My Journey as a Young Author and Illustrator by Danny Lawlor
In this heartwarming blog post, twelve-year-old Danny Lawlor takes us through his creative journey as a young author and illustrator.
From his earliest memories of drawing and storytelling in Listowel to publishing his first book, The Night of the Full Moon, Danny reflects on the experiences and people that have shaped his passion.
He shares his gratitude for the support he’s received from his community, including the invaluable workshops at Kerry Writers’ Museum, which helped him bring his ideas to life.
Danny’s story is an inspiring reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of mentorship in nurturing young talent.
Danny Lawlor, Author. Photo Credit: Daria Piaseczna, Facebook @dariphotographer.
One of the biggest steps in my creative journey happened when I started working on my first book, ‘The Night of the Full Moon’. My friend Leo Morkan and I first came up with ideas for the story while we were at our childminder’s house. Later, I got the chance to really develop it during the Fighting Words workshop where I met artist and art teacher Louise Lynch. That workshop gave me the confidence to turn my ideas into something real, and eventually, I had a full story ready to go!
Danny Lawlor and his number one fans – Mom Marguerite, Dad Dermot and sister Hannah. Photo Credit: Kerry Writers’ Museum.
When my book was published in 2023, I was so excited to launch it in Kerry Writers’ Museum. Seeing my book come to life and sharing it with everyone was an unforgettable experience. Some incredible people came to the launch, like poets Gabriel Fitzmaurice and Matt Mooney, fellow author Billy Keane, storyteller Godfrey Coppinger, and Joe Murphy, the former Artistic Director of St. John’s Theatre, who had really kind words to say about my book. Then, Niall Breslin — Bressie himself — posted a video talking about my book, which was absolutely amazing!
Danny Lawlor signing copies of Christmas Comeback at his book launch in Kerry Writers’ Museum. Photo Credit: Kerry Writers’ Museum.
My connection with Kerry Writers’ Museum didn’t stop there. I got to take part in Little Artists’ Listowel, an amazing programme run by Louise Lynch, where kids like me get to explore our creativity. Louise also gave me the opportunity to teach my very first illustration workshop for kids at the Listowel Visual Artists’ Collective pop-up shop last year. It was such a great experience to share what I’ve learned with other young artists!
Danny Lawlor and artist Louise Lynch. Photo Credit: Listowel Visual Artists’ Collective.
After “The Night of the Full Moon”, I knew I wanted to keep writing and drawing. My second book, ‘Christmas Comeback’, takes my characters on another exciting adventure — this time, with a Christmas twist! Thanks to publisher Jeremy Murphy and his brilliant team, I was able to bring this new story to life.
Jeremy Murphy, JM Agency, Listowel with Danny Lawlor and family. Photo Credit: Kerry Writers’ Museum.
I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me —my friend Leo for helping shape the early drafts of both books, Brenda Woulfe of Woulfe’s Bookshop for pointing me in the right direction for publishing, and of course, my family for always encouraging me.
Kerry Writers’ Museum and Louise Lynch’s workshops have played such a huge role in my creative journey. I’ve learned so much, met amazing people, and had opportunities I never thought possible. I can’t wait to keep writing, illustrating, and sharing my stories with the world!
“The Night of the Full Moon” and “Christmas Comeback” are available in Kerry Writers’ Museum and Woulfe’s Bookshop in Listowel.
Photo Credit for Main Cover Image: Daria Piaseczna, Facebook @dariphotographer.