Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is my very first self-published picture book! I have a number of manuscripts sitting in my “children’s books” folder, though, and I continue to write more. It just felt like I should start doing something with them. With everything as crazy as it’s been, I thought this would be something fun and positive to put some time into.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of the book is “What Happens When Unicorns Fart?”. It’s a picture book geared towards children ages 2-6, but I’ve had some fun feedback from adults. Based on that, I would say it’s for everyone with a sense of humor.
When you are a Homeschool Mom with small children, you learn ways to cope. I had to keep my kids entertained in places like the line at the post office or awaiting security at airports. Stories were my go to. My kids were at a point where just the word “fart” made them laugh, and they were newly into unicorns. It seemed like a good fit.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Usually, I don’t write standing on my head or anything, but I do LOVE Haribo Gummies and dark chocolate. They are frequently nearby when I am writing. I also have a much too large cozy blue sweatshirt I like to wear, as I get cold easily. Truth be told, frequently I laugh as I write. That can be embarrassing when I am writing in public.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The classics are very much an influence on me. Dr Seuss and Shel Silverstein are particular favorites. But I would also say the Original Brother’s Grimm, fairy tales, and Mother Goose would be noteworthy. These are books and stories I grew up with, and sparked my imagination. While he was not an author, Jim Henson’s work is a huge inspiration.
What are you working on now?
Well, I actually have a few things in the works. There is an app on the way for Unicorn Farts, along with a possible YouTube channel to teach children. (can you believe this is a book about nutrition????)
There are a couple of books I am trying to get published traditionally, so we’ll see what happens there.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
With the pandemic, and this being my first published picture book, I’ve mainly relied on Facebook. Being an unknown author, it’s a little harder to promote, but I am learning!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If this is your dream, keep at it. Life can change on a dime.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Do your work, the rest will follow.
What are you reading now?
Les Six. It’s about a group of composers in Paris in the 20’s. I love classical music, and my favorite composer, Eric Satie, brought this group together. It’s intriguing to me to think they hung out with people like Picasso and Charlie Chaplin, and ushered in a whole new sound into the classical world.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Just keep going. Keep pursuing publishing, and keep writing. I have a lot of stories for children, and they won’t do any good to anyone sitting on my computer!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Well,
1: my current book, Les Six, as I dislike leaving books half read.
2: The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, so I can be prepared to hitch a ride out of there if a spaceship passes by. You never know.
3: Celestial Navigation: A practical guide to knowing where you are. I never did master it, and if I’m stuck on an island, I’ll have plenty of time to devote to the topic, with no light pollution. It would be an ideal local to learn.
4: World History from the dawn of civilization to the present day. Because I LOVE history.
Author Websites and Profiles
Michelle O’Healy Amazon Profile
Michelle O’Healy’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile