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Literary Titan Book Award: Nonfiction
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes outstanding nonfiction books that demonstrate exceptional quality in writing, research, and presentation. This award is dedicated to authors who excel in creating informative, enlightening, and engaging works that offer valuable insights. Recipients of this award are commended for their ability to transform complex topics into accessible and compelling narratives that captivate readers and enhance our understanding.
Award Recipients
Mythical Creatures: The Worldbuilding Guide to Korean Fantasy by Huck Kahng
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Clear, Trustworthy Information
The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies is a lifesaving resource manual for every dog owner that offers expert advice on identifying and managing canine health crises. Why was this an important book for you to write?
As an emergency veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of accurate, accessible information can impact both pets and their families. In some cases, owners wait too long to seek care because they mistakenly believe a situation isn’t urgent—only to arrive when the pet is much sicker and harder to treat. In other situations, well-meaning owners may unintentionally make things worse at home due to misunderstandings about what to do. On the flip side, I also see people rushing to the ER out of concern, only to learn the issue could have been safely managed at home. While it’s always better to err on the side of caution, that stress—emotional and financial—can often be reduced with a little guidance. Additionally, while ERs are here to help, keeping animals out of the ER that do not need to be there helps reduce overcrowding and waiting times.
I wrote The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies to help bridge that knowledge gap. I believe that when pet owners are empowered with clear, trustworthy information, they can make better decisions, act with more confidence, and ultimately improve outcomes for their dogs. This book is about providing that support, in a practical and approachable way.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
There were several key ideas I felt were important to include in this book. First, I wanted to give pet owners practical, hands-on skills they could use to assess their dog’s stability. I developed what I call the “Emergency Toolkit”—a set of basic but essential evaluation techniques like checking gum color, assessing hydration, monitoring breathing rate and effort, pain assessment, and more. These skills are designed to help owners assess critical markers of stability, communicate more effectively with veterinary professionals, and take action with greater confidence.
I also wanted to make sure pet owners are prepared before an emergency ever occurs. That includes having veterinary contact information readily available, leaving behind useful details when traveling or using pet sitters, and understanding what types of information are most helpful to share with the veterinary team. To support that, I created a collection of practical forms that guide owners through these situations. These resources are embedded in the book and also available for free through my website or by email request.
What advice do you have for new dog owners to help them be prepared for emergencies?
New and seasoned dog owners alike can sometimes feel uncertain when it comes to their pet’s health—and that’s completely normal. One of the best things you can do is take time to get to know your individual dog and learn a bit about the breed—common health tendencies, any predispositions, and what’s considered normal behavior. Establishing a relationship with a regular veterinarian is also key. Your vet is a valuable resource for guidance, preventive care, and answering the questions that naturally come up over time.
Most importantly, I always encourage owners to trust their instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s okay to ask questions. And if you’re genuinely worried, it’s better to have your dog seen—even if the issue turns out to be minor—than to wait and risk missing something more serious. Being proactive is one of the best ways to care for your dog. Your veterinarians are here to support you!
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies?
The thing I hope readers take away from The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies is that they can play an active, informed role in their dog’s care—even in urgent situations. Emergencies are never easy, but having a clearer understanding of what to watch for and how to respond can take away some of the uncertainty. My goal is to help pet owners feel more prepared, more confident, better able to support their dog when something unexpected comes up and trust their instincts when concerns arise.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
Emergencies can happen in an instant—would you know when to act?
Written by a seasoned emergency veterinarian, The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies is a must-have resource for every dog owner. This practical and easy-to-follow guide gives you the knowledge to recognize warning signs, take immediate action, and seek veterinary care when it matters most. Whether your dog is facing a sudden collapse, poisoning, heatstroke, or severe injury, this book equips you with a clear and actionable emergency toolkit—so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Inside, you’ll learn:
The 10 most common dog health emergencies—what they are and when to act fast
The 10 most common toxic exposures—what’s dangerous and how to respond
How to assess your dog’s condition at home and recognize when urgent care is needed
Proactive strategies to help prevent emergencies and keep your dog safe
Guidance that empowers you to trust your instincts when something feels off
Bonus Resources to Help You Prepare:
First aid supplies checklist to ensure you’re ready when it matters most
Pet care and medical authorization form for emergency situations
Sick visit information sheet to help streamline your veterinary visit
Decision tree for managing seizures, making it easier to take the right steps
Response charts for various situations, including pain, overheating, allergic reactions, breathing concerns, bite wounds, and more
Your dog depends on you in an emergency. This book gives you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to act—because every second counts. Get your copy today!
