Blog Archives
Grief and Loss
Pablo follows a beloved dog who is separated from his family and embarks on an unexpected journey home, forming an unlikely friendship and discovering the meaning of love, courage, and belonging along the way. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for the setup of Pablo’s story was one that just hit me all at once in a flash! A good friend of mine challenged me to write something, and I had long pondered that conversation – even debating with myself on what I wanted to write. Then the idea for Pablo hit me like a lightning bolt. I literally had the entire story laid out in my head in a flash of creative sorcery. It was remarkable! As I started flushing the idea out further, and being that PABLO is a Mexican dog, I had the idea to write PABLO in English with Spanish words and phrases. So children can learn some Spanish while reading the book. Then, when my mother suddenly passed away, I was grieving and had the idea to incorporate the Five Stages of Grief into the book to help parents and educators openly discuss grief and loss with children. I thought to myself, “If I can help one child deal with what I’m dealing with right now, it will all be worth it”. The response has been amazing. The grief component is really resonating with librarians and parents alike, and I’m very thankful for that.
The story combines comedy, adventure, and moments of grief. How did you balance those very different emotional tones for young readers?
The comedic and adventure components of PABLO can naturally flow while flushing out the story. The grief component was far more challenging. I wanted to subtly weave the Five Stages of grief into the book without forcing the Five Stages down readers’ throats. I wanted to make sure I handled all the stages of grief properly, but subtly, to make sure each stage was easily accessible to children and parents/educators. The lesson plan at the back of the book encourages open discussion about grief and loss with children, and the work Missy did with us on that is invaluable. There are also further lesson plan materials on our website at www.kidstori.com
How did you and illustrator Irvin Walkes work together to develop the visual world of Pablo?
Irvin did a remarkable job with the art on PABLO. It took almost three years to complete, as every page was hand-drawn and painted. Our process was not unlike Disney films of old, with the art. I always wanted to create a 1070’s throwback feel with a modern twist, and Irvin accomplished all that and more! There was Irvin the artist, Jason (Publisher), Rob (designer), and I getting together weekly to review and work on all the art. Some panels magically worked right away, while others took years of revisions. Irvin would board the panel, and we would tweak the art tirelessly to make sure it was perfect before we advanced to color or texture. If we did not like something, even the smallest little detail, Irvin went back to the drawing board, starting the panel from scratch until we all felt it was just right. We have thousands of iterations of the different panels of art in the book.
Do you see more adventures ahead for Pablo and his family?
Well… There may just be an easter egg in PABLO setting up a sequel… See if you can find it. 🙂
OH! – And when you finish reading PABLO, don’t forget to play PABLO: The Video Game! We spent three years working on that as well, and we feel it is a wonderful complement to the book!
PABLO
Pablo, written by Mar Andersons and illustrated by Irvin Walkes, is a lively children’s adventure about a beach-town dog in Mexico whose life suddenly takes an unexpected turn. Pablo is excited about becoming a father, but a trip to a resort leads to him being mistaken for a stray, taken away, and eventually transported all the way to Seattle. From there, the story becomes a cross-country journey as Pablo tries to get back to Arianna and their new puppies. Along the way, he meets Grandma Joan, a lonely widow traveling in an RV, and their separate stories gradually come together in a way that gives the book more emotional weight than its wild opening might suggest.
The story moves quickly and has a playful sense of humor. Pablo is dramatic, expressive, and constantly reacting to whatever bizarre situation he lands in next, whether he’s wearing a pink dress, escaping through a backyard, flying toward a highway, or helping Joan change a flat tire. The rhyming text keeps the pace energetic, and the Spanish words scattered throughout the story give Pablo a distinctive voice while also introducing young readers to simple vocabulary. A Spanish-to-English glossary near the end helps readers understand words such as amor, familia, gracias, and corazón. The humor and action make the book fun to read aloud, while Pablo’s determination to get home gives all that chaos a clear purpose.
