Growing up with a pet is one of the great joys of a young life.
The playing, the bonding, often the forming of the first real friendship provides a lifetime of memories.
The loss of a pet is usually a child’s first experience with death and it can be traumatic.
Author Penelope Lagos of Chatham, New Jersey has written a book designed to ease the grieving process by offering a helpful resource for both parents and children.
Her recently published book, “I Miss My Best Friend” (GreenTree Publishers, 2017), is geared for children ages 6 to 9 but can be read by all ages. It comes from a very personal place in Lagos’ heart: sadness over the recent passing of her own best friend, her dog Cassius.
With beautiful illustrations by Sophie Moracchinni, “I Miss My Best Friend” tells the story of the day Cassius came into the lives of Louie and Penny and spends his time with them in mischief and merrymaking.
“I Miss My Best Friend” can be enjoyable simply as a children’s book, or it can offer help during a time of loss. The book explores grieving in a way young people can understand and relate to. It even offers parents a list of tips at the end to help them make the grieving process a little easier.
The book received a 5-star rating from Reader’s Favorite (https://readersfavorite.com). It is available on Amazon (http://amzn.to/2yQs0wF) and Barnes& Noble online (https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/i-miss-my-best-friend-penelope-lagos/1127168999?ean=9781944483142).
Locally, the book is available at Jabberwocky in Chatham, Sterling Hallmark at the Chatham and Stirling locations and Buddy’s Boutique at St. Hubert’s in Madison. Ten percent of each book purchase goes to support the humane treatment of animals at St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center. This nonprofit organization exists to provide services that support the human–animal bond and seeks to foster an environment in which people respect all living creatures. For more information, visit www.sthuberts.org.
Lagos, a New Jersey native, graduated from Rutgers University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Theatre Arts. She is an animal advocate and strongly believes in being “a voice for the voiceless.” She holds a certification in Canine Fitness and Conditioning as well as Advanced Pet CPR/First Aid. Her love of animals, and loss of her beloved best friend Cassius “The Legend” Lagos, inspired her to write “I Miss My Best Friend” and help others cope with the grief of losing a family pet. When Lagos is not spending time with her own furry friends, she is acting in independent films and commercials as well as volunteering at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). She was the recipient of an achievement award honoring critical funds raised for LLS. Lagos can be reached through her website at www.penelopelagos.com.
(above) Penelope Lagos.
