When Emmy Award-winning journalist John Gray experienced the unexpected death of his six-month-old puppy, Samuel, he wanted to turn his pain into something positive. Together, John Gray and illustrator Shanna Brickell created God Needed a Puppy (Paraclete Press) – a story to help every child (and grownup) who has lost a pet. In the story, Edgar the Owl and Freddy the Fox show readers of all ages how saying goodbye to a beloved animal does not mean saying goodbye forever.
To make a great story even better, proceeds from the sales of the book are donated to animal shelters all over the country. John Gray sold 14,500 of the original self-published version of the book; the hardcover edition will keep the steady stream of donations coming to help animals everywhere.
John Gray and Shanna Brickell will launch the book with a signing at Barnes & Noble in Albany on Saturday, August 18. Gracing the event will be John’s very special rescue dog, Keller – a local celebrity in his own right. For information call (518) 438-1728.
“We all need a little comfort sometimes. ‘God Needed a Puppy’ will satisfy some certain reader in your circle; maybe it’s yourself.” —Gregory Maguire, author of Wicked
“This is what to read when there is nothing you can say.” —Steve Hartman, CBS News
John Gray is a native of Troy, New York. He is currently a journalist at Fox 23 and writes for several publications. John won an Emmy Award in 2014 in the Historical/Cultural News Category for his production Gunny: I Have a Dream August 28, 2013. (WXXA-TV). John is a loving husband and father, and an avid dog-lover.
Shanna Brickell remembers as a child being in awe of what could be crated with a box of crayons and a few sheets of paper. The mystery and magic of creativity still inspires her today. She infuses her artwork with light and energy to connect with the hearts and minds of those who view it.
To request a review copy or an interview, contact:
Laura McKendree lauram@paracletepress.com or 800-451-5006 ext 316
