A beautiful GAA and Christmas themed story -- RTE.ie a lot of fun. A reworking of the most famous Christmas poem of them all, it's set in Croke Park and illustrated by Brian Fitzgerald -- Irish Times - Malachy Clerkins best sports books of the year This GAA-themed retelling of the Christmas classic Twas the Night Before Christmas is an ideal gift for sports-mad kids -- Irish Examiner This festive twist on the classic Christmas tale and famous Clement C. Moore poem is a fantastic pick for young readers with a love of sport -- Irish Farmers Journal's Gift Guide This fun take on the classic Night Before Christmas bounds along with energy and humour and is sure to bring smiles to the faces of football fans young and old. Weve loved the bouncy rhythm and silly antics in this story, as well as the humorous illustrations! -- Milo and Gigis Bookshelf Julianne McKeigue's whimsical retelling of the classic Christmas Eve tale invites readers into a magical world where the familiar meets the unexpected, all told in the same charming style and rhythm as The Night Before Christmas. As the story unfolds on a quiet night in Croke Park, the anticipation builds with each turn of the page Brian Fitzgerald's illustrations are vibrant and lively, capturing the spirit of Christmas and the excitement of a football match. The expressive characters and dynamic scenes leap off the page, drawing readers into the festive atmosphere. This charming book is perfect for families to enjoy together during the holiday season. Its playful twist on the traditional Christmas story, combined with stunning artwork, makes it a wonderful addition to any child's library. Twas the Match Before Christmas is sure to spark joy and laughter, creating lasting memories as children dream of their own magical Christmas adventures -- Read & Reviews McKeigue's retelling of a much-loved Christmas classic fused with a well-known landmark in Irish sport is a winning formula -- Irish Examiner this book is sure to be a hit with young sports fans who no doubt will be looking for hoof-prints in the goalmouth the next time they visit Páirc an Chrócaigh -- RTEjrs Book Club A retelling of the classic Christmas poem by Clement Clarke Moore with a GAA twist and lively, child-friendly illustrations -- Irish Independent a winner festive flight of fancy -- Irish Examiner a Christmas cracker and the best GAA book out there for kids age 0-4 -- Irish Sun will enrapture the under eights sumptuously illustrated -- Irish Daily Mail
