U.K.-Born, PV-Based: Author Caroline Perry Brings Heart, Humor, and Messi Magic to Young Readers Everywhere
PVM: What brought you to Palos Verdes, and what do you love most about raising your family here?
Caroline Perry: We moved here during the pandemic, just as my eldest was starting middleschool. We were drawn to PV’s natural beauty and strong sense of community, and as I’moriginally from the UK, the misty mornings and microclimates feel both familiar and magicalI’m a regular at the Peninsula library—it’s truly one of my favorite places on the Hill.
PVM: How has the PV community inspired your work as a writer?
Caroline Perry: I often volunteer as a writing instructor at my daughter’s elementary school. Kids are endlessly creative—it’s inspiring just being around them. If I’m struggling with writers’ block, I head out for a walk along the cliffs. There’s something about the ocean air and sweeping views that clears mental cobwebs.
When Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, his impact was immediate—almost overnight, school playgrounds were flooded with pink No.10 jerseys. But Leo’s story is about so much more than soccer: it’s about resilience, dedication, and overcoming serious challenges. With the World Cup coming to the U.S. next year, I think this book is arriving at just the right moment.
PVM: You also coach soccer—how has that shaped your storytelling?
Caroline Perry: Last year, I helped coach a U14 boys’ team that won King of the Hill!
PVM: What advice do you have for PV kids who want to follow their creative passions?
Caroline Perry: Keep going, even when it gets hard. Even bestselling authors face setbacks and rejection, and Messi’s journey is proof that resilience matters just as much as talent.
PVM: Your debut, The Corgi and the Queen, made quite a splash—what’s next?
Caroline Perry: It’s been an incredible ride—from VOGUE and People Magazine to beinginterviewed on Japanese TV! This year, I have three new books. I’m very grateful!
Caroline’s 2025 Releases
The Memory Cake (Available Now!): A WWII-era family story set in Malta, illustrated by Jennifer Bricking.
Messi’s Magic (September 2, local launch party): The inspiring story of soccer’s GOAT, illustrated by Luciano Lozano.
I AM NOT HAPPY! (October 7, local launch party) – A hilarious tale starring a very misunderstood quokka, illustrated by Sydney Hanson.
Signed copies of all of Caroline’s books are available at {pages} Bookstore in Manhattan Beach.
For more info, visit: carolinelperry.com
