Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I think we are all storytellers at heart. I imagine neolithic families gathered around the fire sharing stories. We are social creatures; it is what we do. I’m no different, I have always loved to tell stories, I have always enjoyed the bond that is created between the teller and listeners. Writing down these stories was a natural extension of storytelling for me. And, it allows me to share with more people and I love that.
What inspired you to write your book?
I first told the story of Little Joe to my flower girl almost 20 years ago. Then I told more Little Joe stories to my child. I told the stories to others and eventually wrote them down. I understand that is more the how than the why, so, I’ll go back to sharing stories with others as my ultimate inspiration.
What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
I hope Little Joe can remind us to see each other and no matter the circumstances, that we accept others for who they are and treat them with kindness and love. Little Joe is about friendship and accepting differences.
What drew you into this particular genre?
I have dabbled in many genres, but as a story teller my target audience is often children. This story in particular has always been for children, so that is why this particular genre.
If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
This is the best question ever. I think of the three characters in this book I would like to sit down with Roxy, I’ve had several encounters with bears in real life and the idea of sitting down with one over a cup of tea makes me smile. There are a lot of questions I have for her, but I think the one I most want to ask her is, “Do you have any family stories about your great-great-grandfather’s time in the circus?”
I love that there are these wonderful backstories that develop with the characters, and it is only mentioned in passing in the book. I would love to learn more about her family.
What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
I have only just begun this journey. So, I don’t know that I can responsibly declare any one platform better than others. I am most comfortable and familiar with Facebook. My guess is that is where most of my efforts will be placed.
What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
I am also an aspiring author who is just starting out. My advice is do. I don’t believe anyone aspires to become an author because they are chasing money. We want to connect with others through the power of storytelling. If that is what you want, then do it. Write to share.
What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
Little Joe has a few more adventures to have. Next up Little Joe and the Big City, and Little Joe and the Big Snow. And I’ve been playing with ghost/horror stories and some retellings of classic fairy tales. So, keep your eyes open. Oh, and thanks to one of the previous questions I am now writing about Roxy’s ancestor in the circus.
About the Author
Mike Darcy is a devoted husband, doting father, and animal lover who has nurtured a lifelong passion for wildlife. His deep connection with nature inspired him to pen his debut children’s book, which promotes adventure, curiosity, creativity, and forging unexpected friendships through small acts of compassion.
When away from the writing desk and his day job as a business manager, he can often be found experimenting with new recipes, wandering the wilderness on a long hike, and even mountain climbing. Mike currently resides in New Hampshire with his wife, child, and their dog and cat.
He hopes you enjoy his story as much as he enjoyed crafting it, and that you join Little Joe on his next adventures in Little Joe and the Big City and Little Joe and the Big Snow!
