Tatyana Feeney – illustratör

A gorgeous short story from the collection, BEYOND THE STARS, written and illustrated by two great Irish talents in children’s fiction todayAs battle rages beyond the castle walls and soldiers fall like flies, the king despairs. His kingdom is crumbling around him, and he has lost his fighting spirit. His people know that without that, they will surely lose the war.While the bombs fall and arrows rain down, a black cat wanders silently amongst them, invisible but for her footprints in the snow. Only she may pass unnoticed through the deserted courtyards and along the empty corridors and snow-covered battlements of the once-bustling palace. For she has taken a silent vow to protect the princess who once saved her from drowning as a kitten. Watching her at play, lonely as can be, the cat knows she can never abandon her charge; she must help her and the young prince find each other, even if she is the last one remaining.A beautifully crafted tale by a highly regarded author with delicate illustrations to match by one of Ireland’s rising stars.

Freya lives in a castle where she has everything a girl could want - loving parents, loads of books AND marshmallows. But what she really wants is a dragon ... to slay. Freya doesn't understand why it's always knights who get to be brave, bold dragon slayers, so one morning she decides to go and slay one for herself. Unbeknownst to her, a dragon, tired of a steady diet of too-crunchy knights, happens to be looking for a sweet and tender girl to eat. Surely, when the two come face to face, a mighty battle will ensue! Or will it? This charming picture book by CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal-nominee Tatyana Feeney features a strong, independent heroine with a kind heart. Humorously defying expectations, Freya teaches readers about courage, friendship and following your own path in life.