Book Nook: Isosceles' Day

When author and illustrator Kevin Meehan walked into the animal shelter and met Isosceles, a black lab mix, he knew they were meant to be. Isosceles had being chained up in a backyard, likely abused for the first three years of his life with little to no human interaction, even during Wyoming’s hard and frigid winters. Meehan had a very special understanding of what Isosceles had endured, as he himself grew up without much of a home, love or sense of protection. He adopted Isosceles, and for the first time in his life, Isosceles was introduced to a warm house, a warm bed, and could explore the beautiful outdoors with his new owner, free of chains and the confined backyard where he once lived.  

The special relationship that Meehan and Isosceles formed became the inspiration behind his new children’s picture book, Isosceles’ Day, a whimsical tale that takes readers through a quirky day in the life of Isosceles as he interacts with a variety of other furry, feathered and friendly animals. 

Meehan also did all of the illustrations for the book, which are stunning. I had a chance to interview him to learn more.

1. Why did you decide to write this book?  

When taking Isosceles on hikes in the forest, he will venture off the trail; out of my sight; sometimes for extended periods of time. I would often imagine what he would be doing while out of my sight. This book is my own impression of what he sees and does during these times. What do our pets do when we are not in their presence?

2. What are some important things to consider when adopting a pet from a shelter?  

Assessing if the animal was malnourished and to address the nutrient requirement if necessary. Assess if the animal was abused; not only emotionally but physically and be willing to take the time to address the trauma experienced from the abuse. I feel it is often easier than one would think when helping a pet recover from trauma. In my own experience, the idea of emotional "osmosis" works well with dogs. They pick up and often adapt to their owners own emotions. If we are stressed or calm, they will express that emotion.  

3. What has been your biggest surprise with your new furry friend? 

How quickly he has made himself "comfortable" in the house and his immediate response to making new friends (more with humans than other canines). His quick recovery back to health from a malnourished state was a surprise. To me, this indicated just how much he wanted to be loved and cared for.