WHAT links a Nobel laureate and a presidential chef to a Fanad farmer and a one-room school-teacher?
A brand-new Donegal book called ‘Trace’.
Created by Laura Buchanan from Ramelton and Isla McGuckin from Portsalon, ‘Trace’ brings together forty-eight contributors.
They come from all walks of life and share the split-second decisions, chance encounters, and twists of fate that have influenced their lives’ paths.
Global adventurers, acclaimed artists and household names sit side-by-side with people who’ve forged fulfilling lives far closer to home. ‘Trace’ describes universally relatable themes from the freedom of a first car to the ache of unrequited love, from opportunities missed to dreams boldly pursued.
The book had its launch in An Grianán Theatre last Saturday to great acclaim.
Isla said: “It was a privilege and a pleasure to make this book.
“The pages are brimming with warmth, wit, and wisdom. And the stories’ shared message is an important reminder for all of us: give life your best shot!”
Beautifully produced and printed in Ireland, ‘Trace’ is also a wonderfully thoughtful Christmas gift.
‘Trace’ follows on from the duo’s previous collaboration, ‘Leap’. Published in 2025, the book brought together 50 inspiring stories from Donegal creatives.
In September, Isla’s children’s book ‘Oakie’ was recommended in a guide by Children’s Books Ireland.
Released as an A5 softback, Trace is 110 pages and is priced at €20.
It is available at laurabuchanan.ie/products/book-trace and selected independent stockists across Ireland.
A NEW group exhibition curated by well-known Letterkenny man Seami Quinn of Artworks Picture Framing opens at An Grianán...