The illustrations are fantastic. Walkes uses bold colors, exaggerated expressions, dramatic perspectives, and almost cinematic scenes to make Pablo’s journey feel big. Some pages are bright and cartoonish, such as the resort scenes with the mischievous twins, while others become darker and more atmospheric when Pablo is frightened or lost. The scene with the enormous cat Buttons feels almost like a suspense movie, while later pages showing Pablo and Joan traveling down the coast become warmer and calmer. The final beach scenes are especially striking, with soft sunset colors and the whole family gathered together by the water. The pictures don’t simply repeat what the text says. They add jokes, emotion, movement, and small visual details that give readers more to notice each time through the book.
What gives Pablo its heart is the way the adventure becomes a story about family, grief, companionship, and finding your way home. Pablo spends most of the book trying to return to Arianna, while Joan is quietly trying to cope with losing her husband. Their friendship helps both of them move forward. By the time they reach Mexico, Pablo is reunited with his family, and Joan finds a new sense of connection with them as well. The book even includes a section for adults about talking to children about grief, connecting Joan’s experiences to the stages of grief shown throughout the story. Pablo packs comedy, action, Spanish vocabulary, and some tender moments into one energetic story, making it a colorful read that can entertain kids while also opening the door to conversations about love, loss, responsibility, and belonging.
Pages: 53 | ISBN : 978-1-7381704-0-1
The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies: Essential Tips to Recognize, Respond, and Prepare for Dog Emergencies
Dr. Gal Chivvis delivers a lifesaving resource with The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies, a must-have manual for every dog parent. This comprehensive guide offers expert advice on identifying and managing canine health crises, making it indispensable for navigating moments when swift action is critical.
The book tackles the 10 most common dog emergencies and the 10 most frequent toxic exposures, providing step-by-step instructions for what symptoms to watch for, how to respond, and when veterinary intervention is necessary. With crystal-clear language and zero fluff, Dr. Chivvis distills complex medical concepts into actionable guidance anyone can follow.
Equipped with practical checklists, visual aids, and quick-reference charts, the guide empowers owners to assess situations rapidly and respond with confidence. Additional tools, such as a canine first-aid kit checklist, emergency medical forms, and seizure management protocols, further enhance readiness for the unexpected.
What sets this book apart is its thoughtful design. Information is structured for immediate use, even under stress. During emergencies, when panic can cloud judgment, the streamlined layout helps readers locate critical details in seconds. The poisoning section, in particular, is eye-opening, shedding light on everyday substances that pose hidden threats to dogs.
Dr. Chivvis, a seasoned emergency veterinarian, writes with a clarity rarely seen in medical literature. Despite her deep expertise, she steers clear of technical jargon, instead opting for direct explanations that feel accessible and supportive. Her compassionate tone reassures rather than alarms, offering guidance without ever minimizing the gravity of a situation.
This isn’t just a book, it’s a tool for empowerment. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or an experienced handler, The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies will sharpen your instincts and prepare you for critical moments. Keep it within reach. Few resources combine practicality, empathy, and expertise as seamlessly as this one.
Pages: 171 | ASIN : B0DYWVYBSC
Sasha the Lab Retriever
The picture book Sasha the Lab Retriever tells the sweet and simple story of Sasha, a black Labrador, and her fun-filled life with the narrator’s uncles. Sasha is a loyal and energetic dog who spends her days learning commands, helping out on hunting trips, and enjoying the snowy outdoors. The story follows her through her favorite activities, from fetching in the woods to taking long rides in a truck, with plenty of cozy moments of love and play sprinkled throughout.
One thing I loved about this children’s book was how clear and straightforward the writing was. It’s the kind of language that would make any child understand and relate to Sasha’s playful spirit. The way Sasha is described helping her uncles, like retrieving birds during hunting trips, made me smile.
The illustrations are just as warm and inviting as the story itself. They look like photographs that were turned into artwork. They do a great job capturing Sasha’s joy. The picture where Sasha is stretched out after a nap is an adorable highlight. But, I think the book could’ve added more dynamic scenes. Sasha’s adventures, like swimming or riding in the truck, are sweet, but I was left wanting more movement in the images to match the action described. Despite that, there’s something charming about the homey art style that fits the book’s gentle tone.
