THE CASTOFF CANINE
Winner of the 2026 IndieReader Discovery Awards in Kids, Nonfiction
What’s the book’s first line?
“Rocky was a dog living a lonely life outside.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
The Castoff Canine is a heartwarming children’s book inspired by the true story of Rocky (my dog), a rescue dog who went from forgotten and unwanted to deeply loved. Through Rocky’s journey, the book teaches compassion, kindness, and the life-changing impact of rescue while helping support animal causes-100% of my net proceeds are donated to help animals in need.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
My dog Rocky and I wanted to help others like him.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
The Castoff Canine is a touching true story that shows how one rescue dog’s life (my dog Rocky) was transformed by love, kindness, and a second chance. Readers of all ages will be inspired by Rocky’s journey while supporting animal causes, as 100% of my net proceeds are donated to help animals in need.
When did you first decide to become an author?
I actually wrote it on my bucket list when I was very young but a few years ago, I was trying to find an outlet outside of work and I was sitting on the couch one night with my dog, Rocky and came up with the idea to write a book about his life and donate all of my proceeds to help others.
Is this the first book that you’ve written?
Yes
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I work in administration at a hospital.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
I have one very special book coming next! Writing is a great source of joy for me.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
Getting the word out there. I know this book could help so many but it has been hard to market.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
If you have an idea, the sky is the limit, keep going!
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
Helping others. In this case helping animals like Rocky has been so rewarding.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
Samantha Childs. She wrote Henri and the Magnificent Snort.