• Age: 3 to 7
• Grade: p to 2

Zig Zag Zeffy is a heart-warming story of a hu-mom who adopts an energetic, fun-loving Puggle named Zeffy. It's a rhyming narrative that follows the pair as they develop an unbreakable bond. From Zeffy's adoption as a puppy, through a few growing pains, to obedience training and exploring the wide world outside, Zeffy and his hu-mom learn about each other, and about boundaries, and loving and living life. It's the first in a planned series that will teach themes such as inclusion and self-esteem with fun and rhythmic story-telling that ignites a child’s passion for reading, while developing knowledge and enhancing social interaction with animals as well as people.

Barbara Ann Miller's profile page

Barbara has been reading and writing stories since she was a child, finding inspiration in the people, animals and natural world that surrounded her. She has a particular passion for children’s literature and is a graduate of Child and Youth Studies from Mount Saint Vincent University. Barbara spent over three decades working in the non-profit sector beginning her career with a primary focus on early childhood education and administration, followed by a lifetime of working and volunteering with children, youth and families from around the world, developing and leading community programs in child care, youth services, immigration and employment.

Her love of children’s literature has led to her adding children’s author to her already long list of roles including speaker, writer and trainer on topics such as Fearless Leadership; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and Strategic Planning. She is currently the executive director of the Community Justice Society of Halifax, NS.

Her first children’s book will introduce young readers to a little dog named Zeffy, whose adventures will launch a series that will teach themes such as inclusion and self-esteem with fun and rhythmic story-telling that ignites a child’s passion for reading, while developing knowledge and enhancing social interaction with animals as well as people.

Everyone who knows a dog, owns a dog or hopes for a dog will adore Zig Zag Zeffy. It's a heart-warming tale of a human who adores a dog and a dog who adores his human, and they share lots of adventures together. This lovely tale is essentially about all of the goofy things that puppies do, as Zeffy rips up his toys, hides pieces of clothing and loves to take his owner for walks. With delightful illustrations and obvious emotional attachment, this is a picture book to enjoy again and again. Here's hoping there's a sequel! Jan Buley, Associate Professor, Faculty of Education Memorial University of Newfoundland & Labrador

This wonderful early childhood book keeps the young reader’s attention as the love develops between a puppy and his Hu-Mom. The descriptive and fun story flows well, and is accompanied by colourful illustrations, providing many opportunities for teachable moments. The catchy rhyming words lead to interactive conversations, and you will feel like you KNOW Zeffy when you reach the end…And then you will want to start again! Marg MacDonald, Recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education (2021)

Zig Zag Zeffy is a delightful book about an energetic, adorable puppy. The story captures your heart as you learn about his adoption into a loving home. The colorful illustrations help you to see and feel the emotions as the story unfolds. From leaving his siblings to adjusting to his new owner and learning as he goes. He makes mistakes but feels the love as he grows. Zig Zag Zeffy will make you smile.

This book has an easy read format with only a couple of sentences per page. It has a rhyming pattern that will help the children figure out the words. Its energy level will make it a great read aloud. Zig Zag Zeffy will be a great addition to any early elementary classroom library or home library. Betty Isaac, MASP, BEd, BSC

Bold art work, rhyming patterns and a cute pup make this book ideal for sharing with younger children. Snuggled close by an adult at daily book sharing time it is a great way to learn what a possible family pet would need to be happy in their new home. It mirrors what young children need . . . time and love. Penny Moxon, Retired Elementary Teacher