Mamatoga Interview: Kenny Goodwin Jr. author of "Cali Needs Her Rest"

screenshot-2016-11-16-13-29-51My kids have a favorite new book (which means we read it a TON) and this one gets bonus points for 1) Being about how important rest is (YES) and 2) being written by a local author about a local doggie! "Cali Needs Her Rest" was inspired by author Kenny Goodwin Jr.'s real dog Cali and helps children see the importance of getting their rest. The book is filled with fun illustrations, an absolutely adorable story and a dream diary that kids can record their own dreams in, and will be a perfect "something to read" gift for the holidays. I was thrilled to interview Kenny Goodwin Jr., author of "Cali Needs Her Rest" about what inspired him to create this super cute children's book. Click through to find out more about Cali... image1

Mamatoga: Kenny, my kids absolutely love Cali and your book about her, how did you come up with the idea for Cali Needs Her Rest?

Kenny: Cali has been a total character since the day I rescued her. I always wanted to find a way to share her personality and when my little cousins brought up the idea of making a picture book inspired by Cali, I thought it was a perfect match.

M: Tell us a little about how you and Cali came together.

K: I was living in Manhattan at the time and on a work trip in Atlanta, Georgia when my colleague brought to my attention there was a place where I could find a dog to bring home. I agreed to check it out and upon my arrival it was a giant puppy mill. It was so sad to see such an enormous amount of dogs in crazy conditions so I knew I had to do my part and get one of them out of there. Cali, a Yorkie-Poodle mix, was the only one not barking so I picked her!

M: What is Cali like personality wise?

K: She is absolutely hilarious, super sweet and endlessly curious. She is an avid sleeper (hence the title of the book) and has a passion for squirrel chasing!

image4 M: Is this your first time writing a children’s book? What challenges did you find when writing the book?

K: This is my first book! The challenge of writing this book is that I don't have kids of my own but knew I had to learn how to effectively retain their attention graphically and in writing. I did some research on illustration styles, colors and then shared my rough drafts of the story with every mom that I could track down for a few minutes to see if it would intrigue their toddlers.

M: What is one thing you would love to have children take away after reading this book?

K: Just one thing is so hard! Getting your rest is so important. It's fuel for your body. & if I had to pick a second take away it would be that bedtime isn't a bad thing. It can be the gateway to amazing dreams. And I think we all should dream!

Put this book on your kiddo's must read list, you can find it online here and also locally in the Children's section of Northshire Bookstore on Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Want to meet Cali in the fur? She'll be paw printing her autograph during the Victorian Street Stroll at Northshire Bookstore!

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