Please Explain Terrorism to Me: A Story for Children, P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom for Their Parents by Book By Laurie Zelinger and Ann Israeli

A Story for Children, P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom for their Parents 

Complemented by exquisite, colorful artwork, Dr. Zelinger skillfully crafts an easily relatable children's story using everyday situations, around the oppressive concept of Terrorism in the news. With masterful understanding of the child's world, new and frightening concepts are introduced carefully and gently, with the child's perspective in mind. Dr. Zelinger provides parent coaching to further the dialogue in her P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom section (Prepare, Explain, Answer, Reassure, Listen, Safeguard) where caregivers are given scripts to guide them, as well room for individuality. This pioneer book helps children and parents face a critical, often avoided topic with reassurance and calm.

"This book provides the 'PEARLS' of wisdom for parents and children to discuss a scary topic like terrorism in ways that promote healthy and authentic parent-child conversations that yield to mutual respect and bonding." 

--Marc A. Brackett, PhD., Director, Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence

"Deep and yet accessible, her remarkable deciphering of the psychological factors that hinder the free communication between parents and children on terrorism is compelling. This fascinating guide amounts to a riveting lesson of clarity and to a masterpiece in bridging the unbridgeable." 

--Hon. Yehuda Lancry, Former Ambassador of Israel to the U.N.

"Please Explain 'Terrorism' to Me is a straightforward and down-to-earth treatment of a difficult subject. Dr. Zelinger uses common sense, a simple clarification of the basic issues, and reassurance to provide a deeper understanding of terrorism for kids--without a corresponding rise in anxiety." 

--Thomas W. Phelan, Ph.D., Psychologist/Author,

I rated this book 5 *****;s

This book is a wide opening for kids and parents about terrorism. The illustrations are so beautiful which kids will love to learn more about this delicate topic. My son who is 14 years old is  afraid to fly because he is terrified that the plane will crash. The last time he flew was when he was two years old. 
 
The step by step guidelines are very important and will help the kids understand about the terrorism. I know that in schools, both my kids have drills if something will happen and keep them safe. 
 
This book is so educational and fun to read. Every parents should have this book in their bookshelves. I really recommend it.

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From the Growing With Love Series at Loving Healing Press

More books by the author

About the Author

Illustrator, Ann Israeli, and author, Laurie Zelinger

Dr. Laurie Zelinger, Diplomate, is a Board Certified Psychologist with a specialty in School Psychology, and a Registered Play Therapist with forty years' experience. She is a licensed New York State psychologist who recently retired from a Long Island public school system and is now devoting her time exclusively to writing, consulting, and her busy private practice. Dr. Laurie's previous books include: "Please Explain Anxiety to Me: Simple Biology and Solutions for Children and Parents," The "O MY" in TonsillectOMY & AdenoidectOMY: How to Prepare Your Child for Surgery (in its second edition), A Smart Girl's Guide to Liking Herself Even on the Bad Days for American Girl, and a chapter on selective mutism in the compendium, School Based Play Therapy (second edition). She is also credited with being a consultant for the Bitty Baby book series by American Girl where she assisted in the development of the "For Parents" sections, as well as editorial development of another American Girl book. Dr. Laurie's interest in writing began in 4th grade, when a play she wrote was performed by students in her public school. Dr. Zelinger is a fellow and elected officer in the nationally based American Academy of School Psychology and spent four years on the Executive Board of the New York Association of Play Therapy. As a media referral specialist for the American Psychological Association, she has contributed to nearly 200 venues regarding child development. Dr. Laurie and her psychologist husband, Dr. Fred, are both certified Red Cross Disaster Mental Health volunteers. They have been happily married for over thirty-five years and have raised four children. You can learn more about Dr. Zelinger and her books at DrZelinger dot com. 

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Ann Israeli graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and began her art career as a textile designer. She worked designing wallpaper and home furnishings before moving on to a career in Women's and Children's knitwear designs, where she won many awards. She began a second career as an art teacher in the Rockville Centre School District on Long Island, New York and earned her Masters of Art degree from Adelphi University (New York). Currently, Ann enjoys visiting her newest grandson in California and spending time with her husband, children, family, and friends. She also relishes her time working on oil painting and hopes to continue on her new path as an illustrator.

