Gidget and Galley Go Over Grief Mountain

Gidget and Galley Go Over Grief Mountain is a heartwarming children's grief book that follows two lovable dogs-Gidget, a gentle therapy wiener dog, and Galley, her energetic schnauzer best friend-as they learn to cope with the loss of their beloved Granny. Set against the serene beauty of the San Juan Islands, this comforting animal story helps young readers understand that grief is something all families face-and that no one has to go through it alone.

When Granny passes away, Gidget and Galley are overwhelmed by sadness, anger, and confusion. To help them heal, their owners, Walker and Daniela, guide them on a symbolic hike up Grief Mountain, where seven trailheads represent the emotional challenges of loss-denial, anger, searching, sadness, acceptance, new patterns, and moving forward. Along the trail, the dogs learn practical coping tools: making art, talking about their feelings, deep breathing, journaling, sticking to routines, embracing new traditions, and cherishing good memories.

This gentle, faith-inspired children's story offers emotional resilience for children and families while providing clear, relatable metaphors for understanding grief. Through Gidget and Galley's journey, young readers discover that healing doesn't mean forgetting-rather, it means finding new ways to love, remember, and keep moving forward.

Perfect for families, counselors, teachers, and anyone supporting a child through loss, Gidget and Galley Go Over Grief Mountain is a comforting read-aloud for grieving kids, filled with warmth, hope, and tools that readers can carry with them long after the last page.

Mary Cranston is a children's author and mental health professional whose work sits at the living crossroads of whimsy and wellness. With a deep belief that stories can be both magical and meaningful, Mary Cranston has dedicated her career to creating books and tools that help people navigate life with courage, compassion, and hope. Her blend of imaginative storytelling and practical mental health tips, tools, and training has made her voice uniquely positioned to engage with young readers while also equipping them with skills they can use in the real world.As a mental health professional, Mary specializes in translating complex emotional concepts into simple, accessible, and creative strategies that help people move forward with confidence. Whether working with children, families, or individuals seeking growth, Mary will focus on offering clear grounded techniques that transform emotional challenges into opportunities for learning. Grief Mountain grew from a desire to help young readers face unfamiliar or anxiety producing experiences with bravery and courage. Through the lovable characters Gidget and Galley, Mary explores themes of self acceptance, understanding grief, big feelings, and inner strength. The story invites children to approach the unknown with a gentle spirit toward curiosity and growth.Outside of mental health work, Mary is continually inspired by the complexity of mental health and the desire to make it gentle, exploratory and doable through storytelling. These small sparks often grow into the whimsical worlds created on the page.Mary's books, workshops, private practice, and international speaking remain committed to helping children and adults alike discover resilience, connection, and a sense of empowerment in every chapter of their life. Mary lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, and weiner dog, Gidget.

Based in the countryside of Somerset, England, Tabitha Noakes is an illustrator known for her playful, colourful artwork inspired by the joyful world of dogs. As a mum of three energetic children and one equally enthusiastic dog, her daily life is full of movement, laughter, and muddy footprints, all of which influence the warmth and personality in her illustrations.Her love for drawing began in childhood and over time, her focus naturally gravitated toward dogs, whose expressions, quirks, and boundless charm offered endless creative possibilities. Today, her work is recognisable for its bold colours, quirky sense of humour, and sense of fun. Working from her cosy home studio, often with her dog snoring at her feet, she balances her creative practice with the vibrant whirlwind of family life. Her children's imagination and curiosity inspire her daily, reminding her to approach each project with playfulness and joy.Her illustrations appear in prints, stationery, home décor, and children's storytelling, bringing a burst of colour and character into homes of dog lovers everywhere. Rooted in Somerset's charm and shaped by the beautiful chaos of motherhood, Tabitha creates artwork that aims to spark smiles, brighten days, and honour the spirit of dogs.

Amanda Higbee is primarily a graphic designer with a repertoire of skills and proficiencies in digital and creative areas including (but not limited to): Digital marketing, communications, web design, and editing. Amanda thrives in environments that promote creative expression and she is always willing to learn and try new things. Recently acting as an author's agent, she has learned valuable communication, writing, and formatting skills in seeing this children's book through to the end from the first draft all the way to print.Amanda loves to design, create, and make things look neat, professional, and presentable. Being very detail-oriented, she loves to stay planned, prepared, organized, and consistent while continuing to explore new ideas. Some of Amanda's other hobbies include crocheting, baking, crafting, and spending quality time with family and friends. Amanda grew up and lived most of her life on the west coast in Washington State and now currently resides in New Jersey with her husband, daughter, and has baby girl #2 on the way.