Puppy Spell

About the Book

What will it be like to have a new puppy? This child’s anticipation of bringing home a puppy is shaped by the memories and experiences of mom, dad, Pap-Pap, and Aunt. Through a child’s eyes, we learn that the process of adding another pet involves responsibility, expense, friendship, and much more. In fact, there is a myth that puppies and their owners form a powerful magical bond. “Be careful of the puppy spell,” the wise Aunt warns. With this advice, she sparks grand dreams, hopes, and fears about the power of puppies.

Puppies lick and play and chew
I hear there’s more to tell; it’s true
Behind the cute ears and wet nose
My puppy’s magic power grows

When she arrives, I am afraid
To not forget, I’ll need some aid
I hope and wonder with alarm
That I can resist her magic charm

New puppies come with their own special magical abilities to make kids forget things. Or so an Aunt says. Maybe their magic is more about turning a house upside-down with love and friendship! Read about how the puppy Tessa changes her new home.

About the Author

Author bio Tabitha McCormick lives in Millville, PA with her husband Jerrold, son Goody, and daughter Marta. A CPA by day, she returns home each evening to the dogs (Tessa and Tucker) and cats (Spike and Jane) who have graciously agreed to share their house. Each day is a story with this crew, so Tabitha finally took her mom’s advice and wrote one down. Illustrator bio Jennifer Jenkins is an information technology professional based in New York City. She has no pets, but enjoys watching the daily parade of dogs heading toward the park. The inspiration for the cat pictures is Scrappy, the toughest cat in the neighborhood. He has been spied lounging in her flower garden in between territory patrols. This is Jennifer’s first book of illustrations.