“Clean Your Dog’s Poop!”

Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? follows a young girl who rescues a new puppy and leans all that is involved with pet ownership. What was the inspiration for your story?

I knew I wanted to write a humorous series for middle grade readers (ages 8-12) that was (an age appropriate) spinoff of the young adult story of Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, using Blaze’s little sister Maya as the protagonist. I wanted to weave in themes of dog care and responsibility while continuing the absurdity of the Puddin’ Heads vs. the Sweeties because the us vs. them polarization and thinking in the U.S. and beyond has become so ridiculous that even six-year-olds can see it. Because Maya’s best friend is a Sweetie visiting Puddin’ Head Island, the themes of friendship and courage are taken to new levels. I thought it would be interesting if the series revolved around an entire nation (Island Nation) suddenly having dogs for the first time. And Maya would be in the middle of learning how to take care of a rescue puppy, Waggers. My family’s lab mix, which has a ridiculous wagging tail, inspired the creation of Waggers. The character Boofie was inspired by pillow fights with my niece (boof!). Community complaints on social media about “clean your dog’s poop!” inspired book #1.

What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?

The values of responsibility, friendship, community, critical thinking, and inclusion rise to the top. As one reader said to me, “In a funny way, this story teaches kids to think critically.” That made my day.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

Find the courage to face fears and question ludicrous ideas. See the joy, wonder, and beauty alongside the mundane. Stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard. Find the unity in diversity.

What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?

It will be an even wilder story involving a stolen pooper scooper and a firestorm of upset neighbors. Spring 2024.

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A shipload of puppies and dogs has landed on Island Nation, but the Puddin’ Heads have no clue how to care for these mysterious creatures.

“I Have to Scoop What?” follows Maya and her best friend Lily’s hilarious efforts to take care of a new rescue puppy, Waggers, at Uncle Puddin’ Head’s home. But Maya refuses to scoop poop, her uncle really, really cares about his perfect lawn, and the odd neighbors aren’t exactly fans of Maya’s creative solutions in their yards.

A humorous tale of friendship, responsibility, and courage within one of the strangest neighborhoods you will ever see, hear, or smell.

A chapter book for ages 8 and up. I Have to Scoop What? is the book series launch of Maya and Waggers!

Children’s Fiction / Dogs / Humor / Adventure

Themes: dogs, animals, pet care and responsibility, humor, courage, friendship, community and inclusion, growing up.