Blog Archives
True Meaning of Home
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.”
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Lucky is a Dog Diplomat with a nose for excitement and a big heart! His life in West Africa is full of sunshine and friends-but everything changes when his Diplomat Mom moves across the world. Now, Lucky has to take a huge trip all by himself, from West Africa all the way to the United States! Facing travel surprises, delays in Paris, and wondering who will be waiting on the other side, is Lucky brave enough to conquer these challenges?
Join Lucky as he discovers his inner courage and the true meaning of home! Perfect for any child who’s ever moved, missed someone far away, or simply loves dogs and adventures. This fun-filled journey proves that a brave heart can find fun, friendship, and a place to call home-no matter where in the world your paws may land!
A Gentle Giant
In Barney, the Big Brown Dog!, a Labrador Retriever’s life is changed when his elderly owner must give him up and he begins his journey to find a new family. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Barney was such a love and his day-to-day presence and routine always put a smile on my face! After he had passed, I said one day that I would write a story about him, and I kept my word. Just like his presence, I loved every minute writing this story about him and so pleased to come to this moment and be able to share this story with children and families. One other thing I would like to add. Due to Barney’s quiet demeanor, I was able to bring him where ever I went. He was by my side almost anywhere. I never had that opportunity with a pet before.
Barney was a gentle giant, a Labrador with a heart as big as his frame. He came into our lives at just the right time, a silent, loving way about him when we needed him the most. With his shy and his lumbering gait, he seemed to walk through life with the innocence of a child and with his soft large brown eyes asking for acceptance and love.
He wasn’t just a dog, he was a large, brown bear who found his way into our family’s rhythm, offering affection in his own special way. Barney never barked which was part of his charm and shyness! Every room he entered was greeted with the subtle thud of his paws, or the thump of his tail beating against the floor, letting you know how he was happy to see you; in addition to the unspoken promise that his presence would never be a burden, only a comfort.
Is there anything from your own life included in Barney’s story?
Receiving two hours’ notice before his arrival was very true! Our cat graciously accepted Barney and this was not the norm for her at all. The two were like close buddies. The children, including our neighbors adored him.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Rebecca Popp?
Among any of the illustrators whom I interviewed, Rebecca could read me. We connected very well. Her samples reflected just what I was looking for…one particular sample of her art had a scenery with greens and blues and her sketches of the animals and children were life-like. I wanted a presence of family, home, colors that were inviting, not scary or intimidating, and Rebecca did just that! When I gave Rebecca a description to reflect a chapter, she provided everything I requested including a little humor too.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
With trying not to give away too much, I have drafted two books.
Barney meets two dogs (pups) who become service dogs. This is in memory of my older brother who became blind at the age of five. I hope this story will be published December 2025 or by February 2026.
My other book is Hunter and Spencer are curious to learn more about their religion and of their friends’ religions and beliefs. Learning about the diversity and understanding of various religions and learn that they can believe. Barney and Charlie are in the background of this story too! This story is one that I am most excited about creating. My timeline for this book is hopefully by April 2026.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Barney, the Big Brown Dog!
In Barney, The Big Brown Dog by Patrice LeMoine, readers are introduced to Barney, a lovable yet uncertain brown Labrador Retriever whose life is about to change. His elderly owner can no longer care for him, and as a result, he is being driven to a new family that will take him in temporarily. However, at the last moment, plans fall through, leaving Barney unexpectedly homeless. The driver, after some reflection, decides to reach out to her sister and her family, hoping they might provide the shelter and care Barney so desperately needs. Fortunately, they welcome him, offering a temporary haven.
Upon arrival, Barney’s sheer size astonishes everyone. This massive Labrador, though affectionate, is undeniably clumsy, often struggling in tight spaces. Despite this, his new family does their best to accommodate him, understanding that Barney has nowhere else to go. The central question lingers: Can Barney adapt to his new surroundings? Will this temporary home become permanent?
