About The Author
Joanne Stubenberg
For over 30 years, I worked as a banker. It was a career I loved. But when I became a grandmother, everything changed.
My heart changed.
I have two wonderful grandsons, Stanley and Bristow. Their parents read to them every night, and when they are with me, we read together. Over the years, I built a large collection of children’s books, and one day, I realized how much I loved them. Not just reading them — but the feeling they create.
That’s when I decided I wanted to become an author.
Creativity runs in my family, and I discovered I had a love for illustration as well. I create all of the artwork in my books myself. I always keep happy movies playing while I draw, because I believe joy shows up in the pictures when you feel it while creating them.
I lived my entire life in Hawaii. Five years ago, my daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons moved to Bali, and I suddenly became a world traveler. That adventure has broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for family, culture, and connection.
But through every chapter of my life, one thing has remained constant — dogs.
My family has always had Dachshunds. One litter was even named Bibity, Bobity, and Boo. They have always been part of our hearts and our home.
Jo Jo, the inspiration behind The Crooked Dog series, came into my life on Mother’s Day in 2011. I received a call from a rescue group about a sweet little Dachshund who needed a home. That was it. He was ours forever.
Jo Jo had a difficult start. A few months after joining us, he broke his back. With time, care, and patience, he healed. He walks a little crooked now — and that’s exactly how the series got its name.
I firmly believe that when you bring a pet into your home, it is for life. They are not temporary. They are forever family.
My oldest dog, Lucy, recently passed away at 15 years old. Today, I share my home with Nani, who is nearly 16 and thriving, and Jo Jo, who we believe is about 6 years old. He was found running loose on a golf course — terrified, skinny, with no tag and no microchip. No one ever came looking for him. I still cannot imagine how that happens.
But I do know this:
Any pet will live a long, healthy life with love, care, exercise, and a good diet. They are like children. Love them well, and they will love you back every second of their lives.
The Crooked Dog series is my way of sharing that message with families everywhere.
A Note From Joanne
Rescue dogs have the biggest hearts. Children do too.
When we teach kindness early, we shape a more compassionate world.
I hope Jo Jo’s story brings warmth to your home and reminds every child that being a little different is something to celebrate.
