Elizabeth Scollon turns her dog’s rescue into a children’s book about adoption

Elizabeth Scollon’s The Adventures of Shadow: Finding a Home uses the true story of her dog Shadow to teach children about adoption, patience and belonging. The book also aims to support local shelters, with Scollon planning to donate part of the proceeds and encourage readers to help animals in need.

Why it matters: - The book turns a true rescue story into a kid-friendly message about adoption, compassion and family. - Scollon is tying the launch to shelter support, giving the project a real-world fundraising angle. - The story is aimed at children who have felt overlooked and need reassurance about belonging.

What happened: - Elizabeth Scollon wrote The Adventures of Shadow: Finding a Home, a children’s book illustrated by Riley Dosch. - The story is inspired by Scollon’s dog Shadow and follows a puppy waiting to be chosen at Adoption Day. - The book is available through the book listing.

The details: - Shadow’s brother gets adopted first, leaving Shadow behind and unsure whether anyone will choose him. - The puppy becomes lonely and withdrawn while waiting for a forever home. - The book uses Shadow’s journey to highlight courage, patience, friendship and the idea that everyone deserves a place where they belong. - Scollon said she wanted Shadow’s real story shared from the beginning. - Finding a Home is intended to be the first book in a continuing series about Shadow’s adventures. - Scollon plans to donate a portion of proceeds from each book to a local shelter. - Scollon also encourages families to support shelters by donating needed supplies.

Between the lines: - The book blends personal family history with advocacy, since Scollon’s children are adopted. - That connection broadens the message beyond pet rescue and into a larger view of family, care and inclusion. - The project also positions reading time as a way to introduce children to charitable action.

What’s next: - Scollon wants the book to reach children and families who may have felt left out or uncertain about their place. - The planned series suggests more Shadow stories could follow if the first book connects with readers. - Scollon is also seeking review copies and interview opportunities through BrightKey PR.

The bottom line: - Shadow’s story is being used to push a simple message: adoption changes lives, and every animal deserves a home.