I found this story deeply touching, and I have no doubt that children will be equally captivated. The heartache of Barney losing his original home due to circumstances beyond his control tugs at the emotions, making readers yearn for him to find the love and stability he deserves. When he is taken in at the last moment, hope blossoms that this family will ultimately become his forever home. The story beautifully conveys a powerful lesson: appearances and first impressions should never dictate judgment. Despite Barney’s imposing size and initial awkwardness, what truly matters is his loving nature and his earnest attempt to fit into his new environment.
Initially, I worried that Barney’s size would hinder his chances of finding even temporary shelter. My concern deepened when he was relegated to sleeping in the den alongside Charlie, the family’s cat. Would they get along? Would Barney’s occasional mishaps jeopardize his place in the home? With every misstep, tension builds, making readers anxious about his fate. Yet, despite the challenges, the ending is heartwarming and fulfilling, imparting an invaluable lesson to young readers: perseverance and patience can lead to beautiful outcomes, even when life takes unexpected turns.
The book is further enhanced by the vibrant illustrations of Rebecca Popp. Her colorful, expressive artwork breathes life into Barney’s adventures, making each page a delight to explore. Readers will find themselves grinning at Barney’s endearing expressions and laughing at his playful antics. Impressively, this book marks Ms. Popp’s debut as a published illustrator, a noteworthy accomplishment given her lifelong passion for the craft.
Barney, The Big Brown Dog is a heartwarming tale that resonates with readers of all ages. It’s a story of resilience, love, and the simple yet profound desire for belonging. From start to finish, Barney’s journey is one that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
Pennygirl’s Rescue
Pennygirl’s Rescue, by Judy McGee, is a heartfelt story about Penny, a lovable Lab mix with a heart as big as her floppy ears. The story follows Penny’s journey from a Texas farm, where she shared her days with Grandma Adeline and a menagerie of farm animals, to a bustling dog shelter, and finally, to a forever home in Ontario. Along the way, Penny displays courage, loyalty, and patience, warming the hearts of everyone she meets, from the shelter volunteers to the readers who cheer her on.
McGee’s writing is charming and evocative, full of warmth and gentle humor. The descriptions of Penny’s antics and personality are vivid. McGee captures Penny’s innocence and joy with such clarity that I felt like I was right there in the shelter yard watching her explore. The central theme of rescue and second chances shines brightly. Penny’s unwavering optimism, even in the face of uncertainty, resonates deeply. Her bravery during Grandma Adeline’s fall, rushing to fetch help, showcases a profound message: even the smallest actions can make a big difference.
One standout moment was Penny’s encounter with the bullfrog during her walk with Tammy. It’s a perfect snapshot of Penny’s playful, curious nature, and it brought some lightheartedness to the story. The announcement of Penny’s adoption was another highlight. The excitement in the shelter was palpable, and I genuinely felt happy for Penny, who had patiently waited for her turn. McGee captures these moments with simplicity and sincerity, making them all the more impactful.
Pennygirl’s Rescue is a delightful read for animal lovers, especially those who have a soft spot for rescue stories. The book’s simplicity makes it an excellent choice for children, but the emotional depth will tug at the heartstrings of adult readers too. If you enjoy stories about courage, kindness, and the bond between humans and animals, this book is worth picking up. Just be ready to fall in love with Penny—you’ll be wagging your imaginary tail right along with her.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DN1SBCH1
Choosing Animal Companions
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten follows a shy little kitten who is accidentally left behind when her family moves and must find a way to survive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Since I was a child I have been rescuing cats and kittens from the streets and from shelters. I feel the suffering of abandoned animals acutely. And each one brought me so much happiness in return, with their love and their marvelous, unique personalities. But many had been traumatized. It took time, patience, and genuine commitment to win their trust.
When I wrote Sally Mitts Finds A Home, I wanted to show people that every animal, like every human being, comes with a formative backstory that we don’t know. And it’s important to approach them with compassion and humility.
