Author Q& A With Jean M. Alfieri
Jean Alfieri is an award-winning author, speaker, and dog fan. She finds hope and joy in her work at the Humane Society and in the lives of her rescue pups. She is an avid proponent of adopting all dogs: pure or mixed breeds, big or small, young or “vintage” (her preference). Jean and her husband joke that although they pay the mortgage on their home in Colorado, it’s really the dogs’ house. Meet Jean:
You are an author, but is it your day job? If not, what fills your days? I’m an author, speaker, and dog fan. When I’m not writing, I may be visiting a school or conducting a class at different community gatherings. I also support local dog rescues. If the weather is nice, you’ll find me out walking our pack of pups.
Did you always want to be an author? I’ve enjoyed journaling since I was seven years old, and I spun my first fiction story, which won a state library competition, when I was thirteen. But I had long forgotten about that until I hit 40 and realized I still love to write. That put me on the path to publication.
What is your most recent book? 21 Ways to Weather the Loss of Your Pet is an idea guide with writing, art, and other project ideas to honor and remember your pet. And in creating these lasting memories, they are grieving their loss.
What inspired you to write it? I write children’s books about my superstar rescue pug, named Zuggy. A few years ago, I was visiting a 2nd grade class. I thought I was ready for their Q&A, but I was not prepared when a student raised his hand and asked me if I had ever had a dog that died.
My heart dropped. My husband and I adopt senior dogs; we call them vintage puppies. So, I understood this boy’s pain. Although I didn’t intend to start a 2nd grade therapy group that day, the discussion went well. I later learned from the teacher what a struggle this young student was having over the loss of his dog. It was then that I realized I may have something to offer to help fellow dog fans, young and old, deal with the pain of losing a beloved pet.
How do you hope your book will uplift readers? I hope it will help people understand that the grief we experience over the loss of a pet is real and legitimate. Too often, we try to bury that sorrow because others may think it isn’t significant. This book can help pet lovers navigate loss by honoring and accepting it. It can also be a resource to help friends and family members who are grieving.
What advice would you give someone wanting to succeed as an author? You must be engaged in every aspect of it, from writing, editing, and revising to marketing and selling. Regardless of whether you are traditionally or independently published, it is up to the author to create a great book and see it through to promotion.
What do you find most fulfilling about being an author? I love interacting with readers. Book events and school visits are a huge morale boost. When you’ve huddled over a manuscript for months, if not years, it is such a rush to hear how the book positively impacted someone; knowing it was enjoyed is the biggest thrill.
Get to know Jean and get a copy of her latest book through her website.
