By: Matt Emma
Children’s author Maryanne Wood never expected her most meaningful stories would begin with heartbreak. But when her sister became terminally ill and asked Maryanne to care for her two basset hounds, Randall and Hunter, something quietly extraordinary began to unfold.
Randall and Hunter weren’t just pets. They became emotional anchors during a time of grief, offering comfort, companionship, and unexpected lessons in strength. After moving from California to Maryanne’s home in Vermont, the dogs adjusted to new people, colder seasons, and unfamiliar surroundings. Their calm resilience was striking. It was in those quiet moments, watching them find joy again, that the seed of a children’s book series began to grow, and now the Randall & Hunter Go with the Flow series is a reality.
A Quiet Nudge from Beyond
Though Maryanne had long wanted to become a published author, it wasn’t until after Randall passed away that the idea became something more than a wish. During a meditation, she experienced a moment of deep clarity. She felt Randall’s presence encouraging her to tell their story, not just for herself, but for others who might need it.
That moment became the starting point for a heartfelt journey. Today, Maryanne is the author of a self-published three-book series based on the real-life adventures of Randall and Hunter. The books, written for children ages 4 to 8, explore themes of emotional resilience, adaptation, and love through the experiences of the two dogs who changed her life.
“Whenever I thought about Randall and Hunter’s adaptability, what came to mind was going with the flow,” says Maryanne. “I decided to use these words of encouragement throughout all three books. Randall reminds Hunter that they are adaptable Basset Hounds who go with the flow, like the river to the ocean.” “I think this is a great metaphor for life, no matter what age you are.”
Helping Families Talk About Big Feelings
What makes these books so impactful isn’t just the charming illustrations or the sweet animal antics. It’s the emotional foundation behind every story. Each book offers children and their families a safe and gentle way to talk about the difficult parts of life—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, moving to a new place, or learning to live with a disability.
One particularly moving story comes from Book 2, where Hunter loses his eyesight. Despite the sudden shift, he continues to do the things he loves, including leaping up onto the family recliner for a sniff of coffee, something he’d done every morning before going blind. That moment, small as it seems, becomes a powerful lesson in faith, trust, and courage. It reminds children that even when life changes in unexpected ways, joy and independence are still possible.
A Message That Resonates Across Generations
Maryanne brings a unique voice to the world of children’s literature. As a retired professional dog trainer and lifelong animal lover, she understands canine behavior and body language in a way that adds depth and realism to every page. But what truly sets her stories apart is their emotional honesty. Children relate naturally to animals, and these stories use that connection to open the door to important conversations.
Parents who read the books aloud often find themselves just as moved as their kids. The stories don’t shy away from difficult topics, but they approach them with warmth, humor, and grace. They offer comfort, not just to children, but to families as a whole.
A One-Woman Mission with a Big Vision
As a self-published author, Maryanne wears many hats. Writing comes naturally to her, but marketing the series and reaching new readers requires both persistence and creativity. She manages everything herself, from author events and social media to community outreach. Her goal is clear: to put these books in the hands of children who might benefit from them most.
She hopes one day to see the series in homes, classrooms, and libraries across the country. While the books may have started as a tribute to the dogs her sister left behind, they’ve grown into something far more enduring: a legacy of love, resilience, and healing.
If you’re looking for a story that could touch your heart and help your child feel braver, these books may be just the thing. You can learn more or purchase copies at www.maryannewood.com.
A gift of two dogs became a gift for countless children—and the stories are only just beginning.