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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.
Mommy’s Boy: How My Doggie Soulmate’s Love Rescued Me
Jennifer Huston Schaeffer’s Mommy’s Boy is a heartfelt memoir about love, loss, and healing through the unwavering companionship of a dog. At its core, it’s a story about finding solace in an unexpected place, through a scruffy little rescue dog named Benny. Through the ups and downs of heartbreak, personal struggles, and self-discovery, Schaeffer delivers a moving narrative that dog lovers, and anyone who’s ever found comfort in an animal’s presence, will deeply relate to. The book follows her journey from childhood pet bonds to a mid-life realization that the truest love she’d ever known came not from relationships with men, but from the love of her four-legged soulmate.
Schaeffer doesn’t shy away from vulnerability, whether it’s reliving the ache of a bad breakup, the loneliness creeping into her forties, or the frustration of the grueling dog adoption process. The chapter “Fortysomething Woman Seeks Four-Legged Soulmate” was both hilarious and painfully relatable, as she details rejection after rejection from dog rescues that deemed her unfit simply because she had a full-time job. The way she lays it all out, no sugarcoating, no pretentiousness makes her easy to root for. When she finally finds Benny (formerly “Boo”), it’s impossible not to feel an overwhelming sense of joy and relief.
Schaeffer has a gift for capturing the tiny but powerful moments of life, the kind that make up love, loss, and growth. One of the most touching aspects of the book is the way she illustrates Benny’s impact on her world. It’s not just about cuddles and companionship; it’s about how he pulled her out of darkness, gave her purpose, and, in a way, saved her from herself. “He ignited a spark in my heart that had been dormant for years,” she writes, describing how her world shifted from grayscale to full color when Benny came into her life. The chapter “Mommy’s Secret” is a standout, where she acknowledges that while society often expects women to find fulfillment through romance and motherhood, her greatest love story was unfolding with a little white dog.
But Mommy’s Boy isn’t just a feel-good dog book; it’s raw, emotional, and sometimes devastating. The later chapters, particularly “A New Diagnosis and Two Crushing Losses,” hit hard. Schaeffer doesn’t hold back on the realities of pet parenthood, the looming dread of eventual loss, the helplessness of seeing a beloved companion in pain. It’s impossible to read without a lump forming in your throat. At times, I had to pause just to absorb the weight of it. The book perfectly captures the paradox of pet love: knowing from the start that they will break your heart someday, yet loving them with everything you have anyway.
Mommy’s Boy is an absolute must-read for dog lovers, but it’s more than just a pet memoir. It’s for anyone who’s ever rebuilt themselves after heartbreak, found love in unexpected places, or realized that sometimes, the best relationships aren’t the ones we’re conditioned to chase. It’s a book that makes you laugh, cry, and maybe even hug your dog a little tighter. If you’ve ever known the kind of love that only a dog can give, this book will feel like home.
Dog’s Intrinsic Desire
In Beyond Treats, an aspiring dog trainer tackles training a particularly difficult rescue and, through her experience, offers readers alternatives to treat-reliant training. Why was this an important book for you to write?
My mission was never about profit. It was to save dogs from being euthanized or surrendered. Too many dogs end up in shelters due to receiving bad advice. Through education, many inappropriate behaviours can be prevented so we can keep more dogs with families. The pound and shelters are overflowing with dogs. Even if one more dog is saved, my life is complete.
The technique of offering information through the use of narrative was refreshing. What was the inspiration for this writing style?
I actually wrote two books. My first book used a traditional nonfiction style but I wanted the book to be more accessible. I then rewrote the book while weaving a fictional engaging narrative. Frankly, people absorb information better through emotional learning than academic textbooks. I wanted to talk to my readers through the heart, make a connection and inspire them to be better leaders/parents for their dogs.
What is one misconception you think most people have about dog training?
