The Secret of Kells: The Graphic Novel

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

Inspired by Celtic folklore and based on the award-winning film The Secret of Kells, this stunning conclusion to the Irish Folklore Trilogy is about a brave boy, his mystical new friend, and the power of imagination against even the darkest of forces. Includes two bonus stories from the film’s creator.

In the remote Abbey of Kells lives a young monk named Brendan. Brendan and his fellow monks spend their days isolated from the outside world, toiling away under the strict control of Brendan’s uncle to build walls that fend off the Vikings. Everything changes when a master illuminator arrives with an extraordinary book containing secret powers. But the book is unfinished, and Brendan’s help is needed. As he sets off on a thrilling adventure through the enchanted woods, Brendan encounters wicked creatures lurking in the shadows—but also new friends. With the help of the bold fairy Aisling, can Brendan finish the ancient book and cast light over Kells?

This bewitching origin story of the legendary Book of Kells features two additional stories written and illustrated by Tomm Moore.

About the Author

Tomm Moore is the cofounder and creative director of Cartoon Saloon. He directed Song of the Sea and codirected The Secret of Kells and Wolfwalkers, all of which were nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Series.Samuel Sattin is an author and coffee addict. He penned the graphic novel adaptions of Cartoon Saloon’s Academy Award-nominated Irish Folklore Trilogy. He is also the author of Unico: Awakening, the first book in a manga series that reimagines Osamu Tezuka’s classic character. Samuel’s other works include Bezkamp and The Silent End. He graduated with an MFA in comics from California College of the Arts and an MFA in creative writing from Mills College.