My interview with author Myrna Shanker about her new book that tells the story of a most exceptional mutt.

 

I know that your book, “Lazar the Good Deed Dog”, is based on a real life dog who lives at a senior residence in Michigan. How did you first learn about this Lazar? I met Lazar while visiting a senior friend at the Fleischman Residence/Blumberg Plaza in West Bloomfied, MI. At first I thought he was the pet of a visitor, and then learned otherwise.  Lazar lives there.  He was rescued from a shelter and adopted by a family in the community who realized the benefits of animals, plants and children in a senior environment.

 

 

This book serves as an entree to discussing the elderly with children. Why was it important to you to get that message out there? I was fortunate to have grown up in a multi generational household and established strong, meaningful relationships with my grandparents.  Additionally, I spent a great deal of time with my mother (obm) and her friends and they impacted my life and the way I looked at life in many ways.  When I learned that animals, plants and children actually made for happier, healthier seniors (The Eden Alternative — a study on aging), I knew that I had to pique the interest of children and encourage them to connect with their elders.

 

 

Your bio says that you used to have a career in teaching. Where and to what ages did you teach? I have both a BA and an MA in Secondary English/French.  I taught after-school Jewish studies to Pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah students and also substitute taught for many years. 

 

 

What led you to want to write a book? I have always enjoyed writing and teaching.  What better way to reach a child than with a picture book in verse with an important message? 

 

You are part of a growing trend of authors who self-publish their books. Canyou tell us a little about your publishing experience? I was anxious to “get the word out there,” and decided to try self-publishing. I did some extensive research, i.e., talked to many writers, illustrators, and self publishing houses.  Even spoke to the author of a “how-to” self-publish book.  It was a bit daunting.  I learned a lot.  I vetted the book with friends, family, etc., then selected a self-publishing house I felt was most appropriate for my needs.   All in all — the process, the product, and the response I’ve received have been positive. 

 

 

How did you find your illustrator?  I looked at many styles of illustration … mainly from a roster of illustrators who work for self-publishing firms.  Their work, although pleasing, did not “talk to me.”  I then was referred to Linda Robinson and she sent me a sampling of styles she’d created.  I immediately connected with both her and her style.  I was thrilled with the way she connected to the text on a personal level.  She is a fantastic person and a serious, professional illustrator.  What a wonderful combination.

 

Is there anything else about you or your book that you would like to share? I am proud to say that I am now in my second printing and a portion of the proceeds of the book is contributed to the Fleischman Residence/Blumberg Plaza, Jewish Senior Life of Metropolitan Detroit. 

 

Thanks, Myrna. Good luck with the book!

Thank you, Ann.

Lazar the Good Deed Dog is available on Amazon  here.