Welcome to #TheQuickSixInterview with Susie O’Leary!
What a fun delight to welcome Susanna (Susie) O’Leary to the blog to share her new picture book, Uh Oh Spaghetti-oh!. And here’s something special about this book – it’s also a popular kids song that earned a finalist spot in the Queensland Music Awards! Susie is a highly respected songwriter and performer, author and mum, proud to be the creator of the catchiest tune/sing-song story every kid will love! Based on those ‘whoopsie-doo’ moments in life when tumbles and mishaps just happen to spill out unexpectedly, this lyrical rhythm captures so much silliness to quash any feelings of glum and gloom. Topped with the most deliciously effervescent illustrations by Amna Zaki, this song-style format in a picture book works a treat to lure any-age child… who will certainly be back for a second helping (and more!).
Thank you, and congratulations on such an impressive venture with your musical work, Susie! 🙂
Watch the fun book reading below.
About the Author
Renowned composer and vocalist Susanna O’Leary is a creative powerhouse, delighting fans young and old with her incredible talent and infectious enthusiasm.
Her latest project, Happy Singing Kids, is a joyful musical adventure that captures her playful spirit, featuring fun-loving and sometimes downright silly tunes that have listeners tapping their toes and singing along.
A well-respected figure in the Australian music scene, Susanna has an impressive list of accolades, including numerous songwriting awards and performances at prestigious venues. The popularity of “Uh Oh Spaghetti-oh!” continues to grow, with its title song named a finalist at the Queensland Music Awards, and additional tracks receiving highly commended accolades in the Children’s Music category for three consecutive years (2021, 2022, and 2023).
Susanna has now expanded her creative journey with the release of her first children’s book, adapted from the hit song “Uh Oh Spaghetti-oh!”
Please find Susanna O’Leary at her Happy Singing Kids website and on Instagram and YouTube.
Uh Oh Spaghetti-oh! is available for purchase via Happy Singing Kids.
WHO wrote, illustrated and published this book?
Music and words written by: Susie O’Leary
Illustrated by: Amna Zaki
Self published through Clark and Mackay
WHAT is it about?
“Uh oh spaghetti-oh!” is a bubbly tale that spins life’s little hiccups into hilarious, sing-songy moments. When zany mishaps, tumbling tumbles, or cheeky ant nibbles come your way, what’s the perfect chant to chase the blues away? – “Uh oh spaghetti-oh!” Join the silly spree, where a sprinkle of fun can fix any Whoopsie-doo!
What is your favourite part of this book?
I love the oversized bull ant drawing – I think it is brilliant and captures how children see an ant or creepy crawly when it has just bitten them! (just ask any parent!)
WHEN did you begin writing this book?
This book actually started as a song! The idea of turning it into a book became cemented when I was given the opportunity to perform at a series of library shows across Brisbane. I saw how engaged the children were with the song and thought I’d like to take them on a literacy journey too!
When is its release / launch date?
It was released in July last year at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024.
WHERE did the inspiration for this book come from?
My two daughters were the inspiration behind this book. During the Covid pandemic, while at home with my little ones, I began jotting down the words that eventually became both this book and its accompanying song. It all started as a light-hearted way to navigate the daily chaos of parenting. As a mum and creative, it felt like a natural expression of who I am. I often found myself saying, “Uh oh, spaghetti-oh!” whenever something went wrong — it was my playful way of comforting the girls and reminding them that little accidents are normal. After all, whoopsie-doos are just a part of life!
WHY is this book meaningful to you?
It’s meaningful to me because it is my first book. I never saw myself as an author and am immensely proud that I have had the opportunity to take this beloved song into a literacy space.
Why would its message resonate with readers?
Firstly, we’ve all had our fair share of whoopsie-doos, and as parents, we know how important it is to nurture resilience in our kids. Secondly, this story invites children into the magic of reading through song — a joyful and accessible way to connect with stories, no matter where they are on their reading journey. Every child learns differently, whether it’s by following the words, exploring the pictures, singing along, or acting out the story. Uh Oh Spaghetti-oh! is designed to meet them where they are, it’s for every little kid!
HOW do you feel about the illustrations / cover design? How do they convey the feeling or mood you envisioned?
I absolutely LOVE the illustrations in this book. Amna Zaki did an amazing job to bring my story to life! I felt she captured the character with the spaghetti hair beautifully and I love how she was able to bring out the fun bubbly vibe of the words.
How have you promoted this book and how can we find it?
I have begun promoting this book to libraries nationally and am currently booking tours across Australia. The book is available via our website: happysingingkids.com
OTHER information or experiences you’d like to share?
I’m excited about the prospect of transforming more of my songs into books to continue the singing literacy journey I have fallen in love with!
Such fun, Susie! It’s been a treat! 🙂
#thequicksixinterview #uhohspaghettioh #singsong #mishaps #picturebook #justkidslit
