Author Interview with Kenechi Udogu

The DMS was lucky enough to interview Kenechi Udogu, author of the middle grade novel The Other Slipper. Lizzy recently reviewed this twist on a classic fairy tale and It was fun to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We are excited to learn a little bit more about the story behind the story. So, without further ado... take it away, Kenechi! 

What inspired you to write The Other Slipper?

A few years ago I misread a café sign that said “The Other Side” for “The Other Slipper”. This got me wondering about Cinderella’s other slipper – the one the Prince didn’t pick up from the steps. What happened to it on that night? Did she take it home or lose it as well? As I didn’t know what the answer was, I decided to make up a story about it on my commute home. In my story, someone else found the slipper, which had its own spell and adventure wrapped around it. I was hooked on the idea. Of course, when I got home I realized that Cinderella kept the other slipper and used it to prove to the Prince that she was who she was.

How long did it take you to write The Other Slipper?

It took just over a year to complete the first draft, but that’s mostly because I work full time at my day job. The only opportunity I get to write is at night and weekends so most of my novels take pretty long to finish.

What are some of your favorite books from childhood? Were there any specific authors who inspired you?

I read a lot of books as a child but I have fond memories of Enid Blyton characters. She had a brilliant imagination – Famous Five, Malory Towers, The Magic Faraway Tree. Then as I got a little older, I graduated to high school romances like the Sweet Valley High Series, before plunging into slightly darker realms in Steven King’s world.

Where did you come up with the character, Jo?

Once I knew what I wanted to write about, I pictured the protagonist as a strong willed, sometimes obstinate but well meaning girl. I didn’t want her to be too vulnerable even though her mission would expose her to a lot of danger. Some readers seem to think Jo is a little too stubborn, but I reckon if I was forced into going on the same mission at her age (and with her limited exposure to the world), I would be equally suspicious of everyone I met. Her stubbornness worked out all right for her in the end.   

If you could befriend a character from any of your books, who would you befriend? Why?

I’m particularly fond of Locke from The Other Slipper and Mel from The Altercation of Vira. They both defy all logic to help their friends/companions. Mel literally crossed realms for someone he loved and Locke put himself in danger to protect two strangers. I’d love to have people like that looking out for me.

What is your favorite song?

I’m a bit of a music nut so it’s impossible to answer this because I’d say the first really good song that pops into my mind then realize it’s not actually my favorite song when I remember another great tune. It’ll probably be a rock song...Hmmm, can I pass on this one?

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?

I really, really, really dislike cold weather so it would have to be somewhere hot and dry – preferably somewhere with room service.   

Where can we purchase your books?


Lots of places. All my books are available as e-books at:

☞ Smashwords ☞ Barnes and Noble ☞ Amazon.com ☞ itunes ☞ Kobo ☟

Connect with this author on Facebook 

Read the reviews!  

Who else was at Prince Charming's Ball?