r/books • AMA Author • Nov 21 '19

ama 12pm I am a dog lover, children's book author and Mom. My name is Jill Weisfeld and I have a new book, Riley the Retriever Wants a New Job, which is based on my own English Cream Retriever Riley who is a certified Therapy Dog. Ask Me Anything!

I'm Jill Weisfeld and I'm a dog lover, children's book author and founder/CEO of my own publishing company, Peek-a-Bear Press. My new book Riley the Retriever Wants a New Job is a wonderful story based on my own dog Riley, a female English Cream Retriever who I trained, in conjunction with the Good Dog Foundation, to become a certified therapy dog. This month, 100% of the book proceeds are being donated to Guiding Eyes for the Blind and other dog charities. This book holds a special place in my heart because I wrote with my mother, Deborah Mangel, who passed away before the book was published. It was important to both of us to write a book that was both educational and enjoyable to teach children about the many jobs a dog can have. My own dog Riley visits schools, libraries and nursing homes to provide happiness and comfort to members of the community. You can learn more at http://peek-a-bear.com/ The book is available for purchase on Amazon or via my website. Ask Me Anything!

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17 Upvotes

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u/AlexanderMason12 Nov 21 '19

What's your favorite part of writing?

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u/TheScribe86 Nov 21 '19

Aside from writing itself, what's your advice to starting writers on how to get published

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u/AlexanderMason12 Nov 21 '19

What inspiration would you give for aspiring writers?

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u/jillweisfeld Nov 21 '19

I would like to quote Nike’s slogan and tell inspiring writers to “Just Do It.” Set aside a time everyday and start writing. When you’re first draft is complete share it with friends and family to get their input.

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u/jennymac4girlz Nov 21 '19

What inspired you to train Riley to become a therapy dog? And did you have any dogs growing up?

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u/Justcuz420 Nov 21 '19

So cool that Riley helps others! I get that kids like to read to therapy dogs at libraries... What does she do when visiting nursing homes?

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u/Justcuz420 Nov 21 '19

I'm sorry to hear that you lost your Mother. Is she the one who inspired you to write children's books? Did she help with your first book?

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u/Lisapaint Nov 21 '19

Hi Jill, Do you have any plans for another book? If so, can you talk about it? Will it be about Riley?

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u/ThisistheEnd22 Nov 21 '19

What is the process for creating your own publishing company? Is Peek A Bear Press just for your books or would you consider accepting pitches to publish other authors?

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u/[deleted] Nov 21 '19

I've written a book, but can't seem to obtain an agent. I've been offered contributory contracts twice now. Are those hybrid publishers safe? I'm currently considering Austin Macaulay Publishers. Just seems like once you get your name out there, it's all easier...is that true? Can't afford to pay, is it worth starting a go fund me and trying to get with them anyway?

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