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How to Turn Your Mom Into a Monster Book By Aurora Whittet

Book Details:

Book Title: How to Turn Your Mom into a Monster by Aurora Whittet
Category: Children's Fiction, 40 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Wise Ink Publishing
Release date: Oct 2, 2017
Tour dates: Oct 16 to 27, 2017
Content Rating: G

Book Description:

Do you like smearing your lunch all over yourself? Do you fight with your sister just because she's there? Do you find yourself unable to go to bed because mysterious ninjas keep stealing your pajamas? Then you're a little monster! Guess what: Mom can be a monster too! It's up to you to make your mom's monster come out to play . . .

​To read more reviews, please visit Aurora Whittet's page on iRead Book Tours.

I rated this book 5 *****'s 
 This is such a beautiful and fun book to read for your kids I asked my daughter to read this book and she said she is too big for this book to read. She said this book is for little kids. I read it by myself.


Though my babies are now 14 and 11, luckily they were not monsters when they were little. This book is so beautiful and fun to read. I loved the illustrations. Little kids will enjoy looking at them for sure.



This book brought so much memories while am reading it. Kids grow up too fast and that we must treasure every precious moments with them.  It brought smile to my face and so much loved especially the last page. I am sure that some of the routines mention in the book, some parents can relate. Fortunately, my kids were behaving when they were little. Now that they are bigger, putting them to bed is a pain compared when they were little. Little monsters or angels, we were the one who created them. We love those buggers anyway and we will not trade them anything for the world.

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Meet the Author:

Aurora Whittet started out as a wild red-haired girl in Minnesota dreaming up stories for her friends to read. Today, she has completed Bloodmark, Bloodrealms, and Bloodmoon of the Bloodmark Saga trilogy, Mama's Knight: A Cancer Story of Love, and How to Turn Your Mom into a Monster. She's a national award-winning graphic designer in her day job. Aurora lives with her family in Minnesota.

What made you write a book about monsters?

I wrote a How to Turn Your Mom into a Monster after surviving the many antics of my own son. He’s now five and the king of shenanigans, and sometimes those moments he acts up nearly break you as a mom. I think that mom’s need a laugh at the end of the night and a light at the end of the tunnel to know they are doing a darn good job, and they aren’t alone.

Do you have another profession besides writing?

I write children’s picture books, young adult novels and I am a designer and illustrator. Basically as my father would say, I’m rather artsy-fartsy.

In today’s tech savvy world, most writers use a computer or laptop. Have you ever written parts of your book on paper?

My children’s books are fully written on paper and sketched out first, before I ever start truly drawing the pictures or opening my computer. I think more clearly on paper. My young adult novels are probably about forty percent on paper, but I do use the computer a lot more for those longer word counts.

How long have you been writing?

I’m pretty sure I wrote my first short story when I was about seven years old. Followed by many more around longer stories starting at age twelve. Naturally they were all terrible, but I loved the thrill of it and have continued to pursue that passion.

What is the most ridiculous thing your son has done?

It actually made it into the book, he truly toot-blamed me at the pharmacy once. I was mortified. He even had details like what aisle I did it in, one we’d never even been in. Can’t really get out of that when he has so many made-up details! Just smile on mamas, and laugh with them, because life is always easier when you’re laughing.

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Alycat And The Monday Blues Book by Alysson Foti Bourque

Book Details:

Book Title: Alycat and the Monday Blues by Alysson Foti Bourque
Illustrations by: Chiara Civati
Category: Children's Fiction, 32 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Mascot Books
Release date: Sept 12, 2017
Tour dates: Sept 18 to Oct 6, 2017
Content Rating: G (appropriate for all audiences)

Book Description:

Alycat wakes up with the dreaded Monday Blues and is certain that nothing will go right. But when a mishap sends her astray, she discovers that helping a friend will help her discover her own hidden talent—curing her Monday Blues.

To read reviews, please visit Alysson Foti Bourque's page on iRead Book Tours.

My mom and I both rated this book 5 *****'s 

Alycat is such an inspiration My mom let me read the book first to see what I think of the book. She read the book after me. We both enjoyed reading this book. Alycat is my favorite character. My mom says it reminded her of my big brother the most who always has the Monday Blues. He still goes to school though. The setting is perfect from home to school. The plot is very easy to  follow and understand. I loved how vibrant and beautiful the illustrations of the book. It shows details. The kids like me definitely will enjoy reading this book and Alycat will give them inspiration.

