the book is in the public sphere, I also love the social side; literary festivals, interviews, radio, events in schools/libraries/bookshops.

Although it is also slightly terrifying, nothing beats getting feedback on your book. Whether it’s a review online (see goodreads and amazon) or it’s a person in front of you, telling you their thoughts about your book, meeting people that have enjoyed your work is an incredible feeling. And so, I thought I’d share some of the feedback… (keep going to see the video at the end!)

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Huge thanks to Bronagh for adding me in her school magazine!

And huge thanks also to the girls and boys that filled out feedback sheets after the UNESCO Citywide Read events. Here are some of the comments I’ve received so far – they make me chuckle SO MUCH I had to share!

Question: Did you enjoy the event?

‘Yes, it was a very scary story and it was good to meet the author’.

‘Yes, it was very good. It was good to meet the author. Her book was awesome’.

‘Yes, it was funny’.

‘Yes, it was the best’.

‘Yes, it was a great book and I can’t wait to read the next one’.

‘Yes, I enjoyed today so much. We enjoyed it a lot and had fun. I hope we come again soon’.

‘Yes, it was fun. She was funny’.

‘Yes, she’s so kind and happy’.

‘Yes 🙂  She likes death’.

‘Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Amazing. I love it sooooooo much’.

‘Yes!!!! 🙂 I think she’s funny because she likes death :-p . It was a great book!!’

‘Yep!! The Book of Learning is my favourite book! I can’t wait for the second one to come out!!!

‘Yes, for sure. I hope more will be coming from her soon’.

‘Yes, it was amazing. I can’t wait for the next books. It was so good, and it was spooky. She is really nice and funny’.

‘Yes I thought it was great, I learned a lot about writing. I am going to read the next one’.

‘Yes, I liked it, I’d say 10 out of 10’.

‘Yes, so much. It was good 10/10 and I hope that we do it again J’.

‘Yes, a lot. The ghost stories are creepy and really cool’.

‘Yeah it was great. I haven’t finished the book yet but it was great as far as I read. It was just so good and I’d say the next book will be even better’.

‘Yes!! I really liked the book and Elizabeth is really nice’.

‘Yes, I thought it was amazing and I was so sad when I heard that the second one isn’t out yet’.

‘Yes, I thought it was really good and interesting’.

‘Yes, I really enjoyed the book and the talk. She was nice’.

‘Yes, I liked it and mark it 10/10’.

‘Yes it was great. It was excellent to meet the author and her book was amazing’.

My favourite quote from a review:

“I loved this book so much that I made Lego figures of Zach and Ebony, and I don’t usually mix up my Lego figures! My mind was racing when I was reading this book, trying to piece together the clues, but I had to read to figure it out.” (Mia, aged 12)

And here’s a real treat – a surprise rat rap from Pied Piper of Hamlyn

 

 

 

Dublin UNESCO February Roundup

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And so, the Citywide Read journey continues! There have been more amazing events, plenty of laughs, and a few surprises along the way…

IMG_4214Libraries visited in February were the National Library of Ireland, Ballyfermot, Inchicore, Coolock, Ballymun, Ringsend, Rathmines, and Pearse St. Author and illustrator Oisin McGann did an illustration workshop in the Hugh Lane Gallery based on The Book of Learning, and I heard that it was fabulous (not that I expected anything less). In addition, we had a lovely event in Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre where two groups of sodden children arrived through the doors on a wild, wet day, and listened to some readings of equally wild and windy sea scenes (thanks go to Ifty Finn for organising).

IMG_4296Our book trail and Illustration session in the National Library of Ireland also had a great turn out. Part of The Book of Learning is set in this iconic building, so we purposely scheduled the event out of hours so the kids could hear a piece read in the stunning Reading Room (they’d usually be too young). The idea worked; the tiny desks and vast, domed room created the perfect backdrop -so, huge thanks go to Brid O’Sullivan for making that happen! Amazingly, some of the attendees had been to a previous UNESCO Citywide Read event and wanted to come again! How lovely is that?

A few of the wonderful surprises I received this time include a massive group hug, a pitch perfect David Attenborough impression (I was asked what I’d like to be reincarnated as, and I chose Mr Attenborough, of course!) and some rat jokes.

Events you can still attend…

There are still a few events coming up in March, including an open event in Cabra Library (March 8th at 3.30pm) and a really special event as part of the Big Day Out St Patrick’s Festival on March 20th, when a Georgian building on Merrion Square will be transformed into 23 Mercury Lane from my book! Check out www.dublincityofliterature.ie for more details and I hope to see you there!

