by Joy Luke (Author) When Pippin was a tiny puppy, he became very ill and spent a lot of time in the hospital. As much as he loved the doctors and nurses who cared for him, he dreamed of getting well and spending time in his lovely flower garden. Because of his illness, Pippin faced many challenges. In The Story of Pippin, author Joy Luke offers seven Pippin stories for grandparents, parents, and teachers to read a story a day to young children. The tales are based on the real life of a little Tibetan Spaniel dog named Pippin who was sick and required several stays in the hospital. Pippin made a great recovery, became a visitation dog and was enjoyed by the residents of the nursing and retirement facilities he regularly visited. Through words and pictures, The Story of Pippin helps children learn empathy and sympathy for others who may be sick or lonely.The stories also call attention to the flowers, colors and sounds that surround them and can make children aware of natures beauty. Author Biography Joy Luke spent her early childhood on a farm in the rural West Country of England. She was an only and very lonely child. She delighted in all the farm animals and enjoyed drawing and painting them from a very early age. She delighted in the stories of Beatrix Potter and searched for the characters in Kenneth Grahames The Wind in the Willows and due to her isolation she became an avid reader and collector of books. Her beloved little Tibetan Spaniel dog Pippin is a very real character and the facts of his illness are true. Joy Luke moved to the USA in 1969 where she created an international fine arts gallery and has spent her adult life involved in the arts, teaching continuing education courses and fund raising. Due to her interest in art, in gardening and flowers she developed an interest in fine porcelain with floral decoration. In 1991 she founded the Pickard Collectors Club. After retirement she moved to Northwest Florida and spends her time painting, writing childrens stories and working in her garden. Joy is also familiar with fighting for good health. She is a cancer survivor and has great empathy with all who are fighting for better health and particularly those battling childhood illnesses. Number of Pages: 42 Dimensions: 0.25 x 11 x 8.5 IN Publication Date: May 08, 2018