About the Author

Linda Toussaint Verville

They say, "write what you know." Well, that is just what I did. I wish I could say writing a book was a life long goal. But frankly, not in my wildest dreams did I ever think I could write a book, much less self-publish it. You will see from my history, nothing prepared me to become a children's book author. Although, looking back through my life experiences, I was always drawn to professions that fulfilled my strong desire to improve the world in some way. Certainly, I hope FOR PETE'S SAKE makes a powerful impact.

I grew up in Biddeford, Maine as an only child with one dog who kept me company for 16 years. I still remember the first day I met her, as well as, the last day I said good bye. I contribute my love of animals to all the great memories in between. After graduating from high school I studied retail merchandising in Boston, Massachusetts for one year. During that year I realized I wanted to become a business teacher. I transferred to Plymouth State College in Plymouth, New Hampshire.

Upon graduating from PSC with a B.S. in Business Education and a very tight job market for business teachers, I explored a variety of positions. Job coaching developmentally delayed adults, counseling unemployment claimants, and supporting 'at risk' youth with their summer employment to name a few.

In-between jobs somewhere, I surprised my husband, Jim, with a 6 week old shepard/husky puppy. We named her Chelsea. No particular reason, we just liked the name. What a terror! It was not uncommon to find her chewing couch cushions, destroying the garage, jumping through widow screens, even sitting on the neighbor's couch. Sometime after 2 years she suddenly settled down and became a role model dog. That is when we decided to adopt Pete.

We (OK, I) could not resist inquiring about the poor blind deaf puppy reported as found wandering the streets of Biddeford by the Journal Tribune. (Pete's article at the Kennebunk Animal Shelter) Shortly after, we were deemed the most suitable home interested in taking him. The facts that we were childless, were homeowners, and we had another dog were desirable factors for taking on this special needs puppy. The West Kennebunk Animal Welfare Society www.animalwelfaresociety.org gave us a lot of support. Free training, free neutering, and the guilt free option to bring him back if he was too much to handle. He was a handful, but Chelsea was a great help and we were already emotionally attached so we stayed committed to the little guy. (To read the follow-up go to: Pete Finds a Ray of Hope.)

Finally, I was offered a high school teacher's aid position that ultimately developed into an official teaching position. After 5 years, I chose to leave so I could be home with my children. Currently, I live in Saco, Maine with my husband, three children, and two dogs. Life is very interesting with this ratio. Especially with Pete's disabilities. Hence, the creation of For Pete's Sake! People ask me how I came up with the story and I can honestly say I did not have to come up with anything. I just chronologically organized the major events and embellished the facts a little to make it child friendly. My inspiration came from watching Pete and Chelsea bond over the years and witnessing the same marveled reaction people gave when "Pete and Chelsea stories" were told. To say living with Pete has been a challenge would be an understatement. Imagine living with a fifty-pound dog who never outgrew the puppy stage. But the love and laughter he has given us over the 8 years far outweighs the destruction and sleepless nights. I truly believe he was put on this earth to do something important. I am just glad I figured it out.

I don't know what I want to be when I grow up, but for now, sharing Pete and Chelsea's message allows me to combine my three passions - children, animals, and teaching. I could not have written a better job description myself.

Thank you Pete and Chelsea!