Specsavers Children’s Short Story Competition 2025
As part of the Specsavers Children’s Short Story Competition at the An Post Irish Book Awards 2025, I had the joy of illustrating the winning stories from both the Junior and Senior categories. As part of their prize, winners Lina and Ava saw their words transformed into fully illustrated books — their characters and imagined worlds brought to life through my drawings. It was a real pleasure to step into their stories and create something tangible for them, and even more special to see their delight at holding their stories in their hands, illustrated just for them.
Junior Winner
“Dreamland” written by Lina Ayala
Senior Winner
“Dr Scoundrel and the Dragon Gems” written by Ava Hickey
Unforgettable storytelling through illustration
Unforgettable storytelling through illustration
Specsavers Children’s Short Story Competition 2025 winners Lina and Ava receiving their illustrated books
presented by Georgie Crawford.
The Specsavers Children’s Short Story Competition 2025 celebrates young imaginations, and it was such a joy to see the winners, Lina and Ava, receive their illustrated storybooks. Presented by brand and competition ambassador Georgie Crawford, the children’s delight as they held their prizes perfectly captured the magic of this award — stories brought to life and treasured for years to come.
Have I sparked a sense of wonder?
If you’d love to bring a little whimsy to your next project, I’d love to collaborate.
Kind words from lovely clients
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“Worked with Linda on many brand events- always a pleasure to deal with and a favourite among guests. Would recommend her for any event.”
Alison, The Publicity Loft
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“I've worked with Linda twice to commission an original piece of artwork for the Irish Examiner's Weekend magazine. She is a joy to work with and supremely talented. Works were completed to strict timelines, and we were delighted with both. Couldn't recommend her more.”
Nicole, Irish Examiner
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“We at National Beauty have worked with Linda on a few occasions now, and could not recommend her more! She is hugely talented, professional and very accommodating for any event. Would highly recommend.”
Niamh, National Beauty