The animals that people often bypass in shelters -the quiet ones, the seniors, the special needs animals – are so very deserving of love and attention, too. And they are often the most euphorically loving. I hope Sally Mitts’s story encourages people to look beyond the surface when choosing animal companions and consider them.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
That’s really a toss-up between when Sally discovers the wonders of a garden after always living inside a house, and when she is happy in her new home.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
It helps children learn:
~How to cope with unexpected situations
~How to discern and trust good instincts
~To empathize with others’ experiences
~To understand the importance of adoption
~kindness to animals
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Sally Mitts and the direction of the second book?
The second book, Sally Mitts And The Land Of Imagination will be published on October 26, 2024. In it, Sally follows some shoes who are walking along without any feet in them to a mysterious red door with the word IMAGINATION written over it. Inside the door, she meets fantastical creatures, paints the sky, meets a shirty mole, engages a fog monster, and has many adventures and challenges.
Our imaginations fire the dreams that we long to come true. And Sally discovers that you can do what you really want to if you follow those longings.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Website | Amazon
PURPLE DRAGONFLY BOOK AWARD
For fans of spunky heroines, Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story Of A Shy Shelter Kitten is a heartwarming tale about a lost kitten who finds her way back to love and home.
Accidentlally left behind, brave little Sally weaves her way though adventures on city streets and gardens. Ending up in ananimal shelter, she learns about the lives of other street cats, especially her good friend, the spirited Charlie the Tailless. But when Charlie is adopted, gentle Sally finds herself very shy with potential adopters. The shelter keepers worry Sally is too shy to ever be adopted. Until a quiet man offers her the chance to trust again.
From this warm and touching story, children learn about facing new situations, the power of friendship, learning empathy for others, and trusting good instincts.
Instill Kindness and Compassion
Rufus Finds His Way Home follows a teacher at an international school in Thailand who discovers a family of dogs and takes care of them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup of my story is inspired by my commitment to rescuing dogs and adopting street strays, as there are many dogs in need of a forever home. Rufus, an intelligent, loyal, sweet, and devoted dog despite his rough start, exemplifies this belief. As an elementary school teacher with over 20 years of experience, I aim to instill kindness and compassion in my students, values I believe are crucial in today’s world. The story, Rufus Finds His Way Home, is a fictionalized account based on Rufus’s real-life journey, which began in Rayong, Thailand, in 2013. I’ve tried to make my narrative showcase the power of love and the importance of giving all creatures a chance at a better life.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Ayan Mansoori?
The collaboration with illustrator Ayan Mansoori was a seamless and rewarding experience. Ayan, a talented artist based in India, was chosen for his unique style and portfolio, which perfectly captured the essence of what I envisioned for Rufus in illustrated form. We went through many, many revisions to get the illustrations just right, ensuring that every detail reflected the character’s spirit and the story’s tone. The final artwork exceeded my expectations, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the results. Ayan’s talent and dedication have been invaluable, and I’m thrilled to announce that he will continue as the illustrator for the next book in the series.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In crafting this children’s book, it was crucial to incorporate educational aspects that emphasize spreading kindness and compassion, fundamental values I strive to instill in young readers. Beyond these core themes, another important aspect was to create a strong emotional connection with Rufus, allowing readers to experience the same affection and bond I felt when I first met him in 2013. By fostering empathy and understanding through Rufus’s journey, the story aims to teach children the importance of caring for others, both human and animal.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, Rufus Finds His Way Home is the first book in a planned series exploring the many adventures of Rufus, our lovable rescue dog. I’m thrilled to announce that the second book, Rufus Finds His Calm, will be released on September 1, 2024. In this heartwarming sequel, Rufus faces new challenges as he moves to a new home. As he navigates the anxiety and fear that come with big changes, Rufus learns to find his calm with the love and support of his family. This story draws a parallel between Rufus’s experiences and the feelings children sometimes face, demonstrating that everyone can discover their inner peace with a little help. Perfect for young readers, Rufus’s journey is a tale of courage, friendship, and finding joy in new beginnings.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Then Mr. Parsons has an even worse surprise: Rufus goes missing. The worried teacher searches the entire school grounds…and even plunges into the pool! But to Mr. Parsons’ dismay, Rufus is nowhere to be found. Where will Mr. Parsons find his beloved dog? Will there be a happy ending for the puppy with the key to Mr. Parsons’ heart?
