Walks With Kona

Sometimes the friend who helps you find your way has four paws, a golden coat, and absolutely no idea how much you need him.

When Chanelle begins walking a Golden Retriever named Kona in New York City, she thinks she knows what the arrangement is: she takes care of Kona. But through years of walks, adventures, unexpected encounters, and some of the hardest moments in her own life, she begins to discover that Kona may be taking care of her, too.

Then the world changes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, New York City grows strangely quiet, and Kona goes away. At a time when Chanelle could use her four-legged friend the most, their walks together suddenly stop.

But this is not a story about losing Kona.

Because one day, Kona comes back.

Friendly, curious, and seemingly delighted by everyone he meets, Kona turns his daily walks into adventures. Before long, he becomes a familiar face around Columbus Circle, the unofficial "mayor" of the neighborhood-bringing smiles, laughter, and moments of connection to the people around him.

But while his dog walker believes she is simply taking care of Kona, something unexpected is happening: Kona is taking care of her, too.

Inspired by the real-life adventures of Kona and his longtime dog walker, Chanelle Futrell, Walks With Kona is a beautifully illustrated picture book about friendship, resilience, community, and the remarkable ability of animals to help us through difficult times.

Featuring hand-painted illustrations by Josh Lawson, Walks With Kona follows an unforgettable friendship through a changing New York City and reminds us that even after difficult times, joy has a way of finding its way back.

Created for children ages 6-9 and perfect for sharing aloud, Walks With Kona offers younger readers a warm and engaging story while giving growing readers deeper themes to discover-celebrating the animals who become part of our stories, the people who unexpectedly become part of our lives, and the small moments of connection that can change us forever.