I’d like to leave you with a few extra photos…IMG_4216 FullSizeRender (26)

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Dublin UNESCO January Roundup!

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FullSizeRender (18)And so, the Dublin UNESCO Citywide Reading Campaign has begun! As an author, these past few weeks have proved to be a really exciting time, and as a debut author, I’m still pinching myself.

Up to now there has been a photo shoot in the National Library of Ireland, and events in seven Dublin City Public Libraries – Raheny, Donaghmede, Central Library, Charleville Mall, Walkinstown, Dolphins Barn, and Marino – as well as a visit to Scoil Chiarain Special Needs School in Glasnevin. The library staff have been warm, welcoming and supportive, and the response from both teachers and pupils has been incredibly positive. Jackie from UNESCO has been a godsend, making sure the packed schedule runs smoothly, and all in all, I’m feeling really grateful to everyone involved – especially the readers.

As The Book of Learning has only been out for a few months, usually when I do events, I’m introducing myself and hoping people might like my book as I read. Imagine how different it feels walking into a room with between 30 and 60 pupils at a time engrossed in the book and full of questions! That’s more than 400 readers up to now – and you should hear how smart their questions are! Here are some of my favourites so far:

  • IMG_4142Did you ever nearly have a nervous breakdown writing a book?
  • Who is your favourite baddie?
  • If you weren’t a writer, what would you like to be?
  • If you could write a book with any other author, who would it be?
  • If you could meet any author, living or dead, who would you meet?
  • If you had a Book of Learning, what do you think you would see?

IMG_4130Reading is so important to me, and being part of a campaign that encourages reading for fun is an absolute honour. So far, the atmosphere is exactly what I hoped for; a space where we can all celebrate books and reading. We talk about what the books and authors we love and why, and what reading means to us. We reveal a few secrets, explore ideas, share our passions and laugh plenty. There are quizzes, illustration demonstrations, and games thrown into the mix – it’s all about fun and looking at books and reading from a fresh perspective.

There are lots more events coming up over the next two months, including a book trail in the National Library of Ireland, an illustration workshop with the wonderful Oisin McGann in Hugh Lane Gallery, and a really special event as part of the Big Day Out St Patrick’s Festival in March. Check out www.dublincityofliterature.ie for more details!

I’d like to leave you with a couple of surprises that I wasn’t expecting. The first is the sighting of posters on Dublin Bus – don’t they look amazing?

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And the second is the fantastic window display in Hodges Figgis Bookshop that blew me away. It’s every writer’s dream to see something like this!

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I do hope to see you at some of the events over the coming months – remember to visit www.dublincityofliterature.ie for more details on what’s happening and how you can book your space. And don’t forget to come and say hi!

Dublin UNESCO Citywide Read Launch

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Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of launching the Dublin UNESCO Citywide Read at the gorgeous National Library in Dublin – one of the city’s landmarks that feature in The Book of Learning.

I was joined by six faithful readers; Erica, Lucy, Matthew, Mia, Maia, and Abby. There was a photo shoot, a reading, and an interview for News2Day on RTE2, followed by much tea and cake. Here are a few of my favourite shots from the day…

Citywide Reading Campaign for Children 2016 #citywideread Dublin City CouncilÕs Library Service today launched details of the Citywide Reading Campaign for Children 2016. The campaign, which encourages children to read for pleasure, is run by Dublin UNESCO City of Literature and Dublin City Council Public Libraries, in partnership with Mercier Press and runs from January to March 2016. The Book of Learning by E.R. Murray has been chosen as the book for this yearÕs campaign. It is a story of mystery and adventure, which will appeal to both girls and boys of 9 years and older. There will be author visits to public libraries as well as city-centre based events to promote the campaign. Pictured from left: Lucy McKee O’ Brien aged 9 from Skerries, Mai Madden aged 12, from Collon, Co. Louth, Matthew Ward, from Yougal Cork, (right) Abby Stewart aged 10 from Skerries, Erica Brierton aged 11 from Bray Co. Wicklow and Maia Stewart, aged 11 from Skerries with author E.R. Murray. For more details please go to http://www.dublincityofliterature.ie. Picture Colm Mahady / Fennells – Copyright 2016 Fennell Photography.
Citywide Reading Campaign for Children 2016 #citywideread Dublin City CouncilÕs Library Service launched details of the Citywide Reading Campaign for Children 2016. The campaign, which encourages children to read for pleasure, is run by Dublin UNESCO City of Literature and Dublin City Council Public Libraries, in partnership with Mercier Press and runs from January to March 2016. The Book of Learning by E.R. Murray has been chosen as the book for this yearÕs campaign. It is a story of mystery and adventure, which will appeal to both girls and boys of 9 years and older. There will be author visits to public libraries as well as city-centre based events to promote the campaign. Pictured at the National Library of Ireland for the launch were: Lucy McKee O’ Brien aged 9, Abby Stewart, aged 10, both from Skerries, with Author E.R Murray. For more details please go to http://www.dublincityofliterature.ie. Picture Colm Mahady / Fennells – Copyright 2016 Fennell Photography.

