GIRLS WHO SLAY MONSTERS
Daring Tales of Ireland’s Forgotten Goddesses
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Unsung stories from ancient Irish myths re-imagined for nine to twelve-year olds
There was a time when tales of Ireland’s mythical goddesses – their astonishing powers, bravery, and unbreakable bonds with nature – were famous, in Ireland and beyond. But over time, these stories were lost, often replaced or rewritten to make room for male warriors and kings.
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Until Now.
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Girls Who Slay Monsters brings these heroes of Irish mythology back to vibrant, magical life. From Éire, Ireland’s fierce namesake, and Bé Binn, a giant who overcame her bullies, to Badb, a gleefully gruesome death prophet, and Bé Mannair, a gender-fluid spy who challenged an entire army. These are goddesses of many shapes, skin shades and sizes, from every corner of ancient Ireland, whose daring still inspires today.
Stand by their sides as they wield magic, fight monsters, and protect the powerless – and you might just discover that you, too, are a force of nature.
WINNER KPMG Book of the Year - Children’s Books Ireland Awards
GODS DON'T CRY
Unsung Stories of Ireland’s Forgotten Immortals.
Ancient stories that challenge modern notions of what it means to be a hero.
The ancient gods of Ireland were once worshipped throughout the land. Powerful and brave, they were unafraid to show their vulnerability, reject violence, or lean on others for support. Sadly, their stories – passed down by our ancestors – are all but forgotten.
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Gods Don’t Cry reawakens these gods, whose ancient tales redefine modern ideas of what it means to be a hero. From Mannanán, who uses his neurodiversity to discover the Otherworld, to Méiche, who finds the courage to accept his illness, Fer Maisse, a monster slayer who gives up glory to become a healer, and Cnú Deróil, who overcomes bullies with his musical talent. Hurlers and warriors, academics, and activists – these are gods of many abilities, sizes, and skin shades, from every corner of Ireland.
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Follow their adventures as they perform magic, battle demons, overcome struggles and find the courage to be true to themselves. You might even see yourself in their stories and discover, that you too, are a hero.
THEY CALLED US WITCH
​Harper Fire is ‘thrilled to announce’ the acquisition of narrative non-fiction They Called Us Witch by Ellen Ryan. Coming autumn 2026!
Publishing in hardback in September 2026, and illustrated by the powerfully talented Imogen Oh and Anastasia Stefurak, They Called Us Witch will reveal ten narratives of women who shaped their cultures and inspired change through their magic and wisdom. It will be the first non-fiction title on the Harper Fire imprint. It is intended for teen and YA readers.
True stories. True magic. Discover the untold stories of powerful women who have been labelled as witches throughout history—not the kind that ride broomsticks, but real priestesses, wise women, and healers who defied oppression.
From a Haitian Vodou priestess who fought for freedom, and an Irish wise-woman who healed the hungry during a famine, to a Japanese shaman-queen who brought peace to her land. This collection invites readers to connect with their global histories and culture through powerful narratives.
Celebrate these daughters of magic—each story a spark that ignites our own power.