By: A. Hall, Media Buzz
In a tender tribute to the pets who shape our lives and the friendships that help us heal, Heather Margotta steps into the world of children’s literature with her debut Stubby and the Dane. A former textiles executive turned storyteller, Margotta introduces readers to an unlikely but endearing pair of pups in a series that’s already resonating with many.
The first installment in a planned 12-part series, Stubby and the Dane tells the story of two very different dogs meeting for the first time on a peaceful countryside farm. Inspired by real-life pets—Stubby, the family’s late mastiff, and Winston and Annabelle, the family’s current Great Danes—the book gently explores themes of grief, new beginnings, and connection.
“Stubby was a huge part of our family. Losing him to cancer was heartbreaking,” Margotta shares. “Writing this story became a way for me to process that loss and celebrate the joyful, goofy spirit he brought into our lives. Dane, the shy but curious character in the story, is really a blend of Winston’s cautious nature and Annabelle’s sweetness.”
Set against the serene backdrop of a farm rather than the usual city or shelter scene, the book offers a refreshing twist on typical dog adoption stories. “I wanted something open, peaceful—somewhere that felt like a clean slate for both characters,” Margotta explains. “A farm just felt like the perfect place for new beginnings.”
The book’s sing-song rhythm and rich vocabulary are tailored for preschool through first-grade readers, creating the right read-aloud experience for parents, teachers, and caregivers. “I love playful language,” she says. “I wanted children to not only enjoy the story but to grow from it—learn a few new words, ask a few new questions.”
Before her literary debut, Heather spent more than 20 years in the textile industry. But storytelling, she says, was always in her heart. A military child who moved frequently, Heather found comfort in writing poetry, journaling, and creating stories. “I never stopped writing,” she reflects. “This book felt like the moment when all of that came together. It was like the story had been waiting for me.”
Helping Margotta bring Stubby and the Dane to life was longtime friend and fellow writer Kristen Johnson. “Kristen’s support meant the world to me. She helped me navigate the publishing world and kept me grounded through every step. She’s more than a mentor—she’s family.”
Fans of the first book won’t have to wait long for more. The second adventure in the series is already slated for release next week, continuing the light-hearted mischief and heartfelt moments of Stubby and the Dane. “From holiday shenanigans to amusement park antics, these two have plenty of adventures ahead,” Margotta teases. “The stories celebrate family, brotherhood, and the small joys that make childhood magical.”
Looking ahead, Heather dreams of seeing Stubby and the Dane come to life on screen. “I’ve always admired the Llama Llama series. To see these characters animated would be amazing. I think children would connect deeply with their personalities and their message.”
About the Author
Heather Margotta lives a life as rich and spirited as the characters she writes about. As a mom of three and a devoted dog lover, her stories are rooted in love, healing, and the simple joys of everyday connection. Through Stubby and the Dane, she’s not just telling a story—she’s inviting families everywhere to slow down, snuggle up, and discover the beauty of a loyal friend. She encourages other aspiring authors in this way: “Just start. If the story is in your heart, honor that. Everything else—editing, illustrating, publishing—can be learned or outsourced. What matters is the voice. Yours.”
To purchase Stubby and the Dane, visit [Amazon Book Link: https://a.co/d/frP890o].
To learn more about the series or to connect with Heather, follow her on:
FB: Stubby and the Dane
IG: StubbyandtheDane
TikTok: StubbyandtheDane