The Unluckiest Leprechaun by Far follows an unlucky leprechaun who tries to get his luck back by kidnapping an especially lucky human girl.What was the inspiration for your story?

I didn’t want the usual capture a Leprechaun and get wishes and money from the fairy kind of story.  I was trying to think of something different, and the idea of switching the story up and having the Leprechaun get his way in the end appealed to me.  The usual kind of story has been overdone.  I wanted something different, and that’s when this lovely tale popped into my head.  It was the right kind of ornery that appealed to my sense of humor.

The art in this book is fantastic and brings the story to life. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Christina Cartwright?

Christina’s talent is amazing.  This is our second book worked together, and I feel she elevated her artwork even more so than the last time we worked together.  Her attention to detail was truly sublime – she made my words on the page come to life.  There really seemed to be some magic at work with how this book came together.  At one point, I even asked Christina if she had a little bit of Irish in her, which she admitted she did, and I wasn’t surprised.  I, of course, have an Irish ancestry as well, so is it any wonder that two American “Irish” lasses came up with a magical tale about Leprechauns?  Our collaboration together was truly magical.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

I do realize that I used some slightly bigger words than are traditionally found in a children’s book, but I also subscribe to the belief of pushing a person’s vocabulary.  You don’t grow verbally and mentally if you are not exposed to new words.  I also felt strongly about bringing the notion of karma into the story.  If you are a good person with a good heart, then you have the power to change the world as long as you embrace kindness and goodwill towards others as Brianna extended to Liam.  Our highest purpose in life should always be to help others whenever we are able to do so.

What will the next book in the Happy Tails series be about, and when will it be published?

The next book in the series is about a pet bunny. Hopefully it teaches the concept of always being kind to our furry friends and to be mindful of what they truly need to not only survive, but thrive in this world.  It should be out by August at the latest.

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