The biggest problem is that most people go to their vet for their dog’s behaviour issues. That is like going to a plumber for your electrical problems. Vets are great but they specialize in clinical issues. The other problem is that people often turn to people online for advice. Unfortunately, bad advice can get a dog killed.
As far as misconceptions, people have been taught that the only way to get a dog to obey is through treats. This creates a mercenary transactional expectation of “pay to play”, meaning “no treat, no tricks”.
Instead, my method inspires readers to activate their dog’s intrinsic desire to please, much like a child’s desire to seek a parent’s approval.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
Don’t go to your vet for behaviour advice. I offer a free service where you can get detailed step by step instructions to address your dog’s behaviour needs. No credit cards required.
Why? It’s not about profit. It’s about saving dogs from being surrendered or euthanised. Ignorance can get a dog killed. I can not stand by and let this happen.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Discover a new, effective way to train your dog without constant bribery or outdated techniques. This groundbreaking book introduces a leadership-based approach that promotes lasting change and strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Key Benefits You’ll Gain from “Beyond Treats”
Effective, Force-Free Training
Learn practical, humane strategies that address common behavior problems without relying on treats, fear, or force.
Lasting Behavioral Change
Move beyond temporary fixes that rely on treats by fostering trust and respect, ensuring your dog’s obedience is genuine and enduring.
Easy-to-Understand Story Format
Follow the relatable journey of Emily and her dog Buddy, making complex concepts simple and engaging through storytelling.
Solutions for Common Issues
Tackle everyday challenges like leash pulling, barking, and anxiety with actionable guidance.
Build a Stronger Bond
Develop a deeper connection with your dog by becoming a calm, confident leader they naturally respect and want to follow.
Empowerment for Owners
Gain the confidence to communicate clearly and effectively, creating a harmonious relationship with your dog.
Save Time and Money
Avoid endless reliance on expensive treats or professional trainers by mastering these techniques yourself.
Ready to transform your dog’s behavior?
Say goodbye to frustration and hello to a respectful, obedient pet.
Pick up “Beyond Treats” today.
Your dog will thank you for it!
Beyond Treats: Revolutionary Dog Training for Lasting Behaviour Change
George Tran’s Beyond Treats takes a heartfelt, story-based dive into dog training, where empathy meets structure, and leadership replaces force. Told through Emily’s journey—an aspiring dog trainer navigating her bond with a troubled rescue, Buddy—the book combines an emotional narrative with Tran’s leadership-based dog training philosophy. It’s a must-read for those frustrated by conventional treat-reliant methods, offering a refreshing alternative that centers around mutual respect and lasting behavioral change.
The writing is simple, engaging, and descriptive. Emily’s transformation from a disillusioned store manager to a confident dog behaviorist is inspiring. The chapters cleverly weave dog training tips into her personal story, making it easy to follow and apply the lessons. The Leadership Walk, introduced in Chapter 8, showcases the importance of establishing boundaries. This “dance” between dog and owner reflects Tran’s belief in structured guidance over coddling, a message that resonates powerfully through Emily’s learning curve. The middle chapters were both engaging and thought-provoking. Chapter 12’s discussion on jumping behavior particularly stood out for its practical advice and actionable insights.
While the emphasis on leadership is a recurring theme, Tran’s passion and clarity shine through, reinforcing the importance of his methods. The book’s critique of treat-based training is compelling and encourages readers to rethink common approaches. Tran makes a convincing case for exploring alternatives to treats, highlighting the benefits of fostering genuine respect and connection with your dog.
What truly shines is the emotional depth of Emily’s connection with Buddy. The story highlights how trust and leadership can transform even the most challenging dogs. The author sensitively explores the psychology behind reactivity, offering actionable strategies while keeping the narrative emotionally grounded.
Beyond Treats, by George Tran, is more than a dog training guide, it’s a manifesto for compassionate leadership. It’s perfect for dog owners at their wits’ end with misbehavior, rescue advocates, or anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of canine psychology. The blend of story and science makes it both insightful and entertaining. Whether you’re a dog lover or just curious, this book is worth your time—and your dog’s wagging tail will thank you.
Pages: 224 | ASIN : B0DM699R6P
LITERARY TITAN 