Séamus Almost Famous

About this book

Séamus Murphy is fed up with being the only person in his family who is not famous: his mum is an award-winning baker, his dad is a champion speed eater, his brother Mark wins everything, his little sister has gone viral, and even Smarties the dog finds fame when he discovers a bag of stolen money in a rubbish truck.   

Determined to turn his fortunes around, Séamus enlists the help of his best friend Dara to help catapult him to instant stardom – they just need to figure out what he’s good at. Taking a “fake it till you make it” approach, Dara hires a Karl, an intimidating bodyguard, to accompany Séamus everywhere and give the impression that he’s already a star who needs protection. With Dara and Karl’s unwavering support, Séamus tries out a variety of activities, from stand-up comedy to bog racing, in his increasingly desperate mission to become a celebrity.  

Set in County Kilkenny, Ireland, this hilarious illustrated chapter book for junior readers is packed with laugh-out-loud moments. The characters are hugely entertaining and Séamus’ relationship with his dysfunctional family is both funny and moving.