The Vanishing Lake

Description

Winner of the 2021 Independent Publisher Book Award (IPPY Gold Medal) for Best Children’s Picture Book

The Vanishing Lake is a captivating picture book by Irish author-illustrator Paddy Donnelly. It celebrates a young girl’s determination, her grandad’s wisdom, and the quiet wonders of the natural world.

Something mysterious is happening at Lake Loughareema in Ireland. Some days, the lake is full and shimmering. On others, it disappears completely. Meara wants to understand why—but her grandad always blames magical creatures: narwhals, mermaids, and even giants! Unconvinced, Meara sets out on her own to search the island, study the hills, and look under every stone.

What she discovers is even more remarkable than she imagined. Based on a real disappearing lake, this nature picture book for kids blends curiosity, science, and imagination into a story that lingers long after the final page.

Perfect for children ages 4–8, The Vanishing Lake is ideal for storytime, Earth Day, or classroom read-alouds. It encourages young readers to ask questions, explore nature, and see the world with wonder—all through Paddy Donnelly’s vivid storytelling and art.

★ Editorial Praise for The Vanishing Lake

“The Vanishing Lake explores the timeless mysteries and magic of nature. A story that captivates the imagination with lush illustrations and humour. It feels like a modern classic.”
—Fiona Woodcock, Picture Book Author & Illustrator

“Children will adore this funny and surprising mystery about a determined young girl and her inventive grandfather. Donnelly’s beautiful illustrations evoke the spirit of discovery and adventure that children find in all wild places.”
—Jennifer Bell, Children’s Author

“The whimsical tone and lively art recall Benji Davies’ The Storm Whale… Viewers will get a kick out of Meara’s look of determination as she tries to suss out the cause of the vanishing lake.”
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“We are brought on this curious journey to Lake Loughareema—under the water and over the hills—by the distinctive and enchanting voice of the author, encouraging us all to discover the magic and wonder of the story.”
—Inis Magazine, Children’s Books Ireland

Why This Nature Picture Book for Kids Belongs on Your Shelf

The Vanishing Lake is more than a beautiful story—it’s an invitation to wonder and explore. This award-winning book is based on a real disappearing lake in Ireland and encourages kids to think critically, ask questions, and embrace the magic of nature.

Paddy Donnelly’s illustrations bring every moment to life. His warm humor, imaginative details, and painterly art style make each page a joy to revisit. Donnelly is celebrated for creating picture books that blend heart, science, and storytelling—and this title is a standout.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or librarian, this book is a valuable addition to any collection. It opens conversations about geography, climate, and perseverance while capturing children’s imagination with charm and wit.

About the Author/Illustrator

Paddy Donnelly is an award‑winning Irish author‑illustrator, best known for The Vanishing Lake (2021 IPPY Gold Medal), Ava and the Acorn, Wolves in Helicopters, Here Be Dragons, Hom, Fox & Son Tailers, and most recently The Golden Hare, winner of the 2024 An Post Children’s Book of the Year and the 2025 UKLA Award.

Born and raised on the north coast of Ireland, Paddy grew up surrounded by legends of giants, magical creatures, and shape‑shifting animals—and this rich folklore continues to inspire his textured, painterly illustrations and imaginative storytelling. Self‑taught in illustration after a career in web and graphic design, he has written and illustrated over 25 picture books to date.

Now based in Belgium, Paddy uses digital tools to create warm, textured art that engages both children and adults. He still insists Pluto should be a planet.