More than a Stray Children’s Book Launches in Detroit with Special Community Events
Friends of Detroit Animal Care and Control (FoDACC) is proud to announce the release of More than a Stray, a heartfelt children’s book that brings the stories of Detroit’s shelter dogs to life.
The book will be officially launched on October 4 with two separate community events celebrating compassion, creativity, and the bond between people and animals.
Written by Sue Valentine, More than a Stray tells the story of a once-forgotten dog’s journey from fear to hope to the joy of finding a forever home, told through the dog’s own eyes. The story is paired with soulful photographs taken by Metro Detroit youth during a summer program with Ruff Life Photography and the Detroit Public Library. The children spent time with dogs at Detroit Animal Care and Control, capturing their beauty, spirit, and resilience. Each photo proves what volunteers and shelter staff work to show every day: that these dogs are not just strays; they are lovable, hopeful companions deserving of a second chance.
Book Release Party – October 4
The public is invited to celebrate the release of More than a Stray at a Book Release Party on Saturday, October 4, from 3–5 pm at Detroit Animal Care and Control. The event will feature:
A live reading by author Sue Valentine
Book signing and “pawtographs”
The opportunity to purchase copies of the book
Author Reading & Book Signing at Purrfiction – October 12
A second community event will take place at Purrfiction on Sunday, October 12, from 1–3 pm. Attendees will enjoy a live reading and book signing with author Sue Valentine, along with the chance to meet adoptable dogs from Detroit Animal Care and Control.
Online Orders
Copies of More than a Stray are available for pre-order at Friends of DACC’s website, www.friendsofdacc.org. Pre-ordered copies will begin shipping on October 4. All proceeds from More than a Stray will be used to support animals in the shelter and in the city of Detroit.
Quotes
“Writing More than a Stray has been one of the most meaningful projects of my life,” said Sue Valentine, author. “Pairing my words with the powerful photographs taken by Detroit’s youth makes this story all the more real and touching. The dogs at Detroit Animal Care and Control have so much love to give, and this book acts as their voice.”
“This book is proof of what we see every day,” said Sarah Krizan, Community Outreach Director with Friends of DACC. “The dogs at Detroit Animal Care and Control aren’t just strays — they are family waiting to be found. We are thrilled to partner with local youth to showcase their spirit and to share this project with the community.”
About Friends of Detroit Animal Care and Control
Friends of Detroit Animal Care and Control (FoDACC) is the official nonprofit partner of Detroit Animal Care and Control. FoDACC supports the city shelter by providing resources, fundraising, and community engagement to improve the lives of Detroit’s homeless and at-risk animals. Through advocacy, education, and direct assistance, FoDACC works to increase adoptions, reduce shelter overcrowding, and highlight the loving, adoptable pets who come through Detroit Animal Care and Control every day.
