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Harrogate woman publishes first children's book

Kirsty Shea-McKee said she has achieved her "lifelong ambition" after publishing her first children's book 'The Adventures of Lolloping Lola.'

Harrogate woman publishes first children's book A Harrogate woman said she has achieved her "lifelong ambition" after publishing her first children's book. Kirsty Shea-McKee's book 'The Adventures of Lolloping Lola' tells the heart-warming tale of an unlikely friendship between feline grace and canine charm. Primarily aimed at children aged 3-7, the story follows everyday dog Lola and run-of-the-mill mog Ozzy in a tale of "camaraderie, courage, and daring escapades." Kirsty said the book is something she’s wanted to achieve for many years but now finally got around to writing. She said:

“As a mother of two, I loved the time spent reading books with my children and it’s such an important time in their lives to build that love and connection as a family. "I’ve always believed that books and reading them together helps with that bond as well as educating them in a fun way."
The Adventures of Lolloping Lola is styled in rhyme and is a story of how enemies can overcome their differences and become friends. Kirsty added:
“When my children were young, one of our favourite books to read was Hairy McClary from Donaldson Dairy by Lyndley Dodd, there's something special about the rhythm of a rhyming book that makes reading aloud like a performance. "The words bounce and resonate with both the reader and the listener. It was these types of books that inspired me to start writing some of my own children’s stories. "The idea for the Adventures of Lolloping Lola was also inspired by our family dog Lola and my friend’s cat Ozzy’s intense dislike of her. "The Adventures of Lolloping Lola is my first published book however I hope there will be many more!"
Kirsty runs a beauty and wellbeing business in Harrogate and Wetherby with her partner. Additionally, twice a week, she conducts a multi-sensory workshop at Henshaw’s Arts and Crafts Centre in Knaresborough for people living with a range of disabilities. She is also currently in her fourth year of a part-time law and criminology degree. She said:
"I love to keep busy and I still have so much I want to achieve in life, but writing more children’s books is high on the list and I hope the public enjoy this first published book to enable me to continue."
Illustrated by Marisa Straccia and written by Kirsty Shea-Mckee, The Adventures of Lolloping Lola is available on Amazon here. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.

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