My mom said that Alycat exactly like my big brother. Sometimes he is discouraged to go to school. Recently, he enjoyed going to school especially when he plays golf after school. My Dad never gives up on him as he enjoyed playing the golf. My Dad took him to golf course for practices. Alycat and my big brother is the same as they never stop to find ways to enjoy the day. My big brother is part of the high schools golf team now because just like Alycat he find ways that he enjoys.

Alycat has a kind of heart just like my big brother who never doubt to help a stranger in need. Alycat will make you smile and teaches you to enjoy life.    

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Meet the Author:

Alysson Foti Bourque is the author of the Rhyme or ReasonTravel series, and the multi-award winning Alycat series. Alysson received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and a law degree from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge. She believes that there is an Alycat in all of us, encouraging our imaginations to guide us through new opportunities and adventures. ​

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Do you ever get writer’s block? What helps you overcome it? 

I don’t really get writer’s block— but I do get distracted. I have a habit of opening the window in my office and watching the birds fly and trees sway. Then the cat comes in the room and I might as well call it a day!

How did you do research for your book? 

I looked at all of my all-time favorites from my home bookshelf and reread the books that appealed most to my children and what did not. Since I write for children, I make an effort to listen to how children around me speak and interact. When writing for children, you have to think like a kid. That is easy for me to do. I never take myself too seriously.

What is your next project? 

I am finalizing the third book of the Alycat series, Alycat and the Friendship Friday. This book deals with inclusiveness, diversity, and friendship—of course!

What genre do you write and why? 

I write children’s books. Being a mom of two young children, I feel that it is important to use books as a teaching tool­– so I write for them. They can relate to the issues developed in the story and learn how to solve those problems with skills found in the book. I would love to write chapter books in the near future. Maybe when my children are a little older.

What is the last great book you’ve read? 

The last great book that I have read is The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. This timely book is riveting, honest, and extraordinary. And, I got to meet Angie in person the week after her book first hit #1 on the New York Times Bestsellers list! When I am having a difficult day, I remember the words that she wrote in my copy of her book— Be light in the darkness!

Do you snack while writing? Favorite snack? Where do you write? 

Yes! I write in my office— always with a snack and coffee. Favorite snack is Sour Patch Kids or cereal. I know— I’m a big kid.

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My Brother Is Special: A Cerebral Palsy Story Book by Murray Stenton

My Brother Is Special: A Cerebral Palsy Story by Murray Stenton

Ethan is a big brother like no other!

Life with a special need child has its fair share of challenges. These challenges are not only for the parents, but extend to those other wonderful little children, the siblings. This book helps shine some light on the difficulties and the job siblings special needs children experience every day. It is a light-hearted take of one little boy's thoughts of his big brother Ethan, who was born with Cerebral Palsy.


I rated this book 5 *****'s 

This book is such a special read 
 
I loved reading this book. I read it with my Mom when we went camping last month. It is a short book but very special to read. I liked the illustration as well. I wish I can draw like that.  
 
I can relate to this book when my big brother a little bit. They have different situations but help to understand them are the same. Dealing with my big brother sometimes is difficult, my Mom always remind me that he is different in a very special way. You just have to be there for him. I still love my big brother despite being different.  
 
It does not matter to me if some kids are different just like my big brother. They still have the heart and needs compassion, understanding and above all unconditional love. We have no right to judge them because they are different. Life is full of mystery and we need to respect other people.

Available to buy from....

