Diane Capogna Shares the Heartfelt Journey Behind Her Beloved Children’s Books

PHOTO: Author Diane Capogna, whose touching children’s books honor the joyful adventures and lasting memory of her beloved dog Abbey Rose.

Diane Capogna reflects on transforming her bond with Great Dane Abbey Rose into heartfelt children’s books, blending real-life memories, early childhood education, and creativity to inspire young readers and pet lovers

Diane Capogna has a gift—not just for storytelling, but for transforming love and loss into something deeply meaningful for readers of all ages. Her children’s books, inspired by the real-life adventures she shared with her beloved Great Dane Abbey Rose, are warm, humorous, and gently wise. Through heartfelt prose and charming illustrations, Diane invites us into a world where pets are family, memories are treasures, and every moment—no matter how small—is worth cherishing.

Her background in early childhood education shines through in every page, blending life lessons with child-friendly wonder. What began as a private act of healing during the pandemic has become a growing literary series that touches hearts and sparks conversations about love, responsibility, and the lasting bonds we share with our animal companions. Diane’s work is a beautiful reminder that from grief can come joy, and from memory can come magic.

We’re proud to feature this conversation with Diane Capogna, where she shares the inspiration behind her writing, the creative process of bringing Abbey’s story to life, and her heartfelt advice for aspiring authors.

Diane Capogna is a compassionate storyteller whose heartfelt books celebrate the unbreakable bond between humans and their beloved animal companions.

What inspired you to turn your personal experience with Abbey Rose into a children’s book?

Abbey was always my inspiration. She was diagnosed with a serious heart condition just under the age of 2. My husband and I were told we only had 6-18 months with her, and we were devastated. With a lot of hands-on deck for her care, we had her for 3 more years and vowed to not leave her for the time we had left. We had many beautiful adventures with her. We lost her during COVID and in times of grief, I wrote about those adventures. The stories were meant for my family and not the public initially. A friend suggested numerous times that I publish. I was told, you could share her story with the world. I sent my script to Saratoga Publishing LLC and here we are! Her memory lives on!

How did your background in Early Childhood education influence the way you wrote Puppy Comes Home?

I took creative writing and poetry in High School and always loved to write. In those early years, I also worked at a few daycare centers. Once I started College, I had an amazing Instructor that could captivate an audience of children with a song and a story. Children’s Literature was one of my favorite courses. I loved to watch her, amazed at her talent. I was always torn between a path in Journalism or Teaching.  Upon the birth of my son, I owned and operated my own daycare center. This fulfilled my outlet for creativity. All these things led me to writing my books. The universe had this in the cards for me.

“I looked at photos of our memories and wrote from the heart.” — Diane Capogna

What was the most challenging part of writing from a puppy’s perspective?

Honestly, it wasn’t a challenge at all. Abbey was my world, and I knew her very well. I looked at photos of our memories and wrote from the heart. I didn’t need to create a story as it was already there in the memories. Making sure it was appealing to a young audience while adding humor and lessons was the fun part!

Can you share a favorite real-life memory with Abbey that made it into the book?

I would have to say where it speaks to her loving to dress up. All the illustrations of her costumes were from real photos. She loved to dress up. Even if you draped a towel over her and told her it was a pretty dress, she would be so happy. One fun fact although not in the book, was when we went to the Pumpkin Festival. She wore her pumpkin costume and I dressed up as well and we went to New Hampshire for a long weekend. She walked around proud in her costume, ate grilled chicken from the food truck and had many nice people pet her and show her love.

“Even if you don’t publish, it is a great therapy and it keeps those special memories alive.” — Diane Capogna

How did collaborating with illustrator Anthony Richichi shape the final look and feel of the story?

Anthony is very talented. He knew exactly where I was coming from in bringing my live photos to life. When he sent me that first sketch of Abbey, I fell in love immediately. I love the cover especially. I had a vision, and he didn’t disappoint. He adds some of his own special touches along the way that I very much appreciate it. I continued to work with him on my second book, Abbey’s Special Gift that was published in July 2024. He is great to work with.

What message do you hope children take away from Abbey Rose’s journey?

That owning a pet is a big responsibility however very rewarding. They are family and can bring endless laughter and love.

How did writing during the pandemic affect your creative process?

During the pandemic it was a blessing in disguise for me to be able to work from home. I was able to be there 100% of the time for Abbey’s care. I utilized 3 wonderful women that helped with meds and potty breaks for Abbey during the day and was now able to do myself. With the world shut down it gave me the space and time to be creative.

What has been the most rewarding response you’ve received from a reader so far?

All my conversations I have with folks while working an event are rewarding. I get to tell them all about my girl and they get to share their pet stories. There have been a few tear-jerking moments where stories were shared of pets that have passed. I believe these are very tender moments and feel honored that folks are willing to share. I feel I am giving them an outlet to share with someone who cares and understands what they are going through.

“They are family and can bring endless laughter and love.” — Diane Capogna

Are you planning to write more stories about Abbey Rose or other animals in the future?

Yes, I am still promoting my second book Abbey’s Special Gift that introduces a new character. I have a coloring book called Color Puppy Home that I released in between both books. I had a grandson born named Jordan and he was the inspiration behind this. I do have a third written now, and hope to start the process on this in 2026. All stories have my Abbey in them.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors who want to turn personal experiences into children’s literature?

When I go into the schools, I always tell the kids that if you have a special memory, write about it. This could be a special playdate they had, an amazing day at school, family vacation etc. Look at photos of these memories and start writing. Even if you don’t publish, it is a great therapy and it keeps those special memories alive.

Puppy Comes Home

Puppy Comes Home is a charming story about a Great Dane puppy finding her forever family. Told from the puppy’s perspective, it highlights the joys and challenges of pet ownership. With heartwarming illustrations and a gentle message about responsibility and love, it’s a perfect read for children and dog lovers.