And while we're on the subject of admiration, I was pleased to hear that Siobhan Parkinson has been named Children's Laureate of Ireland. I can't claim to be a life long fan, as I've only read one of her books.  But if you haven't read Something Invisible, or at least given it to your favourite eleven-year-old, you should. It's a quiet, intelligent, sensitive read (I know, weird, huh?). Didn't make a huge splash when it came out, but then, it's not a splashy kind of read.

Give or take a few fish.

P.s.  Nice cover too, if you can find the hardback.