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From Loving Healing Press http://www.lhpress.com/

"As a mother, and advocate for, special needs children, I highly recommend this book as a learning tool for others. I gave my child a voice, as this author is doing for his, and I applaud him for it." -- Chynna Laird, author of I'm Not Weird, I Have Sensory Processing Disorder and Not Just Spirited

"Engaging and lighthearted, My Brother is Special captures what children with cerebral palsy and their families may experience. The characters are loveable and entertaining. Chidren will enjoy this book and relate to their experiences" -- Jill Osborne, EDS, LPC, CPC, RPTS, author of Sam Feels Better Now

About the author
From an early age, Murray was artistic. His favorite pastime was and still is doodling cute and fun little characters. As Murray entered the working world he utilized his natural creative talent in his graphic design profession. Illustrating being his true love, Murray started looking for freelance illustration work. Murray had no idea that answering a Kijiji ad would help his long time ambitions come to life. A well-known children’s book author and disability advocate, Jewel Kats gave him a shot at illustrating one of her children’s books. That experience gave Murray the courage to pursue other illustration contracts. Murray had an instant connection to Jewel, through the world of physical disability. Murray’s oldest son Ethan had a stroke at birth causing CP and other life altering conditions. With his new found courage and through the help of Victor R. Volkman and Loving Healing Press Murray brings this wonderful story to children everywhere. Murray’s hope is those siblings of children with disabilities will know they too are not alone.

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Prince Preemie: A Tale of a Tiny Puppy Who Arrives Early Book by Jewel Kats

Prince Preemie: A Tale of a Tiny Puppy Who Arrives Early by Jewel Kats (Author), Claudia Marie Lenart (Illustrator)

The King and Queen of Puppy Kingdom are joyfully awaiting the arrival of their Prince. But the couple and their kingdom are thrown into upheaval when it is learned that Prince Puppy will arrive early, before his important crown is completed. How can they call him Prince without a crown? Discover how the King solves this problem in Prince Preemie: A Tale of a Tiny Puppy Who Arrives Early. Children will be swept away into this dreamy, fairy tale land of adorable dogs created from wool.

I rated this book 5 paws

What a fun book to read 
 
I read this book when my family went out camping. It is a very short book but fun to read. We have the two dogs, one is big and one is little. There sizes were so different from each other. Maggie, our American Staffordshire terrier dog sometimes hurt Molly, our Rat Terrier by accident. Molly is so tiny that sometimes Maggie plays hard with her. I am more protective of Molly and remind to play nice and not so rough with her tiny sister. 
 
This book reminds me of my big brother. My mom showed me his baby photos. He was so tiny and so fragile. My Mom told me that taking care of my big brother is a little scary compared when I was born. I understand more when I read this beautiful book. We need to be patience and kind when babies or puppies were little. They will catch up and everything would be normal. Unfortunately for our dog Molly, she will be tiny for the rest of her life. Maggie still loves her and protects her with other dogs.

Available to buy from....

Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk    Barnes and Noble   Paperback

From Loving Healing Press http://www.lhpress.com/

"As the mother of two children born preterm, I can relate to the sorrow and joy that Prince Preemie's parents faced at his early arrival. Through magical writing and illustrations Jewel Kats and Claudia Marie Lenart once again help children of all abilities and their families understand the special gifts that are inside each one of us." --Kelli Kelley, Founder and Exec. Director, HandtoHold.org -- Fragile Babies, Strong Support

"Prince Preemie is a sweet book that offers a good way to start conversations with a preemie child about their early birth. The story hints at the stress and fear that comes with having a child prematurely, but leaves the reader feeling hopeful." --Andrea Mullenmeister, writer at AnEarlyStartBlog.com

"The arrival of a premature baby can be confusing for a young child. In this delightful dog kingdom, Jewel Kats has created a teaching tool that normalizes the situation. Claudia Marie Lenart’s illustrations look cuddly, every child will love them and be drawn into the story of Prince Preemie even without the words." --Bob Rich, PhD, psychologist, author of Anger and Anxiety: Be In Charge of Your Emotions and Control Phobias

"Prince Preemie is a feel good book -- the story is one of inspiration, determination and acceptance. It reminds us that there is always hope and that with optimism, dedication and love you can create the good and happiness into every situation you face." --Robin Marvel, author of Framing a Family: Building a Foundation to Raise Confident Children

About the author

Once a teen runaway, Jewel Kats is now a two-time Mom's Choice Award winner. For six years, Jewel penned a syndicated teen advice column for Scripps Howard News Service (USA) and The Halifax Chronicle Herald. She gained this position through The Young People's Press. She's won $20,000 in scholarships from Global Television Network, and women's book publisher: Harlequin Enterprises. Jewel also interned in the TV studio of Entertainment Tonight Canada. Her books have been featured in Ability Magazine (USA) twice. She's authored eight books-five are about disabilities. The Museum of disABILITY History celebrated her work with a two-day event. Jewel has appeared as an international magazine cover story four times! Recently, her work was featured in an in-depth article published in "The Toronto Star". Jewel's work has also appeared as an evening news segment on WKBW-TV and on the pages of "The Buffalo News".

