Author writes from personal experiences

“The book is one that speaks to hope,” she said.

“Not all events in this book are real – but all the emotions are.”

Local writer and architect, Pienaar bravely bared her feelings in the depiction of her main character Jessie. Through the writing of the novel, Pienaar said she was able to work through emotions that she herself had gone through when she was younger.

“Grief cannot be measured – it can derail anyone’s life, and if not dealt with, can destroy it,” she said.

Talking about Bobby, the author explained how, although the story of Jessie was not based on the accounts of someone else’s life, the events leading to the death of the dog were.

“In the book the story of the dog, Bobby, is based on factual events of the life of a dog I used to know,” she said.

Pienaar explained how Bobby affirmed the unbreakable bond between man and dog. She explored the timeless connection between the two, and how it can conquer all in the face of adversity and sorrow.

“Kindness [is] one of the topics. I can only hope that the novel… [touches] the lives of those who read it… as well as inspire those who have either gone, or are going, through grief,” said Pienaar.

Admitting that many of her followers are animal lovers, she said she hoped the book would educate those who have animals but don’t know how to treat them.

“I also speak to school children about animals, and I feel that talking and teaching people about how to treat animals while they are young, could have a ripple effect on the number of animals that are neglected or treated badly.”

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