Northbounders: 2,186 Miles of Friendship

It’s a big world out there and Copper, the Golden Retriever, finds himself navigating it alone. Hungry, lonely, and afraid, with a gunshot wound in his belly, Copper longs for love and a family to call his own. He’s got a big heart, a love for people, and an even bigger love for adventure. Follow Copper as he searches for a forever home, finds a special friend, and stumbles upon the greatest experience of his life: hiking the 2,186-mile-long Appalachian Trail. Will he survive his most brutal, exciting, and intense adventure challenged by extreme weather, wild animals, and disease? Can he overcome his fears to prove his loyalty to the family that saved his life?

Dr. Karen Lord Rutter is a retired teacher and administrator with over 30 years in education whose work with students ranged from preschool through high school. Dr. Rutter has a passion for travel, children, and learning. This book was inspired when her son, David, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail with the family dog, Copper. Her love of the Appalachian Trail was born after David invited her to hike a few short sections of the A.T. with him. Because of her passion for children and love of reading, she embarked upon her first foray into the world of writing for children. As an educator, it was important that she incorporate history, geography, enriched vocabulary, science, and math into Copper's story. Dr. Rutter is a lifelong resident of Georgia, where the Appalachian Trail begins. She and her husband, Mike, have two adult children: David and Mikella who inspire her every day. This book is a labor of love for a pet who left the family much too soon.