Offaly woman's artwork shines in heartfelt tribute book

A new children’s book created in Offaly and Westmeath is capturing hearts with its blend of playful storytelling and heartfelt tribute.

Annabel’s Adventures at the Beach, written by Delvin mother and teacher Eileen Loughlin and illustrated and product designed by Tullamore author and illustrator Julie-Ann Carroll, was launched last week in Mullingar.

The story follows a family on a seaside outing filled with sunshine, sandcastles, laughter, and even the surprise of blue ice creams.

While the book brims with the fun of a day by the sea, it carries a special significance. Eileen wrote it in memory of her daughter Annabel, who passed away in 2018, as a way to honour her life and share her joyful spirit with others.

Julie-Ann, who previously published her own children’s well-being picture book Our Super Teacher, said working on the project was a privilege.

“This book has been created with so much love. Every illustration was drawn with Annabel in mind, and it has been an honour to help Eileen bring her vision to life,” said the Blueball woman.

Balancing her teaching career and family life, Julie-Ann often works on her illustrations in the evenings.

She says this project has been particularly meaningful, blending her passion for art with the chance to create something that celebrates love, memory, and childhood wonder.

The launch event brought together family, friends, and supporters. Children enjoyed face painting, colouring activities, and decorations featuring characters from the book, while sweet treats—including cupcakes with Annabel’s illustration and, fittingly, blue ice creams—added to the celebration.

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Annabel’s Adventures at the Beach is more than just a children’s picture book. It is a story of fun and imagination, but also a touching tribute to Annabel’s memory and the love that continues to surround her.

Eileen Loughlin (pictured on left below with Julie-Ann) is a primary school teacher based in Delvin, Co Westmeath who also works as a digital creator.

Julie-Ann Carroll, also a primary teacher teacher, has three children. She provided the artwork, editing, and production design for the new book. More of Julie-Ann's work can be seen at www.julieanncarroll.ie.

Copies of Annabel’s Adventures at the Beach can be ordered online at www.annabelsadventure.com

Readers can also connect with the creators through their instagram pages: @julieanncarrollauthor and @everything.eileen

Five per cent of the net proceeds of the book will be donated to The Children’s Health Foundation Ireland (Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght and Connolly).