Based on a true story and benefiting the Star Valley Animal Humane Society (a.k.a. Lucky’s Place), “Feisty’s Journey Home”, combines humor and heart.

The book was inspired by Star Valley’s very own Stephanie Wardle’s story as she helped her sister and several animals move to Kansas City, Missouri from Star Valley nearly a decade ago. The animals “included two dogs, two cats, and two rats – all in one vehicle,” shared Wardle.

After sharing the journey, friends had told her the adventure of the move would make a fun children’s book. Wardle didn’t think much of it until this past spring when her sister’s cat, Feisty, passed away and she decided she would love to tribute the story to Feisty and share it with others.

Wardle searched for a children’s author to help put her story into words, leading to Wardle teaming up with children’s author Heather Gaytan.

Gaytan shared how she always dreamed as a little girl to raise horses and write books. Her first book was written just last year after mentioning to her young son about writing a book about their horse, Luna. Her son decided to share this with his friends and teachers, so news spread and she decided she had better write it and “go all-in” with her dream, making it her fourth book.

Her past books are for early readers, ages 1-8. The titles include “Lazy Luna”, “Silly Sweetie”, and “Charming Charlie”.

The author and Wardle were able to connect and write the book. She mentioned that  “Feisty’s Journey Home”, “resonates with families, animal lovers, and classrooms. This is perfect for readers ages 6-10.”

Wardle has helped with fundraisers in the past for Lucky’s Place. During the winter months, donations are much more scarce for the shelter, so Wardle decided that a great way to continue that help during the winter months would be to give 100% of book profits each month to the animal shelter.

With “Feisty’s Journey Home”, Wardle and Gaytan have created a heartfelt tribute that celebrates adventure, compassion, and the bond between people and animals. By donating 100% of the book’s monthly profits to Lucky’s Place, the story continues its journey beyond the page, helping support local animals in need and ensuring Feisty’s legacy lives on through kindness and community support.