Although it’s probably more fun to start at the beginning of the Leprechaun Adventure Series, it’s not absolutely necessary. You’ll be able to enjoy any of the four books!
I’m so thrilled to introduce Mark Leiser to you. I met Mark at a book fair, saw some of his drawings, and knew instantly that he was the one to illustrate Room for One More. He’s a VERY talented artist! You’ll see what I mean when you open the book and see his incredibly detailed drawings. Look carefully at each one - there’s so much to discover in his work.
You will notice as you read my books, that they share a common message – friendship and the importance of being loyal and kind. I have been lucky to find many loyal and kind friends in my life; Mr. McAllister was one of the kindest (and funniest)! That’s why it was a BIG problem for me when I had to tell him we were moving again. Who would help him? Who would be there if he needed something really important? Room for One More tells about how we worked through that challenge … well, that and a few other crazy things happened!
Once again, the places and adventures were honest and truly real. Miss Gloria was really my beloved neighbor, and the careless boy on the creek was a real boy. Our new (old) house was a happy home, and the new woods, the creek and the park were the settings for many, many wild adventures.
Can you believe how lucky I was to have a leprechaun for a friend? Lots of kids have asked me how to catch a leprechaun so they can have one for a friend, too. Let me tell you – don’t even try. First of all, there are many kinds of leprechauns, just like there are many different kinds of people. There are leprechauns who play tricks on people and it’s best to leave them alone. Nobody needs a nasty leprechaun around. The nice leprechauns do silly things, but they don’t like getting caught – and besides, they just use their magic to escape. But, keep your eyes open when you walk in the woods. Some people will think you’re a little kooky, but the wee folk are there. You just have to look for hidden places, and you have to believe.
Meet the Illustrator
Mark Leiser’s pen and ink illustrations for three books in The Leprechaun Adventure Series add magic to the whimsical tales created by Sandy Barton. The details woven into each drawing capture the very essence of the Leprechaun village, and the adventures that unfold there. Mark is a very humble, gifted artist with a remarkable ability to transform words into exquisite images.
Mark is a part-time freelance illustrator, and full-time Parts Manager in Amherst, NY. He lives in North Tonawanda, New York with his wife and two daughters.
Mark is co-creator of The Umbrella Man and a founding member of the Buffalo-based Fairfield Press.
Reader Reviews
My class could not wait to read this 2nd novel in the series! Ms. Barton's writing flows effortlessly and allows the reader to create vivid mental pictures. The chapter lengths are perfect for young audiences and leaves them begging to read just one more chapter! This is a great family read!
The perfect sequel to Discovery in the Woods. The wild adventures of Mr. McAllister and his clan of leprechauns continue. Quick, find a child to read to! The story and illustrations are enchanting.