Illustrating Ireland’s Young Storytellers with Specsavers & An Post

I’m absolutely delighted to share one of my favourite annual projects and one that celebrates creativity across Ireland. I’ve once again been invited to create the artwork for the Specsavers Short Story Competition in partnership with the An Post Book Awards. As an illustrator based in Ireland, it’s an honour to be involved in a competition that inspires young writers and celebrates storytelling.

This collaboration is something I have looked forward to all year, and I’m thrilled to say that, just like last year, I’ll also be illustrating the winning stories. Bringing children’s words to life through illustration is sooooo rewarding!

About This Year’s Competition

The competition is now open, and it’s designed to spark imagination in young writers. Entrants are invited to finish this story starter:

“I looked around my new classroom, at the letters, the map, and numbers on the wall — then I saw it, the teacher’s secret cupboard tucked away behind my desk. There was a weird noise coming from it, so I slipped off my chair and went to investigate…”

It’s a brilliant prompt that encourages creativity, character building, and curiosity — and I can’t wait to see where young imaginations take it.

How to Enter

• Using this link to Specsavers

• Stories should be no more than 500 words (250 is also perfect!)

• Give your story a title

• Write or type it on an A4 page

• Submit via the online form or send it by post

• Teachers can submit group entries from schools across Ireland

Deadline: Wednesday, 7th January 2026

BTS - The Work in Progress

As an illustrator in Ireland, collaborating with Specsavers and the An Post Book Awards allows me to promote creativity for children and hopefully encouraging the next generation of storytellers. Reading the children’s winning stories and bringing them to life through illustrations is something truly special.

Being part of that journey for another year, is both a privilege and a joy! I'm excited to see what stories they will come my way

Linda x