Another thing that stood out to me was the theme of loyalty and love. The bond between Sasha and her owners is wholesome. Sasha’s eagerness to help, to play, and just to be close to her uncles made me think of the dogs I’ve known and loved.
I’d recommend Sasha the Lab Retriever to young readers, especially dog lovers. It’s a great bedtime read for kids who adore stories about pets and want to see the loyalty and joy a dog can bring to a family. The story has a calming and happy vibe that’s perfect for winding down.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 978-1778137365
Dog is Dog
Vincent A. Watson’s Dog is Dog is a charming poetic reflection on self-acceptance, framed through the eyes of a lovable, unapologetically authentic dog. The poem emphasizes how the dog never tries to be anything it’s not, such as a cat, a lion, or a bird. The author’s clear and simple language makes this work accessible to readers of all ages, but its deeper message about embracing who you are and not comparing yourself to others strikes a chord that resonates universally.
The writing is playful and rhythmic, which brings a lighthearted yet profound quality to the poem. I loved how Watson used humor and whimsy to convey his message. For instance, one of my favorite lines goes, “Dog is dog and never tries to be a cow / Dogs don’t go ‘moooooo’ they don’t know how.” The silliness of imagining a dog mooing makes the poem delightful for young readers while driving home the point that dogs—and people—shouldn’t pretend to be something they’re not. The simplicity of the language adds to the charm, making it easy to read aloud and fun to share.
One of the most striking aspects of the poem is its repetition, which reinforces the central idea: being true to yourself. Each stanza follows a similar structure, starting with “Dog is dog and never tries to be” and then humorously pointing out the absurdity of a dog attempting to act like another creature. This consistent pattern gives the poem a musical quality and makes the message memorable. I found it comforting, like a gentle reminder, especially for young readers who benefit from such repetition to fully grasp important lessons.
Watson’s heartfelt dedication to his children and “all the kids around the world” adds a layer of sincerity to the work. There’s an undeniable warmth to his words as if the author is directly speaking to children, encouraging them to embrace their individuality. The closing lines—“Dogs are happy being dogs, so be happy being yourself too!”—encapsulate the book’s theme beautifully. This message made me smile, and it reminded me of the universal struggle we all face to feel confident in our own skin, no matter our age.
Dog is Dog is a delightful and uplifting read that would be perfect for young children, teachers looking for engaging classroom material, or even adults who appreciate a gentle nudge toward self-acceptance. If you’re searching for a book that delivers an essential message wrapped in humor and joy, I’d highly recommend giving this one a read. Watson’s simple yet powerful words remind us all that there’s only one you—and that’s more than enough.
Pages: 28 : ASIN : B0C3G2GY5X
Wow Bow, the Dog Who Barked Backwards
Wow Bow, The Dog Who Barked Backwards, by Milt Lowe, is a heartwarming tale about a dog with a unique bark and an even more unique journey. The story follows Wow Bow, a loveable mix of different breeds, as he embarks on an adventure that leads him to discover the true meaning of friendship, self-worth, and loyalty. Wow Bow faces hardships, from being abandoned by his mother to dealing with bullies, but through it all, he remains resilient, eventually finding his place with a young blind boy, Otto, who sees beyond his differences. The book intertwines humor, life lessons, and touching moments, making it a delightful read for children and adults alike.
What I found most endearing about this book was how Milt Lowe managed to create a world that felt both whimsical and real. Lowe’s writing is simple, but it carries emotional weight. For example, Wow Bow’s relationship with Lupa, the lone wolf, is particularly moving. Their bond feels genuine, and their adventures—like sledding down hills or navigating the dangerous Rushing River—add depth to their friendship. Wow Bow’s interactions with Lupa help shape his confidence, teaching him valuable lessons about standing up for himself. This story about embracing differences resonates on multiple levels and makes you root for Wow Bow even more.
