Have you ever noticed how young children and dogs are a lot alike? Diverse, uninhibited, totally accepting — and prone to going to the toilet anywhere, anytime!
The key is to keep it that way (well, maybe not the toileting part!). That’s exactly why I wrote Chico the Schnauzer, the story of a young pup on the biggest playdate of his life with Susie the Sausage Dog, Penelope the Poodle and Digby the Dalmatian. Along the way, they discover that they may not be the same, but they are all incredible in their own way.
This is my fifth book, and it’s incredibly close to my heart. Not only because Chico is my real life fur baby and best friend, but because I know that this story will help kids embrace their bodies so they can be free to seek out more joy and adventure.
I am so grateful to my publisher @penguinbooksaus for helping me bring this book to life, and to Levi George for the stunning illustrations. And a huge, giant, enormous thank you to two of my kids, Miki and Jacob, for spending their weekends with me obsessing over dogs, studying their special skills and nailing the names for the characters. Digby the Dalmation — how good is that!
I know that if we can get in early and teach our young ones to celebrate the uniqueness of their precious bodies, and the power of accepting and embracing themselves, then we will set them up for a wonderful life.
Grab a copy of Chico the Schnauzer today.
