Peaches and the 19 Cobras
by Paula Bailey
1derfulife Publishing


"Mommy would put a mask on us, turn around to get the camera, and by the time she turned back, we had our masks off and were sitting there smiling and looking innocent."

In 2020, as a global pandemic gripped the world, daily life became marked by social distancing, mask-wearing, and quarantines. Bailey’s two rescue dogs, Peaches and Jake, were understandably confused—mishearing the oft-repeated “Covid-19” as something to do with “nineteen cobras,” The two pooches’ hilarious antics and playfully mischievous adventures of the time are collected here for the general reader’s enjoyment.

Adorable photographs document the household canine shenanigans. Peaches’ older brother Jake, the “man of the house,” is extremely protective, guarding their Florida home from the unfathomable “cobras.” However, there is much to be said for lighthearted distraction, and clowning around becomes routine as Peaches and Jake have fun with the matching masks adorned with jewels and sparkles, which Bailey handcrafted for them. The trio celebrates Peaches’ seventh birthday, showcases photographs (and stories) of their home’s impressive Christmas tree collection, undertakes remodeling projects, and introduces numerous real-life friends, neighbors, and extended family members. They travel, RV-style, to their summer cottage in Maine, create “Special Angel” keepsakes for first responders and caregivers, and much more.

Bailey’s writing style, narrated from Peaches’ perspective, is down-home casual, full of frolic, and just plain fun. This makes for an incredibly joyful read, featuring a heartwarming collection of true-life stories from the pandemic era. The author’s natural knack for storytelling is enhanced through the inclusion of a diverse range of engaging photographs. From gorgeous flower gardens surrounding the Maine cottage to images of a “lobster feast” for family and a Hawaiian Luau with friends to numerous shots of the playful pooches themselves, readers are treated to a visually delightful celebration. Laughter and fun are essential to the trio’s lives, along with a healthy dose of helping others. And, it happens, this, too, sums up well the spirit of this unique picture book.

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