Diane Capogna Shares How Her Great Dane Inspired a Heartfelt Journey Into Children’s Literature
Photo: Author Diane Capogna, whose children’s books celebrate the joyful memories and lasting love shared with her beloved Great Dane, Abbey Rose.
A Story of Love, Loss, and the Healing Power of Storytelling
Diane Capogna transforms cherished memories with her Great Dane Abbey Rose into children’s books that teach love, responsibility, and resilience, blending real-life experience with early childhood education and creativity.
Diane Capogna has a special gift for turning life’s most emotional experiences into stories that comfort, entertain, and inspire. Her children’s books, based on the real-life adventures she shared with her beloved Great Dane, Abbey Rose, are filled with warmth, humor, and gentle wisdom. Through heartfelt storytelling and charming illustrations, Capogna invites readers into a world where pets are cherished family members, memories are precious, and every little moment counts.
What began as a personal form of healing during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into a literary journey that resonates with pet lovers and young readers alike. After losing Abbey during lockdown, Capogna began writing down their shared memories. At first, the stories were meant only for her family—but with encouragement from friends, she sent her manuscript to Saratoga Publishing LLC. The result was Puppy Comes Home, a tender debut that continues to touch hearts and keep Abbey’s spirit alive.
Capogna’s writing beautifully captures the emotional depth of pet companionship, offering comfort, joy, and wisdom to children and adults alike.
Capogna’s background in early childhood education deeply shaped her approach to writing. Her years spent working in daycare centers, studying children’s literature in college, and running her own daycare after her son was born helped her understand how to craft stories that engage and teach. She skillfully blends real-life experiences with creativity to create books that are both meaningful and developmentally appropriate.
Writing from Abbey’s perspective came naturally, Capogna says. “I looked at photos of our memories and wrote from the heart,” she shares. Because the stories were rooted in real life, she didn’t need to invent much—just find the right way to tell it to young readers. The challenge was in making the stories both entertaining and educational, a task she embraced with joy.
“Abbey was always my inspiration.” – Diane Capogna
One standout memory that made it into the book was Abbey’s love for dressing up. Whether in a Halloween costume or simply wearing a towel “pretending” to be a fancy dress, Abbey would beam with joy. Capogna fondly recalls a trip to the Pumpkin Festival in New Hampshire, where Abbey proudly wore her pumpkin costume, enjoyed grilled chicken from a food truck, and made friends everywhere she went.
Illustrator Anthony Richichi played a key role in bringing Abbey’s story to life. “When he sent me that first sketch of Abbey, I fell in love immediately,” Capogna recalls. The collaboration captured the spirit of Abbey’s real-life photos with warmth and accuracy. Richichi’s artwork has continued to feature in Capogna’s later projects, including her second book Abbey’s Special Gift, released in July 2024, and a related coloring book titled Color Puppy Home—a project inspired by the birth of her grandson, Jordan.
At the heart of Capogna’s stories is a message of love and responsibility. “Owning a pet is a big commitment, but it’s also incredibly rewarding,” she says. “They’re family and bring endless laughter and love.” Writing during the pandemic gave her the opportunity to be fully present for Abbey’s care, and also provided the time and space to be creative.
“The universe had this in the cards for me.” – Diane Capogna
The response from readers has been deeply meaningful. Capogna treasures the conversations she’s had with families at events—many of whom share stories of their own beloved pets. “There have been a few tear-jerking moments,” she admits. “But those are sacred exchanges. I feel honored that people open up to me like that.”
Looking ahead, Capogna is continuing to share Abbey’s legacy. A third book is already written and is expected to go into production in 2026. Every story she writes continues to feature Abbey, a testament to their unbreakable bond.
For anyone looking to turn personal memories into children’s literature, Capogna offers this heartfelt advice: “If you have a special memory, write about it. Whether it’s a fun day at school or a family vacation, look at photos and just start writing. Even if you don’t publish, it’s great therapy—and it keeps those memories alive.”
Through her books, Diane Capogna has created more than just stories—she’s built a legacy of love, healing, and heartfelt connection.
