BookLife Talks with Carol Campbell

A sponsored Q&A with the author of 'Larry the Ranch Dog'

In Carol Campbell’s debut, a dog named Larry searches for a home to call his own. We spoke with Campbell about writing a picture book, how much of the story actually happened, and whether readers will see any more books about Larry.

Have you always wanted to write?

Yes, I have always wanted to write, but it took me 30 years to finally have something that I believe so strongly and passionately to write about.

What made you decide to make Larry the star of your first book?

I feel that the struggles Larry went through before he was even a year old were devastating to him. The trauma has scarred him for the rest of his life. Larry is the star of this story. I feel he deserves to have history told.

Larry the Ranch Dog is based on actual events. To what extent did you draw from real life for the book?

I wanted Larry’s story to be based on his true story. This story is about Larry’s daily struggles on the farm and trying to find his forever home.

What do you think authors need to keep in mind when writing for children?

I feel authors need to keep children interested in what they are reading. Larry the Ranch Dog is told from Larry’s point of view, which I thought would be more interesting for children. From the start of the book, children will be cheering Larry on and hoping he finds his forever home.

Can readers expect more books from you?

Yes, they can. Larry’s story doesn’t end with him finding his forever home. His forever home was full of sisters and a brother. Larry and his doodles.