1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
Hello! My name is Lisa Kelly and I’m a graduate of the University of Notre Dame. I have written five books, all revolving around Notre Dame. Three non-fiction books about former athletes and their stories of how they got to Notre Dame, what their experience was like when they were in school, and then where their lives went after sports. My fourth book is a Notre Dame football cookbook filled with the favorite recipes of former Notre Dame football players, coaches, student managers and leprechauns. And my new book is my first children’s book, Clover Goes to Notre Dame … a story of a French Bulldog’s first trip to Notre Dame on a football Saturday.
2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Clover Goes to Notre Dame”?
I went to college at the University of Notre Dame from 1989-1993. I absolutely love my school, and I love my animals. For years, twenty-eight to be exact, I sent my loved ones Christmas letters penned in the voice of my pets. First, I wrote using the voice of my cats, Taz and Puzzle. Then I continued with my dogs, Hailey and Molly. And now the letters are “written” by my current dog, Clover. Clover is a playful, quirky, and funny French Bulldog. When I decided to write a Notre Dame children’s book, I knew she would be the perfect narrator. I hope you love seeing the Notre Dame campus through Clover’s eyes. For me, it has been a joy to create and share this fun and whimsical tale.
3. When did you realize you want to be an author?
About 10 years ago I decided that the world didn’t have enough positive stories and inspiration, and that is what lead me to writing my first book, Echoes From the End Zone: The Men They Became.
4. Please tell us something about your book “Clover Goes to Notre Dame”?
Meet Clover, a French Bulldog with a nose for adventure and more than a touch of luck. “A clover reminds us to keep faith, love, and hope in our hearts,” my mom says. What else will Clover learn on her very first visit to her mom’s alma mater? Follow this little Frenchie through Father Sorin’s big college campus and straight to the heart the Notre Dame family.
5. For which age group is your book “Clover Goes to Notre Dame” suitable for?
4-8 years old (or Notre Dame fans big and small!)
6. What is your favorite Quote?
I can’t believe that God put us on this earth to be ordinary. – Lou Holtz, former Notre Dame head football coach
7. What do you like the most about your country?
I love the opportunities this country gives us to pursue our dreams, whatever they may be!
8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
Reading is the best habit you can give your children. It teaches them to communicate better, it broadens their imagination, and it lowers their stress levels.
9. What does literary success look like to you?
Literary success is when I get a positive review or email from someone I don’t know. It makes me so happy to see people enjoying my work!
10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
My mom and dad are my inspirations because even in their 70s and 80s they are both avid readers and are always looking to learn new things. I truly believe reading helps them keep their minds sharp.
Lisa Kelly’s Website
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