The Leprechaun in the Basement

Cute story and interesting pictures. Best for kids aged 6, 7, 8 & 9. Enjoyed the historical aspect of the book and how Ireland ties into the US in past history.

Michael McKeever's family is down on their luck, with Michael's father being out of work, and Michael's mother has told Michael that they have to "Make Do". Michael desperately needs need baseball shoes, as his toes are pushing through the ends, but his family cannot afford new shoes and Michael must "Make Do".Unbeknownst to them all, O'Leary the Leprechaun has been living in their basement and is discovered by Michael on St. Patrick's Day. Michael is familiar with the tales of leprechaun's gold and desperately wants new baseball shoes. O'Leary is a very greedy leprechaun, and refuses to share his gold with Michael. Michael will have to "Make Do" as his mother says and cannot convince O'Leary to share even a small part of his gold.During the night, greedy, old, cantankerous O"Leary has a change of heart and sews Michael a beautiful new pair of baseball shoes. Michael feels that things will be definitely getting better in their household. Colorful book for ages 4-7, and children will learn some timely lessons in family hardships, compassion, and understanding. I thought that it was a rather cute tale and if read with a parent, the parent can help the child learn about the lessons presented in the book.