Find the author on the following sites...

Website   Facebook   Twitter   Goodreads   Amazon author page

About the illustrator
Claudia Marie Lenart is a fiber artist from northern Illinois. She experimented in the arts and handwork since childhood and while pursuing a career as a journalist. She finally found her true muse when she discovered needle felting. Her soft sculpture characters are created by repeatedly poking wool and other natural fibers, like alpaca, with a barbed needle. Claudia pioneered a distinct style of illustrating books using needle felted wool to create illustrations as well as a variety of other techniques including wet felting and pressed wool painting.  Connect on Twitter

The big brown bear from Toys R Us

I saw this photo on my Facebook's memory five years ago. My Summer Babe is still tiny her. She stills has this big brown bear in her room. We bought it at Toys R Us.  Aside from this big brown bear, she also has other bears that we gave her and beanie boos in her shelves in her room. 


She grows up so fast. She stills loves stuff toys especially the big ones. She said she wants t give all her beanie boos from her cousins in the Philippines when I come visit them soon.  

How about you? Does your kid has stuff toys that they own since they were babies?

Wise The Owl My #28th Beanie Boos Collection

I want you to meet Wise The Owl. Wise my #28 beanie boos in my collection. My Mom and I bought Wise in Rite Pharmacy. It is because the pharmacy is closed to where we live. Their beanie boos are cheaper too.
Wise the owl was born on the 20th of September. Wise the owl wears the scarf. Wise is part of the winter theme. Wise keep his neck warms with his scarf on so tight. It will not even come off when he flies through the night. My Dad caught an owl on his trap before. I hope it was not Wise. My Dad let him go. That was not wise of Wise to being trapped.

StoreNVY is your best choice to shop for kids clothing

My Mom promised me that when I do great with my grades in school, she can reward me with something. My grades were high because I worked hard for it. She is so proud of me. I can get the stuff that I wanted. I also know that my Mom does not make more money compared to my Dad.
Though I wanted the expensive clothing but am so happy that I found this store Custom Storefront online. They sell the shirts like the Ivory Ella that I wanted for affordable prices. This is my second transaction from them. My Mom and I were both pleased and that we ordered shirts from them again.
  The online store comes from China. Do not get me wrong, they shipped fast too. Our first order came a week after my Mom paid it. The shipping also is free which is amazing. Their customer service is fast. You can inquire and you will get a response quickly. They sent you a tracking number to let you that your stuff is in the way. They also wrapped yours items carefully. My Mom and I both loved shopping this store. We both recommended it for anybody. Aside from the shirts that they are selling online, they also have stuff like for home. You can check it out here Marketplace Store. Anything you wanted to make your home beautiful, you can search it here.

Freeze The Penguin my #27th Beanie Boos

My Mommy and I bought Freeze the Penguin at Rite Aid pharmacy. Freeze is my #27th beanie boo is my collection.
Freeze birthday is on the 17th of November 2015. Freeze's little red hat keeps her snuggly and warm during the cold season. She can play all days long in a really bad storm. Freeze and I will get along as I loved to stay outside and play in the snows while I am bundled-up to keep me from not being sick.

How to Find Your Dream Dog Book By Dixie Tenny

Book Description:

Bringing a new dog into the household should be one of life’s happiest events. The process always starts with excitement and high expectations. Too often, though, it ends in disappointment. The new puppy wakes everyone three times a night, gnaws on furniture, piddles everywhere, knocks the children down. The new adolescent dog is too wild. The new adult dog growls at your neighbors. And where did all this dog hair come from?
  Most people spend hours researching a new mattress, days researching a new car, and weeks researching a new home or job. Yet for a new dog, a companion for the next 10-15 years, the most they do is visit the nearest shelter or pet shop and buy whatever looks cute and appealing. It’s no wonder they end up disappointed. Whether you are looking for a purebred puppy or a charming mixed-breed, the type of dog you bring into your home matters. A quiet owner will struggle to keep up with a high-energy labrador mix, for instance, while an active outdoor family will be impatient with a snoozy bulldog. And finding the right kind of dog means becoming the right kind of owner—a task that takes some forethought and planning.

