About

The Super Generation


Are we human?

is a compelling collection of stories that shine a light on the experiences of individuals who have sought refuge in Ireland. Written by Melanie Martin and Leah O'Shaughnessy, Are We Human? not only captures the stories of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants but also highlights the compassion of Irish strangers who selflessly help those in need. The book offers a snapshot of human rights issues faced by people and invites readers to pause and reflect on the humanity and value of every human life, regardless of borders. War, displacement, and violence are not choices people make, they are tragedies that happen to innocent individuals. The book aims to foster empathy, understanding, and social justice through the powerful narratives of resilience, hope, and human rights.
Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human?
Are We Human? Are We Human?

The book highlights the stories of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants from Palestine, Iran, Zimbabwe, Ukraine, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Congo, Angola, Nigeria, Sudan, Lesotho and Ghana.

Typically, each story recounts the personal struggle and journey of the narrator while giving a background to the political situation in their home country. Are We Human? empowers each contributor to share their story in their own way. Collected through a series of interviews and transcribed, each narrative is a personal recollection, told within the boundaries set by the contributor. This approach respects their right to share their story as they choose.

Are We Human? Are We Human?
Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human? Are We Human?

Authors

Leah O’ Shaughnessy and Melanie Martin

Melanie Martin and Leah O’ Shaughnessy both work as second-level teachers. They co-authored Resilience and Me and are passionate about helping others through education, activism and advocacy.

The Publishers

Published by the Examcraft Group, an educational publishing company that specialises in producing high-quality educational resources, including textbooks and exam preparation materials. This book reflects their broader mission to promote social justice through powerful storytelling and educational initiatives.

Are we human? is being distributed to retailers through Gill Distribution.

Conversations on Humanity and Belonging

Join Are We Human? authors Melanie Martin and Leah O’Shaughnessy for an engaging 60-90 minute discussion tailored for your shop, company, or community group. Drawing from their experiences meeting asylum seekers, refugees and migrants, they’ll share powerful stories that inspire empathy and human connection.
As an added option, you can invite some of those who shared their stories to participate in the conversation, enriching the dialogue with their first-hand perspectives.

Contact Us

The book in the Media

Leah, Oliver and Melanie Oliver Callan’s RTE 1 Show: Interview with the authors
Khalid and his children Irish Independent: Palestinians starting a new life in Ireland



Khalid and his children Leah and Lariche (contributor) at IrelandAM
Teachers behind new book of refugees’ stories want to challenge stereotypes Irish Independent: Teachers behind new book of refugees’ stories want to challenge stereotypes

Reviews

“As a child of refugees who grew up in a refugee camp, I know what it feels like to have to leave for a chance at life. Are We Human? reminds us that life can change instantly when war comes to your doorstep. Nobody ever wants to be a refugee. We might look different, but we all want the same things – to be part of a family, to grow up safe and to have a home. I represent those who were given a chance at a better life in Ireland. We were welcomed with open arms. These stories remind us that compassion and community integration are key. This book gives a voice to those seeking safety for many reasons and it shines a light on the Irish people who have welcomed them with open arms.”

Zak Moradi A Kurdish, Irish hurler who plays for Leitrim

Are we Human? is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. Every story was gut wrenching, reminding me that all people deserve to live a good life, a life free from war, hurt, harm and hunger! The stories took me around the world and taught me about what is happening in places I only get to see on social media. They reminded me that providing people with refuge is essential. This book reminds us that we should always lead with kindness, everyone deserves to live in peace. Thank you to those who were brave enough to share their story – you will live in my heart forever!”

Katriona O'Sullivan Author of Poor

"A powerful and timely work. Are we Human? gives voice to those often silenced by war, borders and bureaucracy, while reminding us of our collective responsibility to stand up for human rights."

James Geoghegan Lord Mayor of Dublin

“Everyone has a story, from Ballyboden to Ballyhaunis to Beirut to Bogota. The more we learn the story behind the human, the more we can have empathy and realise we are all the same at the end of the day. This book tells those stories and does so beautifully.”

Michael Darragh Macauley Chief Executive Officer, Sanctuary Runners

"This important and timely book should serve as a vital reminder of our shared humanity. As we witness an ominous rise in support for the politics of hate and division across Europe and the world, we can take heart from these stories of kindness, compassion and inclusivity. While far-right voices may shout loudly, the quiet untold story is of the many communities that have welcomed new arrivals and shown immense compassion towards those seeking refuge from persecution and war. The spirit of inclusivity will prevail."

Ivana Bacik TD and Leader of the Labour Party

Are We Human? opened my eyes, it is humbling, inspiring and uplifting. In my view, it is a brilliant documentation of the resilience and endless potential of the human spirit. Every person living in Ireland should read this book.”

Dara Connolly Chief Executive Officer, Common Purpose Ireland

“In this remarkable book, we read the stories of people who have come to live in Ireland from troubled countries.We Irish pride ourselves on being welcoming, especially to those who are in need. In our own history, many of our ancestors had to leave for the very same reason that people have come here – poverty, the threat of violence and lack of opportunity to live as full a life as possible."

Professor Luke O'Neill Trinity College, Dublin