Book Launch

5 November 2024 at 6.30pm

The James Joyce Centre was proud to host the book lauch of Classroom Hero by David Graham on Tuesday, 5 November 2024 at 6.30pm.

Classroom Hero is the story of one boy’s quest to fit in – in a world that makes him stand out. Fionn is often made to sit on his own at school, but he does not understand why. Now in second class, he spends more time alone than ever. He is the only pupil who is not making his communion. A school visitor calls him a ‘classroom hero’, and everything seems to make sense. When Fionn sees his classmate Sophie being bullied, he comes to her rescue and a close friendship is born. But he is still not treated the same as the other children.

“Tender, engaging and insightful.” Fintan O’Toole, The Irish Times

David Graham is a parent and campaigner for equality in Irish education. He has written about the controversial role of religion in schools across the print and online media for many years and is a regular guest on the topic on Irish radio. He has advocated tirelessly in favour of a truly inclusive education system that treats all children with equal respect, regardless of their faith or belief background. Classroom Hero offers a child’s-eye view of the pervasive impact of religious patronage on Irish schools, and of the experience of ‘opting out’.

For online sales and other information, see www.classroomhero.ie.

The James Joyce Centre is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.