How To Find Your Dream Dog is here to fix the disconnect of dog ownership. It walks you step-by-step through the process of choosing the right type of dog for you—not only exploring the canine qualities that can determine your perfect puppy, adolescent, or adult dog, but also assessing your lifestyle to make sure you’re a good match for the dog, too. The book also looks at good (and bad) sources for finding healthy and sound pet dogs, gives guidelines for evaluating individual puppies, and warns of some red flags to watch out for during your dog search. With this guidebook in hand, you can be confident that the next puppy or dog you bring home will be the right companion and friend for you for the rest of its days.

Our furry girls Maggie and Molly rated this book 5 paw prints Both my Mom and I loved reading this book.  My mom finished the book first. She then asked me to read it to see what is my thoughts about this book How To Find Your Dream Dog.
We found already our dreams dogs the American Staffordshireterrier dog named Maggie and Rat Terrier named Molly. They both are girls. Maggie is four and Molly just turned two years old yesterday.
Reading this book is so amazing. You will learned a lot. Owning a dog takes many responsibilities. I know that my Mom sometimes gets mad at me if my big brother and I won't take them out to do their thing. You will also gives them exercise. Our dogs loves to go outside for a walk and run. Maggie loves to run and chases Molly. While Molly loves to hunt and being chased with Maggie.
Though Maggie came to us miraculously. I was at that time has severe dog allergy. She helps me a lot coping with my dog allergy. Sometimes I get hives when she gives me sloppy kisses. We will trade anything for the world with our dogs. We both loved them to pieces. They are both amazing house and guard dogs. They have both different personalities. Maggie is so giving while Molly is being bossy. If you are looking for your dream dog, this book is your best guide. My mom and I both highly recommend this book. I wish you all the luck.  

Buy the Book:  Amazon  ~  Add on Goodreads

Author's Bio:

​Dixie Tenny is a Certified Training Partner with the Karen Pryor Academy of Animal Training and Behavior. During her 30+ years spent working with people and their pets, she has seen again and again how mismatches between dog and owner can create “behavior problems” that never would have happened if the right dog had been matched to the right owner in the first place. She wrote this book to help puppy buyers and dog adopters start out on the best possible foot with their new pet dogs, and stay on that path for years to come.

Dixie Tenny has been helping people and their dogs find each other and form successful partnerships since the early 1980s. She founded two rescue organizations: Purebred Dog Rescue of Saint Louis in 1984, and Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue, Inc. in 1987. Dixie was the Director of Training for the Greater St. Louis Training Club, Inc., for five years, creating classes and overseeing the work of 40 head and assistant trainers. In 2003 she and another experienced trainer created Dogs Unleashed, LLC. They traveled to clients’ homes and worked with behavior and training issues.

Dixie’s professional credentials include trainer certifications from the prestigious Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training and Behavior, and the Association for Pet Dog Trainers. Dixie formed her own business, Human-Animal Learning Opportunities, LLC (HALO) in 2013. HALO hosts continuing education seminars for dog trainers.

Dixie has lived with a wide range of dogs over the years including mixed breeds, Australian Shepherds, Welsh and Cairn terriers, and more. While in Seattle, Dixie raised a labrador puppy for Canine Companions for Independence, Inc. (CCI). Currently Dixie lives with a Beauceron and an elderly Papillon, as well as four cats. When not doing things related to animals, she reads widely, enjoys the company of her three grown children, follows baseball and English Premier League football, and travels the world.

​Interview with ​Dixie Tenny, author of How to Find Your Dream Dog

Q: Why did you write a book about choosing a dog?

A: I began helping people with their pet dogs’ training and behavior over 30 years ago. Through all those years, I saw so many mismatched “couples” — people who had chosen a wonderful dog, but also a type of dog that just didn’t fit into their lifestyle. Those were my hardest cases, because so much of what the owners thought of as “behavior problems” was really just normal behavior for that type of dog. I wrote this book to try to help people find the right dog in the first place, so those mismatches don’t happen.

Q: Are dogs your favorite animal?

