Front Porch Non Profit: A Special Reading in Detroit

Reading The Worry Wags.

You spend the whole time imagining what the reactions will be to a project that has been close to your heart for so long. You picture the smiles, the laughter, maybe even the quiet moments of connection. Then the day comes—and to hear young voices not only enjoy the story, but also relate to the big feelings shared in the book—it’s indescribable. For me, it only justifies the need for The Worry Wags to find a place on shelves everywhere.

At our recent reading with Front Porch Non Profit in Detroit, I had the joy of sharing The Worry Wags aloud with children and families gathered together. The room was filled with curiosity, and as I began to read, I could see little faces light up. Some children laughed at Poppy’s silly dog moments, while others nodded along when Frankie wrestled with worries that felt a little too familiar. It was a reminder that kids don’t just listen to stories—they live inside them, finding comfort and recognition in every page.

What touched me most was hearing a few young voices speak up afterward. They shared how they, too, sometimes feel nervous, or how they use their pets for comfort when worries get too big. To know that Frankie and Poppy’s story helped them feel seen—that was everything.

This event is just the beginning. I dream of bringing The Worry Wags to more classrooms, libraries, and community spaces, so that more children can explore ways to talk about big feelings in a safe and playful way. My dream has always been simple: if even one reader benefits from Frankie and Poppy’s journey, then I’ve done what I set out to do.

Thank you to Front Porch Non Profit for creating a space where stories can be shared and where children’s voices matter. And thank you to every young listener who reminded me why The Worry Wags was written in the first place. This was the first of many readings I hope to share—and I cannot wait to see where Frankie and Poppy go next.