TU Dublin Lecturer Cherry Jordan Launches First Children’s Book Supporting Barnardos
TU Dublin lecturer Cherry Jordan, who lectures in Early Childhood Education & Care and Social Care at the University’s Tallaght Campus, has launched her first children’s book, Johnny Hedgehog and the Summer Holidays – an adventure story that encourages children to discover the magic in ordinary life. All author profits from the book will be donated to Barnardos.
Aimed at children aged six to ten, Johnny Hedgehog and the Summer Holidays follows nine-year-old Johnny as he enjoys his school holidays with his family on the island of Innisfree. When Johnny discovers a message in a bottle, his holiday becomes an unexpected adventure as he embarks on an island-wide treasure hunt.
With the help of friendly local people, Johnny solves clues, discovers treasure, makes the local newspaper and leaves a new map behind. Along the way, he connects with people from different generations, demonstrating the importance of curiosity, community and relationships.
The story was inspired by the stories Cherry told her own children and reflects her professional interest in child development and the importance of play and fun in childhood.
“I wrote this book with the intention of the proceeds going to charity, and when I finished it, I became aware of what the lead character achieves,” Cherry explains. “Johnny Hedgehog engages with the world, he cares a lot about people, and he really connects with the people around him. He embodies the childhood fun and freedom that all children deserve. Everyone who came in contact with Johnny benefited in some way from their experience.”
Cherry felt that Barnardos was a natural charity partner for the book, recognising a shared focus on supporting children and families.
“When I noticed this, I felt strongly that Barnardos was the charity I wanted to partner with. Barnardos in a much greater way do the same thing, they care about and connect with children and families and support them, especially families who have not had an easy road to travel. Through their work Barnardos recognise that childhood is precious and supporting families is key to supporting children.”
Alison Kelly, Head of Events at Barnardos, welcomed Cherry’s support, saying:
“We are incredibly grateful to Cherry for her generosity in selecting Barnardos as her charity partner. Johnny Hedgehog beautifully captures the magic and fun that every child deserves, and the funds raised from Cherry’s gorgeous book will directly help us to support vulnerable children and families across Ireland to ensure they too can have the childhood they deserve. Because childhood lasts a lifetime.”
The book is the first in a planned series of Johnny Hedgehog adventures by Cherry and is available to order for €10.