2016 – starting with a bang!

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We may only be a few days into 2016, but it’s certainly kicking off with a bang!

Firstly, there’s the 24-hour #YATakeover on Twitter that starts tomorrow, and I’ll be talking Libraries in the Digital Age at 9pm alongside author Alexia Casale, hosted by Mariam Khan. The event involves over 40 hours, talking YA books for 24 hours, covering topics including mental health, LGBT issues, art, gothic fiction, friendship, fantasy and more. You can see the full #YAtakeover schedule here.

The Book of Learning is representing Dublin UNESCO City of Literature as this year’s Citywide Read for Children – and it’s starting to feel very real! Working with the lovely Jackie Lynam and Mercier Press, we’ve planned multiple school events for over 20 Dublin libraries in January, February and March, as well as open events – details to follow. Next week, I’ll be launching the campaign in the beautiful National Library of Ireland – we have the giant plastic rat (no joke), fans for a photoshoot, and a pile of posters and bookmarks all set to go.  I cant believe it’s finally here!

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In addition, I’ve been added to the list of authors blogging for the wonderful Girls Heart Books blog, which is a real honour. Watch out for my slot on the 22nd of each month.

As for writing news, Caramel Hearts is due for publication in March, and I’ve just reached over half way with my structural edits for the second in the Nine Lives Trilogy – The Book of Shadows, so it’s all systems go.

It’s a really exciting start to the year- just the way I like it! Even though I don’t do New Year’s resolutions – I think we should constantly evaluate and adapt – January is a month of beginnings, and this feels like the perfect way to start out. I had a lot to learn last year as a first-time published author, and I’m looking forward to building on that in 2016. I can’t wait to see what happens as the year goes on!

I hope you’re off to a good start too 🙂

 

 

Thank you everyone!

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the book of learning australia

That wonderful feeling, when people read your book!

2015 was a busy year and a bit of a rollercoaster, but oh so exciting; not only did my debut The Book of Learning hit the shelves, but it was also named Dublin UNESCO Citywide Read for 2016! This is a huge honour as a new author, and I’m looking forward to the many events that have been planned for next year as a result (I’ll provide more details on those in January).

In the three months since my book has been published, I’ve been lucky enough to meet many readers through the Children’s Book Festival (run by the incredible library service), as well as Dublin Book Festival, Creative Ardagh FrightFest, the CBI Conference and various school events. It’s been a dream come true and there’s nothing like getting feedback on your book – it really is the best feeling ever!

The next book to be published, March 2016

The next book to be published, March 2016

Two more books have already been delivered to their respective publishers, and so there’s plenty more to come. But I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the part they’ve played in making my first year as a published author so special.

To everyone who bought my book, reviewed my book on goodreads or amazon or their website, attended a launch, sent kind words of encouragement or feedback, gave heartfelt advice or simply a hug when I looked tired, thank you so much. I couldn’t have done it without you.

And for those of you seeking a book deal -whatever you’re writing, keep going. I know you’ll get there, and it will be worth the slog.

 

 

Cover Reveal: Caramel Hearts

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I’m delighted to reveal the cover of my next book, Caramel Hearts; it’s my young adult debut, published by Alma Books in March 2016.

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This novel is about a girl with an alcoholic mum – there are real cake recipes throughout, and given the name, I was terrified the cover would end up pink, glittery and full of cupcakes. This wouldn’t have suited suited the story, characters, or the author – but there’s an art and agenda to cover design, often driven by sales, so sometimes the story and the cover don’t match.

Thankfully, I’m delighted with this design by Jem Butcher – I hope you love it as much as I do!