Newest book, ‘Hero Finds His Path,’ is based on life of author’s own Samoyed

He began as a show dog, white, cuddly and friendly. Hero won ribbons for his owner Susan Amundson of Hastings. But he never grew tall or big enough for the real competitions in the dog world.

But that “rejection” led to another path for Hero and he became famous through books, toys and puppets.

In her latest book, “Hero Finds Another Path,” Amundson tells Hero’s story, a true story. After his rejection, her Samoyed dog brought joy to others in another way.

Hero tells his own story and that is a new approach for Amundson in her storytelling. Also new is that this book is based on a poem.

“That was difficult – I was converting verse to prose,” she said. “Then, you are usually writing third person, but this is told by Hero himself.”

"Hero Finds His Path" is a true story about a Samoyed puppy who is a confident young show puppy who thinks he knows his future. But when he experiences rejection a whole new path is discovered. The story is one of glory, rejection and finding real happiness.

For years, Amundson was a nurse at the former Cooper Elementary school. After she retired, she and Hero would visit different classrooms there. The response has always stayed with her.

“The kids loved him,” she said. “They thought he was so cute and friendly.”

So did others who often would see Amundson out walking with Hero on the city’s trails. The stories began, then continued. Hero had found a new “path” – bringing joy to others.

Artist Nan Holt, who Amundson met at Samoyed conventions, has collaborated with Amundson to create beautifully- colored illustrations on each page of the book.

The Khobi and Hero books include “A Child’s Happy Heart,” “Free to Be Me,” and “Mikey Makes the Team.” The standalone book, “Three Little Lambs … Somewhere,” has also been published. “A Child’s Heart” has been transitioned into a play and is available for performances.

And Amundson is not done writing. She has three more titles filed with the Library of Congress.

She will be at Lah Tee Dah Boutique in downtown Hastings from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday, Nov. 24, for a book signing. Copies of the book will be available.

“Hero Finds His Path” is available to be used as a fundraiser, said Amundson. She gives 50 percent of sales back to the organization. Currently the book is being used nationally in the Samoyed Rescue Group.

For more information, visit www.toysammy.com.

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