The Foreshore Interview: Michela Carbosiero

Could you tell us a bit about The Dog with No Fur -The Adventures of Leo? 

The Dog with No Fur is about a dog call Leo, born without any fur at all, who begins the book completely focused on one goal: to fix or hide his imperfections so he fits in and is not humiliated by other more popular dogs. But when nothing works Leo has to choose between hating himself  and hiding away or standing out and feeling proud. The important lesson is loving yourself is the most important thing because everyone is special and unique.

Leo is such a brilliant character. Where did the inspiration for him come from?  

The real Leo is a very special little dog. He has alopecia, which means he doesn’t have fur. But that never stops him from being the happiest dog with the brightest eyes and the kindest heart. Leo has a magical way of making people laugh—without even trying! He reminds us every day that joy doesn’t come from looking like everyone else. It comes from being proud of who you truly are.

Transformation is a strong theme throughout the book. Was this always something you wanted to write about?  

I first wrote this story when I was just 14, while attending a hospital school and struggling with my mental health. Writing became my safe space, a way to express myself and transform something painful into something hopeful.

You also include themes and issues that aren’t always talked about in children’s fiction, but you do it in such a sensitive and engaging way for the reader. Do you think there are more themes and issues that could be featured in fiction for young people? 

Through Leo, I found the perfect way to show children, and myself, that being different is not a weakness, it’s a superpower. When I was younger, I often felt “less than.” I worried every day that my differences made me weaker. But writing gave me confidence. It allowed me to create characters like Leo, who may be different, but in my eyes, shines brighter than the stars. His journey gave me a strength I didn’t know I had. As I watched this story unfold and grow, I realised how grateful I am, not just for writing, but for choosing myself. For choosing a life worth living. Leo’s story reflects my own journey he may have no fur, and I may not be perfect, but what I’ve learned is that self-love—real, unconditional self-love is what truly matters.

What do you want readers to take away from this book?

Kindness is key. And my greatest hope is that this book radiates kindness and hope to everyone who reads it. If my younger self could see me now, achieving a goal I once believed I wouldn’t live to reach, she would be proud. Proof that everyone has a place on this earth, and that we all carry a special presence. Being different is beautiful, and it’s something I would never change.

What books/ stories/ authors have been an inspiration to you, and your writing? 

Julia Donaldson has always been a huge inspiration to me, and I adore Quentin Blake’s illustrations. When I was at school, I really looked up to Julia Donaldson’s work. Recently, I had the chance to watch her online course, Learn with Julia Donaldson: Create a Picture Book, and it truly inspired me to take the next step in my own creative journey!

We’d love to know what’s up next for you. Are you writing anything new, or any other exciting news?  

I’m VERY excited about my next book, The Unique Universe: The Adventures of Leo, which will be out in 2026. It’s about a magical journey celebrating unique friends and unforgettable adventures.