By: Harold D. Thomas
There’s a special kind of magic in the moment a child meets their very first furry best friend—the excitement in their eyes, the giggles that follow a wet puppy kiss, and the joy of unconditional love that can last for years. Author Gina Saporito has captured this feeling in her upcoming children’s book, A Puppy for Selena, a heartwarming story that reminds us all of the joy of friendship, love, and responsibility.
At the heart of the story is Selena, a bright, animal-loving little girl who fills her days with adventure. She enjoys exploring, swinging beneath the big shady tree in her front yard, and visiting the nearby farm where chickens cluck, cows graze, and dogs wag their tails at her arrival. Wherever Selena goes, animals bring her joy, and every animal she meets becomes a friend. But more than anything, Selena dreams of having a puppy of her very own. It’s not just a fleeting wish; it’s a dream that fills her heart day after day. She imagines what it would be like to have a soft little friend to feed, walk, and snuggle with at night when the world grows quiet.
What makes Selena unique is that she doesn’t just wish for a puppy—she prepares for one. Determined to show her parents that she’s ready for the responsibility, she creates her very own “Puppy Care Plan.” With crayons, stickers, and her greatest determination, she writes out everything she will do: feed the puppy breakfast and dinner, brush it every day, go on walks, play fetch, and give it endless hugs. At the bottom of her chart, she draws a heart and writes the words that sum up her big, little heart perfectly: “I will love my best friend forever.” This simple act in the story plants a beautiful message for young readers: caring for a pet is about more than just cuddles and fun—it’s about commitment, patience, and love. Children who read Selena’s journey are not only entertained but also gently introduced to the values of responsibility and empathy in a way that feels inspiring, rather than instructional.
The story takes a joyful turn when Selena wakes up one morning to discover something waiting for her in the living room. In a basket tied with a big bow is a tiny, fluffy puppy with bright brown eyes full of curiosity and warmth. It’s a dream come true. Selena names him Buttons, inspired by his button-like eyes, and from that moment, the two become inseparable. Together, Selena and Buttons play in the yard, explore the world around them, and share the kind of love only a child and her puppy can know. The story closes with a feeling of hope and joy, showing readers that dreams, when combined with love and responsibility, can indeed come true.
While there are many children’s books about pets, A Puppy for Selena stands out because of its tender balance of relatability and inspiration. Every child has wished for something dearly—whether it’s a pet, a toy, or a special adventure. Selena’s journey speaks directly to that longing, while also guiding children through the steps of proving they are ready for the things they want. Buttons, of course, add irresistible charm. His playful personality and puppy antics will make children laugh, while his bond with Selena will tug at the hearts of parents reading along. Together, they create a timeless duo that young readers will likely remember fondly.
Right now, the story is being brought to life with beautiful illustrations that capture Selena’s innocence and Buttons’ playful spirit. The first glimpses of Selena and her puppy are already winning hearts—from Selena on her swing beneath the old tree to the heart-melting moment she meets Buttons for the first time. These illustrations do more than decorate the story; they bring it alive, offering children a chance to see themselves in Selena’s shoes and feel the warmth of Buttons’ wagging tail.
A Puppy for Selena isn’t just a book for families with pets. It’s a universal story about dreaming, preparing, and cherishing friendship—themes every child can connect with. Parents will enjoy sharing it as a bedtime story, especially those teaching their children about responsibility. Teachers will find it a wonderful addition to classrooms, where it can spark conversations about caring for others. And for children’s book lovers, this title is a treasure that introduces them to a fresh new voice in storytelling—author Gina Saporito.
As a first-time author, Gina Saporito brings genuine heart to her writing. Her goal is not just to entertain children, but to leave them with values and emotions they can carry forward. With A Puppy for Selena, she has created a story that feels timeless—the kind of book children will want to read again and again, and parents will be glad to have on their shelves.
Though still in production, A Puppy for Selena is already making waves. Communities of parents, teachers, and children’s book enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as early previews are shared. With Selena and Buttons ready to leap into the world, this book is expected to become one of those special titles that grows not just in sales, but in hearts and memories. Keep your eyes open—Selena and Buttons will soon be ready to bound off the page and straight into your heart. Whether you’re looking to add warmth to your child’s library or searching for a story that sparks love and responsibility, A Puppy for Selena is one to keep an eye on.
