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Peaches and Jake and 19 Cobras Oh My!
Peaches and Jake and 19 Cobras Oh, My! continues the adventures of the two rescue pups as they try to make sense of the “19 Cobras” and the sneaky “Delta Very Aunts.” The story follows their daily life with Mommy while they travel in the RV, watch the house, get into trouble, break out of “jail,” help with chores, and try their absolute best to keep everyone safe. The book mixes playful photos with Peaches’s voice as she explains what she and Jake think is happening in the human world, especially with the pandemic. The whole thing feels like a scrapbook full of goofy snapshots and heartfelt moments.
This children’s book made me laugh way more than I expected. The humor sneaks up on you, like Peaches rolling her eyes on page 14 or Jake claiming he is “checking his eyelids for light leaks”. I kept cracking up at the jail scenes. The photo where Jake is literally smiling behind the glass while Peaches looks betrayed nearly had me wheezing. Their personalities shine through the pictures, which makes everything feel so real. The pandemic themes hit me in a weird but comforting way. It softens something that has felt heavy for years. Seeing it through two dogs who are earnest and clumsy and trying so hard gave the whole topic a gentleness I didn’t know I needed.
There were also moments that made me feel unexpectedly touched. Peaches worrying about Dolly. Jake teaching her things. The RV pretend driving scenes, especially the one where they trick people into thinking Jake is behind the wheel. It all feels like watching two little kids play make-believe, and it tugged at my chest. The author’s affection for them pours out of every page, and I felt wrapped up in that warmth. I love how the story jumps from serious things like vaccines to goofy fashion dilemmas. It mirrors how real life is, mixed and messy and sweet.
I think Peaches and Jake and 19 Cobras Oh My! is perfect for kids who need a lighthearted way to understand scary topics and for adults who want something that brings back a sense of comfort. It’s great for dog lovers, families, teachers, and anyone who just needs to smile. This picture book is playful, loving, and full of personality.
Pages: 64 | ASIN : B0DDZSSW72
Peaches and the 19 Cobras
Peaches and the 19 Cobras tells the story of Peaches and Jake, two sweet rescue dogs who misunderstand COVID-19 as “19 cobras” and spend the pandemic doing everything they can to protect their mom. The book moves through their daily adventures from quarantine in Florida to summers in Maine. There are masks and costumes, funny misunderstandings, shiny Christmas trees, and a whole lot of love. The dogs tell the story in their own voices, so the whole thing feels warm and comforting.
As I read it, I kept catching myself smiling. The writing feels like someone chatting with me in their kitchen. It’s simple in a good way and full of genuine emotion. The idea of hearing the pandemic through the ears of two confused and devoted dogs was surprisingly emotional. It reminded me of how strange that time was and how pets kind of carried so many of us through it. Some moments even made my eyes sting a little because the mix of humor and fear from that year still sits in my chest. Seeing the dogs try to make sense of everything made the whole memory softer for me.
I also loved how the book leans into joy. There are photos everywhere, and they’re adorable. The stories jump from masks that never stay on to gigantic Christmas trees to lobster dinners in Maine. It felt chaotic in a charming way. Like watching someone you love tell a story while getting distracted every few sentences. I honestly laughed out loud when the dogs kept ditching their masks or when Peaches tried to look fierce with her tiny warrior stance. The whole thing just felt honest. Not polished in a stiff way. More like real life with all the messiness and sweetness mixed together.
Peaches and the 19 Cobras is great for kids who want a gentle way to understand a heavy moment in history and for adults who want a soft, funny reminder of how we made it through. Anyone who loves animals or who leaned on a pet during the pandemic will feel this one. It’s light and goofy and unexpectedly touching. I’d happily pass it along to families, teachers, grandparents, and anyone who just needs a picture book that feels kind.
Pages: 88 | ASIN : B0DDW3GM88
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
LITERARY TITAN 