The Pat Kenny Show Dermot O'Leary on his new book ‘Toto The Ninja Cat, And The Pirate Treasure Hunt’
Nov 14, 2025
Dermot O'Leary, a bestselling author and beloved TV presenter, shares insights about his latest children's book featuring the adventurous Toto the Ninja Cat. He reveals the story's Irish treasure hunt and his real-life inspiration from adopting a blind kitten in Italy. Dermot creatively discusses crafting memorable characters like Ferdicat, and how he balances humor for both kids and adults. He also reflects on his writing routine and adapting his stories for the stage, while humorously asserting why cats are his preferred pets!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
How Toto Was Discovered
- Dermot adopted a cat from an olive grove in Italy and discovered she was almost blind, inspiring the 'ninja' idea.
- He and his wife delivered kittens and smuggled some back to London, which became the genesis for Toto.
Write For Kids And Adults
- Dermot writes children's books that also entertain adults by adding counterintuitive, naughty references adults enjoy.
- He intentionally layers jokes adults will get while keeping the stories fun for kids.
The Archduke Character Arc
- Archduke Ferdicat is a recurring pompous villain who wants animals to run the world and clashes with Toto.
- Dermot uses this character as a comedic foil who has evolved into a frenemy over the series.
