Michael Sampson, PhD, is an author and Professor of Literacy at St. John's University in New York City. He is known for his collaborations with Bill Martin Jr on picture books like Rainbow Bear and Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3, as well as his college textbook, Pathways to Literacy: Process Transactions. A Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Sampson is published widely in academic journals and newspaper editorials and is the coauthor with Olena Kharchenko of The Story of Ukraine: An Anthem of Glory and Freedom. This is Sampson's third dog story and follows his books Caddie the Golf Dog and Puppy Dog, Puppy Dog, Do You Want to Play? An animal lover, Sampson is happy that all profits from this book go to animal shelters and will help save the lives of homeless cats and dogs.
After over fifteen years of working in fashion, Lauren Phelps launched a career as a fine artist. Her artwork is deeply influenced by her extensive experience in the fashion industry and her Southern roots. She began creating art as a child alongside her late mother and credits the birth of her sons with inspiring her renewed creativity and career rebirth.
Today, Phelps' work focuses on the bond of parent and child and preserving the magic of childhood. She primarily works in oils, charcoals, and pastels, with almost all of her pieces commissioned alongside a few limited studio releases. First and foremost, she sees her career as a storyteller. She is currently illustrating a book for bestselling author Michael Sampson, which will be released in the spring of 2026. Her own highly anticipated first picture book as author and illustrator will launch in 2027.
Phelps lives and works in Gramercy Park, Manhattan, New York City. Her private studio is located at the historic National Arts Club.