DOGGY TALE FOR TYKES
Spa City pooch the star of new children’s book
SARATOGA SPRINGS >> One local dog is making her big debut in a brand new children’s book, “Cali Needs Her Rest.”
Cali, a 6-year-old Yorkipoo, lives in Saratoga Springs with her owner Kenny Goodwin Jr., the book’s author.
“I have a lot of younger people in my family and I’ve always wanted to write a kids’ book,” said Goodwin.
When Goodwin saw how much his young relatives love Cali, he decided to make her the star.
“Cali Needs Her Rest,” Goodwin’s first book, is a 28page hardcover picture book that tells the story of Cali, and all the things she loves to do. But in order to do them, Cali knows that she first needs her rest.
In addition to the story, illustrated by an artist from Europe, the book also includes a “Dream Diary” where kids can record their dreams.
“It’s kind of a way for it to be interactive,” Goodwin said.
A bedtime story, “Cali Needs Her Rest” is meant to help children learn the importance of getting sleep, as well as dreaming big.
“Cali has a whole bunch of dreams in this book, and we we’re hoping that we just get kids thinking about ultimately what they want to do,” Goodwin said.
Furthermore, “I’m excited to bring Cali to life for other people,” the author said.
In testing the book out, Goodwin received great feedback from both kids and parents.
“Cali Needs Her Rest” is intended for kids ages 8 and younger.
Printed by ShiresPress in Vermont, “Cali Needs Her Rest” will soon be available at Northshire Bookstores in Saratoga Springs and Manchester Center, Vt.
The book costs about $14. “Cali Needs Her Rest” blankets and pillows are also being produced.
Goodwin hopes to soon have a book-signing event at Northshire Bookstore on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, during which Cali will stamp her pawprint in each copy sold.
In addition to teaching children, writing Cali Needs Her Rest was a way for Goodwin to honor and share his love for his dog, who he considers his best friend.
“Obviously dogs don’t last forever. So I figured this would kind of be a cool way to make her last forever,” Goodwin said.
“Cali has brought so much joy to my life. She’s literally my best friend. So I’m so happy to share her with other people,” he continued.
Goodwin, who also owns and operates local advertising business Spin My Ad, plans to donate classes to local elementary schools as well as area children’s hospitals through an upcoming fundraising initiative.
Looking ahead, Goodwin has already brainstormed future stories starring Cali, one in which she will visit the zoo and learn about diversity.
For more information on “Cali Needs Her Rest,” visit www.calineedsherrest.com or Instagram page @calineedsherrest.
To order a copy of the book, visit www.northshire.com/calineedsherrest.