Wendy Lyons Sunshine—Tender Paws: How Science-Based Parenting Can Transform Our Relationship with Dogs

TENDER PAWS:
HOW SCIENCE-BASED PARENTING
CAN TRANSFORM OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH DOGS
Wendy Lyons Sunshine
Health Communications, Inc., May 28, 2024
Paperback, $16.95, eBook, $12.99, audiobook, $19.59
Paperback ISBN-13: 978-0757324956
eBook ASIN: ‎B0CL59WY2Y
Audiobook ASIN: B0CSZBFGB6

Sunshine reports:

After a parenting book helped me rescue my relationship with a difficult shelter puppy, I went on a journey to see if there was a scientific basis for my experience. The deeper I looked, the more evidence I found that science-based parenting principles and techniques that benefit at-risk kids also can benefit dogs.

I previously collaborated on two books. This was my first solo book project, and it took years to come to fruition. I rewrote the proposal several times and had it reviewed by industry experts. Even though I received interest from agents, my platform was too small.

I pitched a related blog to PsychologyToday.com, and writing it allowed me to dig deeper into the subject matter. My goal was traditional publication.

When agents still didn’t bite, I opted to submit directly to smaller publishers that didn’t require an agent. In short order, I found a wonderful partner. My publisher, Health Communications, Inc., pulled me out of the slush pile and offered me a contract within days of submission. I nearly missed seeing HCI’s offer letter, as it landed in my spam folder!

The advance was modest, but I am well satisfied with my marvelous editor and a professional operation combining the benefits of a smaller imprint with the reach of a big distributor (Simon and Schuster). HCI also sold audio rights to Recorded Books. I auditioned to narrate my book, got the gig, and was paid extra for that. This was my first professional experience working in a sound studio as “voice talent.”

During the writing process, I interviewed dozens of dog professionals and enthusiasts via Zoom, including some internationally, and I gathered a cross-section of fascinating and heart-tugging stories. I also went down myriad research rabbit holes. Organizing my own personal narrative, as-told-to stories, case studies, and background from hundreds of citations was a bit daunting. Fortunately, Word’s navigation pane allows drag-and-drop, and Zotero citation manager made the iterative process manageable.

I suggest authors consider in advance whom they might approach for blurbs and jump on appropriate opportunities. For me, getting an endorsement from Dr. Temple Grandin was a huge shot in the arm.

Contact info:

• Wendy Lyons Sunshine, wendy@polishedwriting.comhttps://www.wendylsunshine.com/
• Book: Tender Paws: How Science-Based Parenting Can Transform Our Relationship with Dogs, https://www.wendylsunshine.com/books/
• Publicist: Lindsey Triebel Mach, Lindsey.Triebel@hcibooks.com
• Sales: Lori Golden 800 851-9100 x9228 lori.golden@hcibooks.com ](mailto:laurie@defliterary.com)

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Banner image adapted from original photo by Wendy Lyons Sunshine.

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