The Perfectly Imperfect Puppies Series
Written by Linda Lacivita Krieger and Illustrated by Chris Rosati Yoos
Lilly and Livingston Are Perfectly Imperfect
Download your free book resources.
Backstory
In 2012, my precious Shih Tzu, Polo, passed away. I was heartbroken, so my sister made it her mission to help me find another puppy to love. My husband didn’t want another dog, but he knew how important this was to me as I was undergoing cancer treatment. Fortunately, my sister found a breeder who was selling two Shih Tzus, so my husband and I planned to adopt one.
The nine-month-old puppies were actually their family pets. They had been bred to enter competitions, but neither one of them was perfect enough to become a show dog. Instead of adopting one puppy, we ended up adopting two! We renamed them Lillabel and Livingston.
But when we brought them to our veterinarian a couple of days later, the veterinarian had several concerns and suggested that we return them. Although we had only had them a few days, I was already in love with them. They became our “Perfectly Imperfect Puppies!”
In this story, Izzy Lively is an only child with a big heart–and an even bigger wish for a puppy. Her father reluctantly agrees to adopt two imperfect puppies. So Izzy and her friends, who each face their own challenges, team up to prove that being “imperfect” doesn’t mean unlovable. They melt Dad’s heart in the process. It’s a message of empathy, resilience, bonding, and unconditional love.
Lilly and Livingston Challenge Grammy
Download your free book resources.
Backstory
During a severe winter snowstorm, several friends and I were taking the contents of my aunt’s apartment to my house. The door to our house was open for quite a long time while we were emptying the truck. Because of that, I was concerned that my puppies, Lilly and Livingston, might slip out of the house unnoticed. When I called their names, Lilly came toward me, but I couldn’t find Livingston anywhere on my first floor. Since both dogs never climbed the steps to the second floor, I feared that he was gone.
We ran outside shouting Livingston’s name. The snow was blowing so hard that it was difficult to see if there were any dog tracks. The temperature was well below zero, so after an hour of searching, we returned to the house for a couple of minutes to regroup. I was worried sick that Livingston had already frozen to death. When I got back inside, I heard whimpering, which sounded as if it might be coming from the second floor. I ran up the stairs to see that Livingston’s head was stuck between the spindles in the railing!
In the story, Lilly and Livingston stay at Grammy’s house while their human parents are on vacation. The pups are planning on having fun while Grammy, a former principal, is planning to teach them good behavior. Livingston, a mischievous pup, rebels and runs away during a snowstorm–sparking panic, heartache, and a surprising reunion. This cozy winter tale gently explores forgiveness, second chances, and the unshakable bond between pets and family.
Lilly and Livingston Play Hide and Squeak
Download your free book resources.
Backstory
Many dogs have issues with fireworks, thunder and lightning, and my Shih Tzus are no exception. We live in Ohio, so we experience many storms. My pups are afraid to “go potty” outside under those conditions. Under those situations, I try to provide distractions by playing music or turning on the television with the volume turned up.
The story begins with preparations for Izzy’s sixth birthday. Her playful pups are ready to show off their tricks. But a storm arises, the party turns into chaos– sending the kids and puppies scattering inside and out. Suddenly, the puppies are missing! With teamwork and a little imagination, the children begin searching. The puppies now think this is their favorite game of Hide and Squeak, and the chase has turned from fear to fun. This is a spirited celebration of friendship, teamwork, problem-solving, and overcoming fears.
Lilly and Livingston Overcome Daycare Jitters
Download your free book resources.
Activities | Discussion Questions
Backstory
Lilly and Livingston, our Shih Tzus, were adopted into our family in 2013. Our furry family has continued to grow over the years. My older son and his wife have two rescue dogs, Hasell and Reesey. My younger son has Baxter, a Schnauzer, along with my niece and nephew, who brought Enzo, a Golden Doodle puppy, into our lives. When all of them brought their dogs into our home for the holidays, Lilly and Livingston were in a panic. Plus, I truly believe my dogs felt they were people, not puppies!
When Lilly and Livingston start Doggy Daycare, they’re nervous around unfamiliar dogs. But with Mom's gentle guidance, they discover how kindness and an open heart can turn strangers into friends. This is a joyful lesson in empathy, inclusion, and how to make everyone feel welcome.