Recently Published Children's Book, Faith, the Ugly Dog (The Adventures of Buzzardillopossum)

Kent, WA, January 9, 2015 (Newswire.com) - The beautifully illustrated book is the first children’s book in a planned series written by Kelly that showcases Faith, a Jack Russell Terrier with a skin disease that has left her with no hair on her head, her tail or her ankles. Some have said that Faith is an ugly dog, but Kelly and Faith refuse to believe them.

Inspired by her rescue dog Faith, that she adopted seven years ago, the book tells the story of a little dog that has been told, and is convinced, that her ugliness on the outside means more than the kindness, sweetness and bravery that she has on the inside. After encountering a mean dog that bullies her and makes fun of her, and her transformation into the superhero “Buzzardillopossum”, Faith realizes her true inner worth and value. However, did Faith dream this, or did it actually happen? Does it really even matter? Faith, the Ugly Dog is a heartfelt and inspiring tale of the imagination that will teach children, and remind adults, that what an individual looks like on the outside is not as important as the goodness an individual has on the inside.

"This book is a heartwarming story of a sweet, and yes ugly, little dog as she overcomes the hurtful actions of others to realize her true beauty and strength in life. This wonderful little book conveys the true essence of humanity by teaching us to look beyond the normal stereotypes in life so that we may seek and appreciate the inner values of those around us. Sharing this sentiment with your loved ones will surely make the world a more beautiful place."

Cindi Varela

“My goal is for the reader to forge a common bond with Faith who will inspire them to feel better and be more confident about who they are on the inside”, says Kelly. “My main goals for the book are to empower children to love, respect and believe in themselves in order to make the world a better place, provide an opportunity for adults to share an open dialogue with children about Faith’s message that it’s okay that people look different on the outside, and to inspire readers to see the world from Faith’s unique perspective.”

Kelly’s plans to share her book with children with cancer, children with a physical deformity or even children who are subject to bullying, so that they might benefit from the fundamental message of the story and help them through any difficult life journey. Kelly also plans to distribute the book to the many rescue shelters that work hard to save the lives of precious animals. A percentage of book sales will go directly to Seattle Children’s Hospital as well as to The Humane Society of the United States.

The book’s illustrator, Anthony M. Grimaldi, pursues children's book illustration as a primary focus of freelancing because, according to Anthony, “It is so diverse, creative, abstract, inventive and fun, allowing a wide range of styles, techniques, colors, layout and expression." He is the illustrator of another children’s book, “Red Riding Hood and the Wolf” by Amelia Picklewiggle.