Author Heather Leughmyerhas added another book to her Kindness to Animals series—this one tackling the not-so-hidden dirty secrets of the dairy and veal industries—and does it all through the pages of a rhyming children’s book.

In the story, Courageous Conneris torn from his mother and faces two challenges: can he be brave enough to find his way back to her side, and will they, together, escape the cruel conditions they find themselves in?

Unwanted calves from the dairy industry are routinely ripped from loving mothers, their flesh turned into the meal of an unthinking or uncaring consumer.

Heather, a long time vegan activist, excels at creating rhyming children’s stories, and is using her gift to create a series advocating for Kindness to Animals. Courageous Conner is the third book in the series, which so far features Adopting Adele and Brave Benny, too. Heather plans to work her way through the alphabet, creating children’s books featuring the many animals who need a little kindness in today’s society.

Courageous Conner is perfect for ages 6 and up, and excellent for both humane education and library and family story time. The book is currently available in both paperback and kindle, and coming soon in audio.

Buy in Paperback | Buy on Kindle

Book Sample:

Little Conner was born on the 3rd day of June, to a proud mama cow, one warm afternoon. His mom gently cleaned him, as a good mother would, then he wiggled and wobbled, until finally he stood.

She gave him soft kisses on his velvety head, then faintly he mooed; Conner now needed fed. He found mama’s milk; it was pleasingly sweet. When his tummy was full, he took a nap at her feet.

But his dreams were cut short by the cries of another; someone was taking a calf from his mother! Conner stayed silent as he cowered in fear; he looked up at his mom as the human drew near…

About the Author:

Heather Leughmyer graduated from Indiana-Purdue University with a B.A. in English Writing and Linguistics. She is a dedicated vegan, animal rights activist and animal rescuer.

Writing has been a passion of hers for as long as she has advocated for animals. By telling their stories and illustrating their pain she hopes to touch a few hearts and change a few minds with her words.

Heather is the author of If Your Tears Were Human, Adopting Adele, Brave Benny, Courageous Conner, and co-editor ofRescue Smiles. She lives in Columbia City, Indiana, with her husband, daughter and several animal companions.

About the Illustrator:

Our whimsical artist, April Pedersen, is a freelancer based in Reno, Nevada. She is partial to frogs, geocaching, science fiction, video poker, and chess.

April is the illustrator of Adopting Adele, Brave Benny, Bravo’s Freedom, Happy Dog Coloring Book, andCourageous Conner.