Acair are excited to share details of their next publication which will be available from 31.03.2025. Ailig agus an Dalek Gàidhlig has been written by Shelagh Campbell and is her first children’s title.
Ailig is an 8-year-old boy who loves Dr Who. When his teacher arranges a Halloween party in school, Ailig knows that he wants to dress up as a Dalek. There’s only one problem though – his teacher says that the children must dress up as characters who speak Gaelic. Ailig’s mum offers to make him a Spàgan costume (Spàgan is the Gaelic translation of the ‘Monster’ books) but he is determined to go as a Dalek. They reach a compromise – if Ailig can find a Gaelic word for ‘Exterminate’ his mum will let him go to the party as a Dalek.
With full-colour illustrations by Merrill MacWilliam, this adventure story is both exciting and humorous and is sure to be enjoyed by many.
A series of events will take place across schools in Lewis with Shelagh visiting and discussing her new book with pupils on 24th and 25th April before holding the official launch event on Saturday 26th April at 11am at Stornoway Library. A warm welcome awaits all! Further events will take place in Glasgow over the coming months and information will be shared in due course.
Shelagh Campbell, author, said: “I can’t wait to see Ailig agus an Dalek Gàidhlig in print – I really enjoyed writing it and the wonderful illustrations by Merrill MacWilliam bring the story to life. I’m delighted that it will be published by Acair, who have done a fantastic job, and it will be great to launch it in Stornoway, and to visit schools and libraries in April.”
Angus Morrison, Acair Manager, said: “We are very much looking forward to publishing Ailig agus an Dalek Gàidhlig! We know that children are keen to see new Gaelic originations published and we also know the appeal of Daleks! Shelagh has written a fantastic book and we’re certain that it will be enjoyed by many children, and even adults!”
Acair are grateful to Bòrd na Gàidhlig, The Gaelic Books Council and the Outer Hebrides Community Led Local Development Youth Local Action Group (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) for their support and funding.
Ailig agus an Dalek Gàidhlig, 80 pages, Paperback, Acair, £7.95