Great success and support for Patrick Doherty's book launch in Longford Library

The launch of ‘Pure Innocent Boy’ which took place in Longford Library on Tuesday, October 7 was an example of Longford’s support for the success of its own people. Killoe’s Patrick Doherty received a crowd of various ages, with people having to stand as the turn-out was much bigger than the seats provided on the night.

Taking place between 7pm to 8pm, the evening began with book signings and photographs. Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Garry Murtagh was present, as was Cllr Gerry Hagan. Cllr Murtagh gave the official welcome speech.

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“You are all very welcome this evening. It’s great to have you here to promote this local author. Paddy’s book is published by Dedalus Press. Longford County Council is delighted to support him.”

Patrick was recounted to be a Killoe GAA defender but now plays in Spain, and how he loved reading and writing. Both he and his classmate from St Teresa’s National School, John Connell, were said to have been inspired by their principal, Colm Harte. Both men have become authors.

“Patrick is true and true Longford,” was what was said about him, as well as being an advocate for the library.

Not only known in Longford, it was added that he had been shortlisted for a Hennessy Award. Patrick has also been nominated for the PJ O'Connor Radio Drama Awards.

Following these speeches, Eric Lane, from Dedalus Press UK, was present for this launch. He stood to give some words to the attendees.

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“Thank you for coming. We agreed to have a launch and Patrick said he’d like an event in Longford. We have lots of events in Ireland, the UK, Europe and the world. I’ve never been to one with so much community and belonging.

“I always say nearly everything we get is no. It has to have very good, believable characters. This book, you care. What I found very moving was that the main character has a few problems but things come out right. You get a sense of tragedy. For me, what makes this book compelling is a tragedy which wasn’t meant to happen. I think it’s a sense of feeling that makes this a powerful book. I’m very proud that we published it. Patrick Doherty has a big career ahead of him.”

After a round of applause, Patrick himself stood to make a speech. Although his wife, Despi, and their two daughters were unable to attend, there were members of his family on the front rows cheering him on.

“I’d like to thank everyone for coming. I wasn’t expecting this. I thank Fiona and Martina from Longford Library. I’d also like to thank Barry from Newsround. I’m very lucky and privileged to have grown up in my community. I went to St Teresa’s National School. In St Mel’s, there were teachers who encouraged me. I’d lie to thank the Yew Tree Players for bringing culture into Killoe.”

He went on to thank his family, including his Auntie Jean and Auntie Ann for always being supportive. He then thanked his siblings: Shane, Orla, Laura, Marie and Aoife. He added that his sister, Laura, inspired ‘all of us.’ Then he thanked his wife and children for making it all worthwhile.

Afterwards, he thanked Eric and Marie from Dedalus Press.

“‘I appreciate being given the opportunity,” he said.

With applause in support of his speech, Patrick proceeded to read an excerpt from ‘Pure Innocent Boy.’ He selected Tadhg’s entry from ‘23rd December 2018’.

The reading, roughly five minutes, made the library silent as they enjoyed the story. The book, complimented for its length, brought smiles and interest among the crowd, to which many had purchased on the night.

To complete the launch, there was a small Q & A session for members of the audience to ask about the work. One of the questions was where the idea came from. Patrick responded with:

“Seven or eight years ago, it was a short story which is basically the first or second chapter. I found Tadhg was a clear voice to me.”

He added that lockdown, between 2020 and 2021, was the perfect time to begin writing.

With the speeches done, people lined up to have their books signed, to chat and have a photograph with the much-loved Killoe man.

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‘Pure Innocent Boy’ is available to borrow in Longford Library, as well as being in other outlets to purchase.

Following this event, Patrick Doherty headed to Hodges and Figgis in Dublin, Dawson’s Street, for another launch on October 8, which began at 6pm. The tour ended in finishing up Leaf & Bower, Ballincollig, Co, Cork on October 9.

A great achievement, Patrick expanded the talent coming from Longford, which has been fostered since a young age.