A: I can’t imagine my life without dogs. I love cats, too: I have four of them! And I have a soft spot in my heart for a funny little animal called a pangolin, which, sadly, is the most illegally trafficked animal in the world.

Q: Have you written any other books?

A: Yes. I wrote a young adult suspense novel when I was a young adult myself! It’s title is “Call the Darkness Down,” and it tells the story of an American college student who goes abroad for a term in the country of Wales, where her mother came from, and becomes involved in a dark family mystery.

Q: What is your next writing project?

A: I hope to write at least two more books that follow on “How to Find Your Dream Dog”: one about preparing yourself and your household to bring a dog home, and one about setting a great foundation during the first week at home with a puppy. I also dream of creating an online puppy course for pet owners.

Q: Have you done any other interesting work?

A: I really enjoyed working as a volunteer tour guide - a docent - at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle for several years. Learning all about the animals and then sharing that with the zoo visitors was very rewarding. As well as animal facts, I loved telling visitors about the fun behind-the-scenes stories, like the time a zookeeper dropped his radio in the orangutan exhibit…the big male orangutan took the radio completely apart, put it back together, and when he handed it back through the bars to the zookeeper, it worked!

Spotlight For The Book Let’s Hug and The Unusualasaurases by Efrat Shoham

Book Description for Let’s Hug: 15 Hugs for Beginners:

There must be over a millions ways to say "I love you" or "I care about you", but with a single hug, even without words, you can simply feel it. This book is for toddlers, and encourages children and adults alike to try out all possible types of hugs. It's everyone's gain.
It took seconds for the sweet testers who accompanied the writing of this book to adopt these 15 ways of showing love, to give and receive it. And our testers are not alone. Recent studies reveal that Oxitocin, the most fun hormone available, also known as the Love Hormone, is released into our bodies when we hug. Hugs are proven to have a generally positive healing and relaxing effect, since they increase calm and happiness, reinforce our self esteem, and support our sense of connection to those who are close to us. If you'd like to validate these studies, go ahead and hug. This book was beautifully illustrated by Yuval Israeli, and it's the second creative collaboration between Yuval Israeli and Efrat Shoham. Buy the Book: Amazon

Book Description for The Unusualasaurases:

Ages and ages ago, many different kinds of dinosaurs roamed our planet. Some were as large as whales, while others were the size of small dogs. Some were plant-eaters, while some ate other animals. Some had very long necks and tails, while others were tiny. Some had horns. Some had wings and could fly.

Despite all of these many variations, they were all part of the dinosaur family. And, as is often the case with family, they shared many common features.

No one has ever never whatsoever seen a live dinosaur or spoken to one of them. So, what if dinosaurs could really talk, or smile, cry, dream, dance, play and joke?

To answer all of these questions, all you have to do is become an Imaginesaurus, and meet the Unusualasauruses.

This book is aimed at children aged 4 to 120. It introduces the readers to different types of personalities, characters, and skills and thus helps us to spot them at a glance.

This book was beautifully illustrated by Lilach Ramati.

Buy the Book:  Amazon

About the Author:

Efrat Shoham is an Israeli writer and independent publisher (The Pink Camel).

Shoham grew up in a small agricultural village in Israel. Her father was a farmer and her mother – a teacher and librarian. She lives with her family in Tel Aviv, on a small street lined with eucalyptus, mulberry and loquat trees, where 3 rabbits from the nearby kindergarten run wild.

She thinks and believes that curiosity, imagination, humor, green fields, fresh mango or avocado and pink camels are some of the keys to a good and happy life.

Connect with the author:  Website  ~ Facebook

About the Illustrator of Let's Hug Yuval Israeli 

"I grew up in a kibbutz in the north of Israel and for years I live in Tel Aviv with Roy and our cat "tsimuki". I studied design and illustration at "Vital" the school of visual arts, which reunited later with "Shenkar".

I also learned classical painting in the "station studio".
I always paint pop icons and characters which affected me, and I also always paint portraits of friends. Besides, I always enjoyed painting all kinds of creatures from my imagination".

 About the Illustrator of The Unusualasauruses

Lilach Ramati
"I majored in visual communication in Holon Institute of Technology. I studied Interactive, but eventually my final project was an illustrated book. Today I work as a designer in games company".