Corgis Conquer Cancer

A gentle, uplifting picture book about love, courage, and a very helpful corgi.

When Mom gets sick, Stella the Corgi knows just what to do. With a big heart and steady presence, Stella brings wags, wiggles, and quiet comfort through doctor visits, hard days, and small victories. Inspired by a true story, Corgis Conquer Cancer shows how honesty, kindness, and the simple companionship of a beloved pet can make scary things feel smaller.

• Ages 4–8: a warm read-aloud for families and an encouraging choice for early readers


• Hopeful & honest: talks about illness with warmth, clarity, and care


• Dog-loving fun: cheerful, comforting illustrations and a big-hearted corgi heroine


• Great for home or classroom: includes a brief note to readers and bonus activity/coloring pages

Perfect for families, teachers, counselors, and dog lovers seeking a comforting story about courage, kindness, and the healing power of companionship.

Kristi lives in Bend, Oregon, and is a cancer survivor and fighter. She was first diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in December 2021. The cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and bones. At that time, she was 37 years old and a single mother to a nine-year-old boy, so the only path forward for her was to fight. Although her breast cancer was under control after 12 rounds of chemotherapy, in the fall of 2022, she was then diagnosed with brain cancer. Kristi underwent radiation to target those tumors and continues infusions to this day, along with countless medications to keep the cancer at bay.Her cancer journey has been life-altering, not only for herself but for her friends and family. Most affected by her diagnosis was, and still is, her son. Having to explain fatigue and possible hair loss to her child was a hurdle so large that, if she had a book like Corgis Conquer Cancer, it might have alleviated some of the worry and heartache.Kristi and her son enjoy walking their Corgi, Stella, together, paddleboarding the beautiful lakes and rivers of Central Oregon, and watching movies, either at home or in the theater.

Suzanne Pell is a children's book illustrator and designer known for bringing characters to life with bright colors, cozy scenes, and whimsical charm. With decades of experience in illustration, design, printing, and publishing, she helps authors turn ideas into beautifully finished books. Her portfolio includes more than 16 published titles, including Tina's Journey, Ready Freddie: Isn't Ready, Huebert Shares His Feelings, Ty the Vegan Tiger, Talk to Mr. Ted, and Fiver. Her work is known for its warmth, personality, and ability to make young readers (and their parents) smile. She can be contacted at sue@booksbysue.com.