Have a Good Trip, Lucky! follows a sweet little dog from Conakry, Guinea, who gets adopted by a U.S. diplomat and then has to travel across the world when his owner gets transferred to Washington, DC. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The Dog Diplomat Adventure series is actually inspired by my real-life rescue dog, Lucky! This book, Have a Good Trip, Lucky! – is the second book in the series. 

 Lucky found me when I was posted to the U.S. Embassy in Conakry, Guinea, in West Africa. After becoming part of both my family and the U.S. Embassy community family, Lucky was surrounded by love and friendship. However, as those in the foreign service and military service know, new assignments often lead to new destinations.  Lucky’s Diplomat Mom receives new work orders, and she is being transferred back to a job in the United States.  Lucky is about to embark on his overseas move or trip!  

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

There are three themes in the book that I hope children and families take away after reading it.  

INNER COURAGE – Lucky must find his inner courage in order to embark on his first overseas move and trip.  Life inevitably presents challenges, and both children and adults need to summon their inner strength when confronted with difficulties.

LOVE – This story depicts a temporary separation between Lucky and his Mom.  She arranges for Lucky to stay with her sister’s family until they can be reunited.  This mirrors real-life situations where parents might leave their children for school, camp, or other commitments.  Lucky learns that even in her absence, his Mom continues to care for him through trusted family members and friends. 

TRUE MEANING OF HOME – Lucky discovers that HOME is not a building or place but is comprised of family and friends.  And as long as you have your loved ones with you, you are at HOME, no matter where in the world you may land.  

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

Actually, the ending of the book was the most enjoyable to write. When Lucky arrives in New York and meets my sisters and their families!  I had the opportunity to honor my family in this story.  Without their love and support, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish my job.  

This book is a tribute to all family members who stand by their loved ones serving in the foreign service and military.  

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

Yes – this book is the second installment in the Dog Diplomat Adventure series!

The first book – Lucky Puppy Finds Two Families – narrates Lucky’s journey from being a homeless puppy on the streets of West Africa to finding not just one, but two loving families.  Inspired by my real-life rescue dog Lucky, this series chronicles his adventures.  

In Have a Good Trip, Lucky!  –  the second book,  I share how Lucky became an integral part of both my family and the U.S. Embassy community, surrounded by love and friendship.  However, as is common in foreign and military service, new orders often lead to new destinations. Lucky’s Diplomat Mom receives orders to transfer back to the United States, leading to Lucky’s exciting overseas adventure!

Have a Good Trip, Lucky! – follows Lucky’s first big trip and explores courage, change, and the comfort of finding the true meaning of “home.” 
 
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