Children's book written, illustrated by locals

Kathy Taylor, an employee of Schmidt Insurance in Odessa, has written a children’s book. With much input by other Odessa people, the book, in the works for about the last nine months, has gone to print and will be available for Christmas delivery. Lexi Watkins, recent Odessa High graduate did the illustrations for it, and the graphic design was provided by Briana Whitcher (also of Odessa). Final proof reading was performed by Odessa High English teacher Dr. Duane Pitts, and the book was then audience-tested by school librarian Apryl Wraspir who recommended that the first- through third-grade children read the book. Both provided valuable input and suggestions, Taylor said. It has been an all-Odessa effort almost from start to finish.

The book is a true story of Taylor’s dog Rocky and his adoption from a shelter. Her boyfriend Jason had a Schipperke mix and Taylor fell in love with her. She and Jason found a male Schipperke on petfinder.com in November of 2009. He was in a shelter in Trinidad, Colo. Taylor said she just knew that he would be a perfect fit for her home, adding that the words "calm and mellow" in his profile might have attracted her somewhat, too.

She made up her mind that she wanted this dog and decided to do whatever she could to get him home to Washington state, even though it was the middle of winter. She put out a call on the Internet, and things took off from there. Rocky was transported to Odessa for no charge in January 2010 by a husband and wife trucker team. Taylor said, “It was so inspiring to meet all of the people who stepped up to help make sure one little dog reached his forever home. I decided it was a story I needed to share.”

The story is a heartwarming account of Rocky’s journey, as well as a humorous look at everyday life from his perspective. The book is geared toward 5-to-8-year olds. In the back of the book is a recipe for Rocky's favorite puppy treats, as well as suggestions for ways everyone can help animal shelters.

Taylor says she will be taking orders for pre-sales of her book at the Tree of Sharing table during Christmas Fest. Stop by and see a draft copy and pick a complimentary bookmark. Those who pay and pre-order by no later than Monday, December 12, will not be charged tax and shipping. The books should arrive prior to Christmas. The book will also be available for sale at Taylor’s own web store http://www.createspace.com/3598282 and amazon.com sometime between mid- to late December. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to local animal rescue and welfare organizations.

“My purpose in publishing this book is to raise awareness regarding shelter adoptions,” Taylor says. “There are thousands of dogs available, all types of breeds (including purebreds), and they are listed online with detailed profiles regarding their dispositions and personalities. My life has been forever changed after adopting Rocky. You cannot put a price on the companionship and unconditional love these animals provide, and I hope others will consider opening their home and their heart to an animal in need.”