The Last Word with Matt Cooper Culture Club: Leona Forde
Oct 8, 2025
Leona Forde, a children's author and teacher acclaimed for her Millie McCarthy series, shares her creative journey and insights. She reveals how her daughter's longing for Irish stories inspired her writing. Leona discusses her favorite music, highlighting Dolly Parton's impactful songs and reflects on the emotional depth of Eva Cassidy's 'Songbird.' She also reminisces about her favorite childhood shows and the profound influence of Elia Kazan in film. Discover her new title, 'Milly McCarthy And The Haunted House HullaBOOloo!' and more!
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Origin Of Millie McCarthy
- Leona Forde created the Millie McCarthy stories from oral tales she told her children about a chaotic Cork girl.
- The books became a hit because they reflect Irish childhood details and are highly illustrated with short chapters.
Daughter Sparked The Books
- Leona began writing because her daughter noticed books lacked Irish settings and girls like her.
- She converted her oral stories about school, camogie and local phrases into written chapters for her children.
Accidental Publishing Break
- Leona got published after an editor asked if she was writing anything else and liked her Millie chapters.
- She panicked, typed chapters quickly and then secured a publishing deal.
