Lola & Sophie’s ABC Adventure is a sweet ABC story that follows two loveable dogs who associate each letter of the alphabet with a memory. What was the inspiration for your story?

Lola & Sophie’s ABC Adventure was inspired by my children and my dogs. My kids are 6, 5, and 2, so we do a lot of read-alouds and they love alphabet books. Alphabet books are important for young children learning the alphabet and can be a fun way to reinforce letter recognition. Since my kids love them so much, I wanted to write my own, but make it a little different. Sophie is our rescue dog who can get herself into trouble, and Lola was a fabulous chihuahua I had that has passed away. Although the two never met in real life, I thought it would be funny to imagine their friendship since their personalities vary so much. I also want to highlight Sophie’s rescue story and raise awareness about helping rescue pets, while keeping Lola’s memory and personality alive.  

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

I taught second grade for 13 years, so I know how important early literacy is for children. I wanted to include the letters of the alphabet and make them visibly larger than the other letters on the page so kids can easily point them out. I also wanted to include lessons on friendship, family, opposites, and pet rescue. Overall, I wanted the book to be as fun as it was educational. 

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

I had the most fun writing the scene for the letter U, where Sophie is swimming underwater, and Lola is by the umbrella. I think it shows how different the two dogs really are: one is playful and mischievous, while the other is fabulous and easy-going. 

Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?

Yes, this book will be a series. I am working on another book, Lola & Sophie Teach Pet Safety. As a mom of 3 small kids and a pet owner, I know how important it is for everyone to learn pet safety skills, including not giving pets certain foods, not squeezing them, and asking permission before petting someone’s dog. Lola adds her own fabulous tricks to the book, while Sophie reflects on times that she got into trouble to bring some humor while teaching lessons.  I hope the book helps parents, kids, and pets work together to stay safe. 

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