“He embodies childhood fun” – New children’s book to inspire children to see the magic in ordinary life
20 August 2026: Later this month, local author Cherry Jordan, will launch her new book, Johnny Hedgehog and the Summer Holidays. The book follows a nine-year-old boy as he embarks on an adventure during his school holidays, and how he connects with people from different generations. The book is being launched in partnership with Barnardos, with all author profits being donated to the children’s charity.
Cherry Jordan is from Knocklyon and a lecturer in Early Childcare in the Tallaght campus of TU Dublin. The book is aimed at 6-10 year-olds and teaches children about the magic of ordinary life. The story is inspired by the stories Cherry told her own children, and she hopes other children will be just as captivated by the adventures of Johnny Hedgehog.
Cherry explains what inspired her to write the book; “I wrote this book with the intention of the proceeds going to charity, and when I finished it, I became aware of what the lead character achieves. Johnny Hedgehog engages with the world, he cares a lot about people, and he really connects with the people around him. He embodies the childhood fun and freedom that all children deserve. Everyone who came in to contact with Johnny benefitted in some way from their experience.
When I noticed this, I felt strongly that Barnardos were the charity I wanted to partner with. Barnardos in a much greater way do the same thing, they care about and connect with children and families and support them, especially families who have not had an easy road to travel. Through their work Barnardos recognise that childhood is precious and supporting families is key to supporting children.
Writing this book has changed how I look at things because I had to write through the eyes of a nine-year-old boy with a passion for life, his enthusiasm for what can be possible has been infectious. I now look at things and think what would Johnny Hedgehog do in this situation?
For example, I was out walking yesterday and I passed a low hanging branch of a tree, normally I would just walk right past it but when I was thinking like Johnny Hedgehog, I felt an urge to jump up and high five it! Johnny keeps reminding me to look at the world and enjoy it more!
I would love his book to do great things for Barnardos and all the children and families they support”.
Alison Kelly, Head of Events at Barnardos said; “We are incredibly grateful to Cherry for her generosity in selecting Barnardos as her charity partner. Johnny Hedgehog beautifully captures the magic and fun that every child deserves, and the funds raised from Cherry’s gorgeous book will directly help us to support vulnerable children and families across Ireland to ensure they too can have the childhood they deserve. Because childhood lasts a lifetime.”
The book launch will take place on Saturday, 29th of August at 12 noon in the Park Community Centre, Ballycullen. People of all ages are invited to the event which will involve a book reading, arts & crafts, tea & coffee and some treats for the children.
About Barnardos
Barnardos’ mission is to deliver services and work with families, communities, and our partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences. Because childhood lasts a lifetime www.barnardos.ie
For further information, please contact:
Barnardos Press Office: 086 0445966
Facebook: barnardosireland
Instagram: @barnardos_irl
