Former All-Ireland winning hurler pens childrens GAA book entitled ‘Up in the Air’

Former All-Ireland winner Paddy Stapleton has written a children’s GAA book entitled ‘Up in the Air’ which details the story of main character Fitzy.

Up In The Air is a whirlwind journey through a season in the life of Glenstown and their best player Fitzy. While he and his teammates attempt to navigate their way through the county championship they have to deal with a variety of obstacles including some rough and tough opponents, a couple of dangerous injuries, and worst of all a star player that is rumoured to be joining a rival team. All of the twists and turns threaten to throw Fitzy’s dream of lifting the county championship Up In The Air!

Secondary school teacher Stapleton was inspired to write the book with a gap in the market for a children’s GAA book.

“Being a second-level teacher means I see how kids struggle to maintain balance in a world filled with scrutiny and pressure, be it from peers, adults, coaches, teachers or social media. Through Fitzy and his friends, Up In The Air shows children that no matter how perfect other people’s lives seem, there are always struggles, but you can get through them if you persevere.

“As a child that struggled with literacy, being exposed to topics I enjoyed started me on a journey to expand my reading skills. I wanted to produce an Irish book for Irish kids! Sports were my obsession as a child, and providing a story that resonates with the modern-day kid was a huge motivation for me.”

The book is available at Stapleton’s website and is a perfect stocking filler.

Buy ‘Up in the Air’