Another standout element in the book is its humor, which comes through in both character interactions and situations. The animals Wow Bow meets on his journey, like Mr. Prickles the porcupine and the laughing hyena, Teena, each add quirky charm to the narrative. The way Lowe portrays Wow Bow’s “backward bark” not as a defect but as a strength is clever. This backward bark is what sets Wow Bow apart and ultimately endears him to Otto, the blind boy. It’s these little touches of humor and heart that make the book so engaging, especially for younger readers.
Wow Bow’s abandonment and the subsequent bullying he endures make certain parts of the story feel sadder than one might expect in a children’s book. His time in the dog pound, for example, when he’s bullied by the other dogs, adds a layer of tension that made me feel genuinely anxious for Wow Bow. But this realism only adds to the story’s emotional depth. Lowe doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities that Wow Bow faces, making his eventual happiness all the more satisfying.
Wow Bow, The Dog Who Barked Backwards is an excellent book for children and adults alike. It’s especially suited for young readers who enjoy animal stories with adventure, humor, and heartfelt moments. If you appreciate books that teach life lessons about embracing differences, resilience, and finding your place in the world, this one is a must-read. It’s a quirky, funny, and moving tale for all ages.
Pages: 92 | ASIN: B0DH7V2WZV
A Lifetime With a Great Dog is a Gift
The Human Canine Connection is a comprehensive guide that delves deep into the intricacies of building and nurturing the bond between humans and their canine companions. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I have always thought, “No one writes a book unless they have something to say.” This statement is especially true of my book, “The Human Canine Connection: Enriching Your Life by Loving Your Dog.”
I think it’s because I believe in unconditional love and lifelong companionship. A lifetime with a great dog is a gift. In this book, I emphasize that dogs are like family.
However, many people may want to avoid interacting with dogs. I can respect that perspective, too.
However, if dog ownership is a precious gift with many benefits, we should consider it, especially at the psychological and emotional levels. For instance, nothing is more comforting than having my 120-pound Akbash Pup lay at my feet while I sit at my desk to write the responses to these questions. Over time, this shared relationship between a human and a canine is profound, even for life.
This thought might seem trivial or even familiar, but is it accurate? Do we often overlook or even take humans’ relationship with dogs for granted? Canine Trainers refer to this intimacy as a “Bluetooth Connection,” which is fundamental to nurturing a healthy relationship with a dog. Rather than dismiss the reality of these priceless moments, I wrote a book about this dynamic so that people might see and hear how dog ownership enriches and benefits both species during our limited time on this planet.
I hope readers walk away with hope and gratitude as current dog owners and the possibilities that come with adopting their first canine kid. Regardless of the breed or the animal’s temperament, which can seem daunting initially, I have a book that offers the dog ownership community hope that makes life simpler yet mutually enriching.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As I stated on the back cover of my book, “Life is a tapestry of unique experiences, some of which we can only hope to capture in a lifetime. As I began creating “The Human Canine Connection,” I delved deep into my unique experiences and reflections on dog ownership. The truth is that perfection is a myth. Yet, many of us strive to provide the best home for our canine companions. This book is a practical guide, a living collection of stories, research, and articles from everyday dog owners like you and me. It’s a resource for dog ownership and positive pet care guidance. I hope you, the reader, will cherish the precious moments with your furry friend today. Remember, we only get one chance to raise a great canine kid.”
What is a common misconception you feel people have about dog training?
Humans often forget that dogs are emotional creatures. Like any emotions people have, dogs need their master to identify and address them. Therefore, Chapter One: Decoding Dog Behaviour is essential. However, this discipline requires a dog owner to know himself. What are his fears and challenges, and what makes him feel secure as a human? If humans can harness this principle, dogs can mature, be healthy, and be safe in their environment.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be published?
My latest work is a book I just published. It is a Christian Book titled “The Divine Initiative and The Human Response.” Much like this book on understanding the relationship between canines and humans, this Christian read addresses the relationship humans can share with God through faith in Jesus Christ. The book identifies the human need for God, community, and creation, a profound reality revealed to the human race through the holy scriptures of the Bible.
Author Links: Amazon | Book Review
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