Margrit Strohmaier loves pets. So much so, the Austria native and designer-turned-picture-book-author has delved into writing about pet ownership for the younger set. Her debut book, What to Know Before You Get Your Dog (Lion Face Press, 2021) was more than well-received…it was the recipient of the American Book Fest “Best Book” award (Children’s Picture Book: Hardcover Nonfiction) and a Finalist in the Children’s Educational category, and winner of the Indie Reader Discovery Award. Margrit followed up that success with the companion title and Lion Face Press recent release, What to Know Before You Get Your Cat.
The author will celebrate the book launch of her second children’s picture book at The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, on Wednesday, April 19th at 7:00 pm during the Saugatuck Scribes: Healing & Caregiving event, where Margrit will be interviewed by Julie Loparo, president of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates (WASA). Author Tracy Livecchi LCSW, who penned Healing Hearts and Minds: A Holistic Approach to Coping Well With Congenital Heart Disease will also be featured that evening. The discussion will be followed by book signings and a door prize drawing for a related gift basket.
The event is free; please register here.
Margrit pursued her passion for creativity and art in Manhattan — she holds degrees in both Fine Arts and Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design. Additionally, Margrit received the Ana Blanc Verna Award for Creative Thinking. Margrit was inspired to write her first picture book, What to Know Before You Get Your Dog, by her daughter's relentless campaign to have a dog. With a similar interest in raising cat ownership awareness, What to Know Before You Get Your Cat was born. Her goal is to educate children about the responsibilities of raising a pet. Both picture books include engaging watercolor illustrations by Claudia Godotti, who hails from New Zealand, and rhyme with lessons and details surrounding pet care — both the practical aspects and the joys. Young readers will learn about feeding, walking, and training their furry friends and can even download dog and cat care charts and contracts.
“With both picture books, I aimed to communicate an educational message that was twofold: pets are not toys, and they need constant care and love. From reader feedback, it seems I’ve conveyed both concepts. I’m thrilled to celebrate the release of my follow-up book at my hometown library, among supportive writing peers, family, and friends,” said Margrit Strohmaier, Westport children’s picture book author.
Margrit hopes readers ages 3-8, as well as animal enthusiasts and educators of all ages, will embrace What to Know Before You Get Your Dog and What to Know Before You Get Your Cat with unmatched enthusiasm.
“It’s my hope that all dog and cat aficionados will benefit from my books, and enjoy the rewards of pet ownership. I’m especially grateful to The Westport Library for showcasing my work,” added Margrit.
Margrit lives in Westport, Connecticut with her family and beloved dog, Scruffy. She’s available for author talks, blog/podcast interviews, and school or in-store visits. Please contact her at margritstrohmaier@gmail.com or via her author website, margritstrohmaier.com for more information. Both books will be available for purchase at Saugatuck Scribes on April 19th. Follow Margrit on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MargritStrohmaier/ and Instagram @margrit_strohmaier.