Finn's First Song
Squeeeak ... Thwop ... Thwop ... Dwoooooerrrp!
Dad sings his magical whale songs to Mum and baby Finn, far, far away across the huge ocean.
When Finn gets lost, can the other sea creatures help him to send a message of his own?
This is the first book that I have written and also illustrated.
Published in Ireland by O'Brien Press, and by Boulder Books in Canada.
Available wherever books are sold.
“The gentle, episodic story and bold illustrations bring a distinct personality to the seabed while introducing young readers to memorable facts about how sea creatures communicate ... Be warned, however: it is the wonderful whoop and whirring whale song that young readers will want to imitate.”
“A glorious book.”
“Finn’s First Song will captivate young readers ... Packed full of bright, charming illustrations of friendly sea creatures and fascinating whale facts, this book is an uplifting story that will be enjoyed by readers of all ages.”
“It’s so much fun to read out loud … can make it really interactive … every page is beautifully illustrated, it’s all filled with a vast array of sea animals, there’s a very subtle environmental message.”
“A real treat ... Young readers will relate to Finn and will want to read more of his ocean adventures.”
“The vivid illustrations pull the reader in to Finn’s ocean home from the get-go ... Daly cleverly weaves big themes into this story, as Finn learns to find his own voice. While Daly’s story is not focused on the impact humans have on the environment, elements of the story and its illustrations touch on this theme.”
“A gorgeous book for readers up to the age of seven ... Beautifully imagined, it will give your little ones a new appreciation of the magic of the sea.”
“Young readers learn all about how sea creatures communicate in a fun story full of interesting facts. Good for discussions about the importance of looking after our seas too.”
“Finn summons all his power to let out a sound sequence rarely if ever seen in print. "Thwop! Thwop! whoop, whoop, whoop, Dwooooooerp!" goes his first whale song - and if that doesn't inspire some expressive sound effects from the adults reading this book aloud to children, then nothing ever will.”
“This would be a great one for reading aloud ... Expect magical whale songs (make your own sound effects) and underwater family drama.”
“The rich, bright colours offer an enchanting view of the ocean that is animated, but has an amazing attention to detail. The entire cast of charming characters are imaginative, heart-warming and completely engaging, making this lovely new animal adventure book a real winner. Perfect for home or classroom. Read it! Share it! It’s just wonderful!”
“A gorgeous new picture book adventure with charming underwater scenes and beautiful characters”
“The story tells you about different types of fish and what makes each one different ... I really liked all of the different pictures through the book. I give this book 10 out 10 and my little sister Kate really liked it too.”
“Bold and colourful, this is an underwater adventure that will warm the cockles... Absolutely delightful and the illustrations are gorgeous.”
Activity sheets are available to download here.
You can draw along with step by step drawing videos here.
I read some of 'Finn's First Song' and give a peek behind the scenes of the book here.
You can read more about the making of the book in this blogpost for The O'Brien Press, and in this one for Dubray books.
Upcoming visits to bookshops, schools, libraries and festivals will be listed on my events page.
'Finn's First Song' was featured on RTE's Home School Hub for English reading class with Múinteoir Ray.
