We were very sad and searched everywhere for a long time. Finally, we came to accept the fact that Tina wasn't coming back. Like the family in this book, we hoped she had found someone who loved her as much as we did. Still, as time passed, I couldn't help wondering what would happen if we did see Tina again. What if she were happy in her new home? What if her new family wouldn't want to give her back? What would we do?

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Somehow, I felt that decision would have to be Zach's, and so I wrote the story about Tina in his voice, confident my understanding of his nature would lead me to the conclusion. But I didn’t write the story because I thought it would make a good book. I wrote it to help me feel better. And it did. Working out my thoughts and feelings through the writing process helped lift the sadness I carried inside.

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Years later, after I started writing and illustrating children’s books, I discovered the story tucked away in my files. I thought the theme, and many of the issues it raises, (as well as the funny incidents!) would appeal to young readers, so I decided to publish it. Judging from the letters I've received, I'm glad I did!