Rufus Finds His Way Home is a delightful book based on the author’s true-life story. Children will fall for this adorable little puppy, and they’ll be touched by the tale of a teacher’s devotion. Filled with beautiful illustrations, this heartfelt story encourages its audience to care for all creatures. Readers will also discover that, in this diverse world, everyone is deserving of love. A testament to the power of kindness, this memorable book contains an important lesson.
Engaging Content
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? follows a curious young boy and his parents who decide it is time to get a family pet. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Curious Chris-Why No Flamingos? was our son Chris who was very curious. He used the word, “falingmo,” for the word flamingo, and I wanted to find a way to use it in a story. I incorporated the way we got our dog, Charlie, from our local pet shelter, and thus the story was born.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As a former English teacher, I know how important it is to create engaging content, so young readers will want to read more. I want children to know that curiosity is encouraged, yet parents may need help sometimes. In addition, I want everyone to know that pet adoption is the best way for people to get a new pet. Finally, many times, children are not going to get their way, so I wanted to offer a story for young readers to see a child pivot when his/her dream isn’t available.
The collaboration with illustrator Sally Garland resulted in exceptional art in this book. How was the process managed, and what were some of the key factors that contributed to the successful outcome?
Sally Garland is an amazing illustrator, and she and I consulted prior to her illustrating my story. She wanted to create a scene where Chris dreamed of a perfect scenario of Chris and his falingmo which is how she created the swimming pool scene.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
As of right now, this is the only book and not a series, and I have not thought of a follow-up book as of right now. However, I will never say never.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
“Why is the sky blue? Why doesn’t the sun smoke if it’s so hot? Why can’t it rain cotton candy?”
His exhausted parents decide it’s time for a pet. For the first time, Chris has no questions to ask because he knows exactly the pet to choose. But when adoption day finally arrives, Chris needs to make a choice. Will he find his pet at the local animal shelter?
Misty and Luna
Prepare to be whisked away into the charming world of Misty, a lovable and carefree dog full of anticipation. As she waits patiently for her owner’s return, her imagination dances with the delightful possibilities of the treats that might be in store. But little does she know, the surprise of a lifetime is about to shake up her world. In Misty and Luna, by A.M. Page, the unexpected arrival of a cat named Luna takes Misty by surprise. Misty’s heart is aflutter, and she is full of questions. Why did her human bring home this strange feline creature? Change is often a daunting prospect, and Misty, like many of us, grapples with this uncertainty. Misty discovers the touching truth behind Luna’s arrival. Luna was homeless, and their human rescued her. Empathy tugs at Misty’s heartstrings as she realizes that Luna, just like herself, had been saved from a difficult situation. Through this newfound understanding, Misty learns the power of compassion and opens her heart to her new feline sister.
Misty and Luna is a heartwarming children’s book that imparts an essential lesson to young readers: the importance of extending friendship and kindness to others, regardless of our initial reservations. The story’s beginning, with Misty joyfully doing ‘zoomies’ with excitement, grabs your attention and sets the tone for an engaging adventure. What makes this picture book truly special is that it is narrated from Misty’s perspective, allowing readers to see the world through her eyes. Misty’s descriptions of Luna add a delightful touch of humor and warmth to the narrative. This children’s book is a perfect tool for teaching young readers the value of adaptability and the beauty of forming new friendships. The illustrations are nothing short of enchanting, immersing readers in Misty’s world as if they are watching an animated cartoon come to life.
Misty and Luna is a captivating story that encourages children to embrace change, extend a hand of friendship, and see the beauty in making new connections. Misty and Luna’s charming adventures are bound to leave a smile on your face. Dive into this world of friendship, and you’ll be enchanted by Misty and Luna’s heartwarming journey.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CFDJ3TJL
LITERARY TITAN 