There is a wonderful series of books called Planet Of The Dogs, written by Dogster member Robert McCarty. His wife, Stella Mustanoja McCarty, creates the beautiful illustrations.
The books revolve around the dogs who live on a planet on the other side of the sun, who come to earth to teach people about love.
The latest in the series is Snow Valley Heroes: A Christmas Tale. It is the exciting story of the dogs from Planet Of The Dogs who come to earth to help save Christmas.
I had the pleasure of getting to interview Robert and find out more about the series and how it began.
HH: What was your inspiration for this series of books?
RM: The Planet Of The Dogs came from one of those conversations revolving around the notion that the world would be a better place if people were more like dogs, especially, as regards the qualities of unconditional love and loyalty.
HH: How did you come up with the characters in your books?
RM: All the principal dog characters are based on dogs that have been part of our lives or belonged to family members.
HH: What is the age range for your books?
RM:The age range of kids who really like the books has been contrary to establishment parameters. We actually have very enthusiastic comments by kids and or parents from ages 4-12…obviously some kids are more advanced etc…but the unifying element, in my mind, has more to do with the love of dogs and human/canine bond.
Dogster’s group Dog Eared Book Club has chosen Snow Valley Heroes: A Christmas Tale as their November book of the month. Having recently read the book I can understand why it was chosen.
While I’m well out of the 4-12 year old range I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The book brought me back to my youth, a time when it seemed my imagination was endless, something that gets lost in adulthood.
The holidays are right around the corner and Snow Valley Heroes would make a great stocking stuffer. Thanks to Robert McCarty you have a chance to win your very own copy of the book. To enter just share what book about dogs you like, in the comment section, and you will be entered to win. The contest starts today and ends Monday, November 10th when one winner will be chosen at random.
If you would like to ask Robert McCarty a question, stop by his pup Dafi’s homepage or the Dog Eared Book Club.
