on a Literary missioN!

They fought for more than just the sake of fighting. They fought for a higher purpose. In lines of verse, they celebrated their victories, mourned their losses, and sought deeper meaning in the struggles and sacrifices they had faced. Of course, being a warrior-poet isn’t limited to just poetry. It can include art, music, literature, you name it. 

I am carrying on this legacy with the stories I write. In each one, I chronicle the journey my main character takes. I want my readers to support him or her in their struggles, celebrate their victories, and learn what the main character’s have learned through their struggles and sacrifices.

But why write fantasy? 

Because I have always loved reading fantasy. I have always enjoyed the escape of fantasy, the possibility of leaving this dull, miserable world behind for something grander, where everything and anything is possible. It is the home of dreamers and outsiders who don’t feel at home in the ‘normal world” and know they are destined for epic adventures and great deeds.

I have chosen to focus on Irish myth and folklore, because I feel a strong connection to the material. I hope to honor my heritage and introduce readers to an exciting new world of gods, monsters, and fighting men.

Why write for middle grade and young adult readers? 

Probably because these are years where we undergo some of our most profound growth experiences. My characters, just like my readers, are discovering who they are – not just among their families and friends but in the world at large. It’s a frustrating and potentially heartbreaking time, and I know from experience that the right book at the right time can make a huge difference in a person’s life.

I don’t think my stories are limited to just young readers. Many adults have enjoyed them too. There is a quote by C.S. Lewis that I adore. In it, he states that any children’s book that cannot be enjoyed by adults is a bad children’s book. I wholeheartedly agree. 

A good story is a good story.

That is the mission I have chosen to undertake, to write good stories. Fantasy stories that allow my readers to step out of their everyday world and meet magical, supernatural characters who are still very human at their core. And stories that center on younger characters but have something to say to any reader of any age. 

Here’s to writing good stories!

Dan O’Mahony