Seeing one of Ireland leading children’s authors on a terrorism arrest list is more than jarring.
But Chris Haughton, who has been arrested in London twice for taking part in Palestine Action street protests, sees taking a stance against limitations on free speech as being the necessary action of a writer.
Palestine Action was put on the list of proscribed terrorist organisations by the UK government in 2025. A legal case fighting that designation has now reached the UK’s Supreme Court.
His books, which include Little Owl Lost; Don’t Worry, Little Crab; Mommy Penguin, and Sssh! We have a Plan are as beloved by parents as they are by young children.
In a wide-ranging interview, Haughton talks about his path to becoming an award-winning children’s book author and illustrator; explains why the war in Gaza has left him unable to write; why he is sharing his royalties with author Sally Rooney, why he fully supports Palestine Action in its intent on stopping the export of military equipment to Israel for its war in Gaza, and how his arrests and activism impact on his role as the current Laureate na nÓg.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon.
