Ruth Gordon Knihy

Though separated by an ocean, the sister cities of San Diego and Edinburgh had one thing in common. They were both graced with dogs whose lives became the stuff of legend. In San Diego, a free-spirited half St. Bernard, half spaniel, all mutt named Bum, managed to capture the hearts, and somehow admiration, of many of the city's citizens. With his strong character and carefree manner, he always managed to stand out from the crowd.And in Edinburgh, a Sky terrier named Bobby became the very symbol of loyalty when after the passing of his master, he continued to visit his master's grave year after year, come rain or shine.

The collection features true stories highlighting the profound connections between dogs and humans, showcasing various canine characters—from working dogs to beloved pets and even famous ones. Each narrative emphasizes themes of kindness, hope, and redemption, illustrating how these animals and their human counterparts uplift each other. Through tales of resilience and companionship, the book celebrates the powerful bonds that foster benevolence and friendship, proving that the best in both species can shine through acts of love and support.

Ruth Gordon's memoir recounts her life journey from Switzerland to England, where her passion for ballet led her to meet Simon Gordon, a talented pianist and conductor. Their whirlwind romance culminated in marriage just weeks after their meeting in 1978. Unbeknownst to her at the time, Simon had been battling schizophrenia since childhood. The narrative also touches on the challenges and joys of motherhood, particularly following the birth of their son, Matthew, in 1980.

Focusing on the challenges of dyscalculia, this resource provides insights for children, parents, educators, therapists, and psychologists. It shares the personal journey of the author's granddaughter, who faced difficulties with math until her diagnosis at age nine. With the identification of her learning disability, she learned to leverage her strengths and address her weaknesses, ultimately rebuilding her confidence. The book aims to empower others navigating similar struggles, offering guidance and support.

Emphasizing the theme of diversity, this book arose from a conversation about the colorful variety of fruits and vegetables, paralleling the differences among people. Inspired by their discussion, authors Ruth and Barbara crafted a narrative aimed at teaching children the values of embracing differences, acceptance, and mutual understanding. Through relatable imagery and engaging storytelling, it encourages young readers to appreciate the beauty in diversity.

While the impact of rapid technological change is often discussed in relation to the Global North, this book explores its effects on the development of the Global South. It outlines an evolving global hierarchy and shows how technology is making more things both conceivable and achievable.