There are countless Christmas stories and quite a few New Year’s tales. But what about those days between, the lull between holidays? Thanks to Mr. Lee D’Looo, the New Year’s Imp, those days are anything but dull.
Written by Lauren Connelly, this hilarious tale fills in the holiday gap and keeps readers chuckling well after the final page. Look below to meet the creative children’s book author who is changing how you view those post-Christmas, pre-New Year’s days.
Let’s get started learning about you. Who is Lauren Connelly?
I’m a very proud solo parent of three beautiful daughters. I’m also an North Carolina real estate broker, interior designer, and Airbnb Superhost! My ultimate goal in life is to help the homeless population.
What is your writing process?
My process is amusing. I always come up with crazy ideas for books and put them on my to-do list. Then, when I get inspired, I write the book! It all happens rather quickly once I get started.
Now, Mr. Loo D’Looo. What is it about, and how did you come up with the idea?
I think we can all agree that the week after Christmas and before NYE is weird and surreal. I’ve always felt like we needed some fresh holiday characters, and thus, Mr. Lee D’Looo came to life! He’s a naughty little Imp who wreaks havoc after Santa leaves.
How long did it take for you to move toward publication, how did you find Argyle Fox Publishing, and what made you think we would be a good fit?
The publication process was very drawn out, because I had other significant events going on in my life over these past five or so years. My brother (Michael Adam Jones) published his book (Nerds in the Burbs, Book One) with Argyle Fox Publishing and introduced me. It’s been nothing but a joy and pleasure to work with y’all!
Now that Mr. Loo D’Looo is published, how will you measure whether your book is a success? What is your goal for the book?
I would like my character and concept to be picked up by Nickelodeon or one of the other children’s show channels and turned into a cartoon series.
What are you doing to market your book and let folks know it is available?
I post a lot about it on Facebook and plan to run some Facebook Ads.
What feedback have you received so far on your book?
All 5-star reviews so far!
What do you now know about book publishing that you wish you knew before getting started?
It’s a step-by-step process and takes some patience.
What would you say to other authors who have a great story they aren’t sure if they should publish?
Just give it a shot. You live once, and a book is a legacy you can leave behind.
Mr. Lee D’Looo is such a creative project. Do you have others up your sleeve? If so, do you mind giving up a sneak peek at your next book idea?
I have several other books in the works. One teaches kids how to invest in real estate using ghosts instead of people. The other one is a book called Cool Words for Kids, and it’s just as it sounds.
Where can readers find you online? (This can be a website/social media, etc.)
You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and on my Flowpage.
Is there anything else the world should know about you or your writing?
I just like to be silly and have fun. I hope I can provide some of that same enthusiasm and joy to my readers!