The ii (inishowen innovation) digital hub in Buncrana is delighted to announce the launch of ‘The Forgotten Creatures’ – the first gamebook (or ‘Choose-Your-Own-Adventure’ book) set in Inishowen. The launch event will take place from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, 28th August at the ii, offering attendees a chance to explore this unique blend of storytelling, heritage, and interactive gameplay.
A new adventure awaits
‘The Forgotten Creatures’ invites readers – and players – to step into a world where extinct Irish animals and mythical creatures return through the magic of storytelling. Set against the stunning landscapes of Buncrana, Inch Island, the Celtic Prayer Garden, and Malin Head, the book transforms into an interactive adventure, challenging players to make choices that determine the fate of these forgotten beings.
What is a gamebook?
A gamebook (or Choose-Your-Own-Adventure book) places the reader at the heart of the story, allowing them to shape the narrative through their choices. Each decision leads to a different path – some triumphant, some perilous – ensuring no two adventures are the same.
Marzia Bosoni of Forgotten Books, the Donegal-based creative team behind the new gamebook, said: “Our books may look like ordinary stories, but they are doors to engaging adventures – sometimes in faraway lands, sometimes right around the corner. ‘The Forgotten Creatures’ is more than just a gamebook; it’s an invitation to rediscover Inishowen’s rich heritage and reflect on our relationship with nature and folklore.
“Importantly, we hope our books inspire readers to rediscover the wealth of beautiful scenery and timeless traditions that need to be preserved and cherished. They can also encourage young people from different backgrounds to consider humanity’s impact on the natural world. The name ‘Forgotten Books’ is a nod to Donegal’s nickname, the ‘Forgotten County,’ but also serves as a stark reminder of how much we stand to lose if we neglect our history and heritage.”
A fusion of storytelling, gaming, and heritage
Created by Marzia Bosoni, Alessandro (Alex) Caselli, and David Lovallo, Forgotten Books combines their expertise in literature, gamification, and game design. Marzia, a professional literary translator and author; Alex, a computer science engineer and board game designer; and David, a coder, illustrator, and Dungeons & Dragons campaign writer, have crafted a book that reads like a tourist map and plays like a game.
Anne Marie McLaughlin, Manager at the ii, said: “We’re delighted to host the launch of ‘The Forgotten Creatures’ – an innovative project that blends storytelling, local heritage, and interactive gameplay. It’s a fantastic way to engage people of all ages with Inishowen’s history and landscapes in a fun, immersive way.”
‘The Forgotten Creatures’ will also be available on www.irishhands.com – a platform dedicated to supporting artists and creative makers from Inishowen and the North West. Shane Kirby, founder of Irish Hands, said: “Our mission at Irish Hands is to keep ancient craftmaking traditions alive, share the stories of local makers, and celebrate our region’s rich history and heritage. ‘The Forgotten Creatures’ is a perfect example of how storytelling and creativity can bring that past to life in exciting new ways.”
Join the adventure
The launch is open to anyone interested in gamebooks and Inishowen heritage; the event is free although registration is required at https://theii.com/events.
Don’t miss the chance to be among the first to experience ‘The Forgotten Creatures’ at the launch in the ii – where myth meets reality, and every choice matters.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Please find attached images attached of the book cover, its creators, a map of Inishowen from the book and a promotional flyer.
About Forgotten Books: A creative collective merging literature, gaming, and heritage to craft immersive adventures that reconnect readers with history, folklore, and the natural world.
About the ii (inishowen innovation): A dynamic digital innovation and co-working hub in Buncrana, fostering creativity, collaboration, and technological advancement in Inishowen. www.theii.com
About Irish Hands: An online platform championing local artists, crafters, and storytellers, preserving the traditions and heritage of Inishowen and the North West.
For further information and interviews please contact Marzia Bosoni of Forgotten Books – marzia.bosoni@gmail.com or 0899416816.
