Fur-Ever Friends
"I wrote this book for children, but it is just as much for grown‑ups. My goal was to make the reader smile, perhaps tug a few heartstrings— and show what rescue and adoption looks like, and what it means. Rescue dogs have a way of teaching all of us no matter our age, about hope and second chances. Dogs don't just find homes—they help us find the best parts of ourselves. Anyone who’s ever loved a rescue knows the truth—the dogs are usually the ones rescuing us.”
Joellyn Dahlin
(Murphy's Person and Co-Author)
Aww‑Paws is the cozy corner of the Fur-Ever Friends world where tail‑wagging moments and reader smiles all come together. It's the spot where we want to shine a brighter light on rescue and adoption. It’s the spot where Murphy and Georgia proudly display the love they’ve inspired—
one giggle, gasp, and “aww!” at a time.
"I wrote this book for children, but it is just as much for grown‑ups. My goal was to make the reader smile, perhaps tug a few heartstrings, and show what rescue and adoption looks like, and what it means. That's a message kids understand—and adults remember gratefully. Rescue dogs have a way of teaching all of us—no matter our age—about hope and second chances. Dogs don't just find homes—they help us find the best parts of ourselves. Anyone who’s ever loved a rescue knows the truth—the dogs are usually the ones rescuing us.”
“If our book made you smile, sniffle, or hug your dog a little tighter, Murphy and Georgia would love to hear from you! We are not set up for on-line reviews, so send us an email with your comments to help this little book keep spreading big-hearted magic. We would paw-sitively be pleased to share your thoughts about our book!”
"As Flapjack’s dog mom, I’m accustomed to my dearest friend appreciating and wanting to pass on tales of loyalty and compassion, especially when it involves following one’s heart and love conquering all.
Whereas Flapjack was a pup unaware of the sting of being bullied, or the sadness of losing a loved one, all parties in Fur-Ever Friends were individually tested and overcame obstacles to find security and some measure of happiness. Murphy, Georgia, and their humans understood each other, recognizing the lessons each could teach, when divine forces brought them together. The end result is a perfect example of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts and, in unison, finding unexpected joy."
Rhonda Hook
Rescue Dog Mom
The Inspiration behind "Pancake & Flapjack"
Clearwater FL
“I have this book on the shelf at the office and when it feels like it’s too much, I take the book down and I know why we all do what we do. Every day we have to keep going because we have many Murphys and Georgias.
Thank you for such a beautiful book, you have touched so many hearts. I read it a couple of times a week just to keep my mind moving forward."
Victoria Timreck, Founder/CEO
Sandi Paws Rescue
"This children's book will warm everyone's heart, young and old alike.
It is a beautiful story about the resilience of dogs when they are given all the love they deserve!"
Linda Mussell
Rescue Dog Mom
Fond du Lac WI
"My family absolutely loved Fur-Ever Friends!
The story is beautiful, the illustrations are stunning, and the surprise Mystery Trip that came with our book made the whole experience unforgettable. Our two boys (8 and 6) had so much fun guessing where the pups were headed, and they were over the moon when the book finally arrived. What a fun, interactive way to get kids excited about reading!
This book is full of heart, hope, and the kind of magic that sticks with you. Highly recommend for families, young readers, and anyone who loves rescue pups."
Kyra C.
Oshkosh WI
"A charming and touching book.
A great story of enduring pain to find love and acceptance.
Love the illustrations!"
Sue S.
Fond du Lac WI
“Three years ago I fostered Murphy. I remember him being so, so tall! He was loving and uncertain. He went to the best mom, who authored this beautiful book about him and his friend Georgia (another rescue). THIS is why fostering matters. This book will hold a special place on my shelf!
Animal rescue is essential.
Without rescuers, adopters, and foster families, our friends like Murphy and Georgia would not be in loving and safe furever homes. You can make a life-changing difference by choosing to foster an animal in need. We need animals, and they need us!"
Rhiannon D.
Murphy's Foster Mom
Dog Mom & Rescue Advocate
Fond du Lac WI
"Friendships are so important in life. From the time you are 2 until you are 102, friendships teach you many things. In Fur-Ever Friends, two very different dogs—each with their own struggles—are uprooted from the only worlds they are familiar with and are taken to new lives with new experiences. They discover love. They discover that change can be really good!!! A new way of life brings happiness if you have love—when love is part of life, there is always joy to be found.
There will be tears. Happy tears. Hard times, friendship, hope, uncertainty, security, and so much love are within the pages of this book. The illustrations perfectly capture the moods. You will love it. Your child will love it. And they will ask you to read it again!!! My children are grown and I’ve read it three times already. Enjoy!!!"
Penny Jean Koch
Rescue Dog Mom
Rescue Advocate
Fond du Lac WI
“Fur-Ever Friends is a heartwarming tale of friendship, second chances,
and finding true love. Full of amazing artwork, kids of all ages will enjoy following Murphy and all of his floof as he finds his furever home
and his furever friend.
If you love dogs, you will love this book!"
Elizabeth J.
Dog Mom to Murphy's Pal, Archie
Sherwood WI
"A dear friend, Joellyn Dahlin, wrote and published a beautiful book, Fur-Ever Friends, and I feel so lucky to have received a copy—hand delivered and thoughtfully packaged. That alone meant so much, but the story inside… it’s something truly special.
The book is narrated by Joellyn’s own rescue pup, Murphy! The story follows the sweet friendship of Murphy and Georgia - a rescue pup adopted by Joellyn’s dear sister, Peggy. Knowing the deeper meaning behind the story—the love they both had for their previous pups who have since passed—makes the story even more powerful. You can feel that love and loss woven into every page, honoring Gucci and Bella in a beautiful way.
The artwork is absolutely stunning, and the message is one that hit me right in the heart. It is a gentle, emotional reminder of how special rescue animals are and why adopting them matters so much.
I laughed, I teared up, and I finished it feeling incredibly grateful—for friendship, for the memories our pets give us, and for people who turn their love into something so meaningful for others to experience.
This is a story for all ages! So cuddle up with your furry friend(s) & give it a read! I am so proud of you, Joellyn. This book is truly a gift."
Bailey Paul
Dog Mom
Hollandtown WI
“This is a WONDERFUL story. Wow!
It made me smile,
it made me shed a few tears,
and it made me feel very hopeful.
Murphy and Georgia are living
the safe and happy life
they deserve!"
Beth H.
Dog Mom to Murphy's Girlfriend, Daisy
Sherwood WI
“Fur-Ever Friends is simply beautiful. With just enough details, the reader is carried through time as Murphy and Georgia traverse the bumps on their journeys.
The artful writing evokes a perfect balance of tears and smiles and hope. (I may have been a wee bit of a mess after reading the story, but it was the kind of mess that is quiet, peaceful and good and it fills your heart.)"
Cheryl F.
Fond du Lac WI
"The story of Murphy and Georgia made me want to hug somebody or some-dog! As Fur-Ever Friends speaks, my heart smiles, and I recall the love I had for Sam (Sam-er-ram-er-ding-dong), Tucker (T-Man) and Abe (Abraham), our beloved dogs who now wait for us over the rainbow.
Joellyn, thank you for your style, your lessons, your creativity, and for making my eyes shiny in a good way!"
Sue Dahlin
Dog Mom
Savage MN
“This is such a sweet, heartwarming story about two rescue dogs who find friendship and their forever homes. I especially love that it's written from the dog's perspective— it adds a unique and charming voice that makes the story even more special.
My two-year-old grandson loves looking through the book and can easily recognize each dog, which says a lot about how thoughtfully it is put together.
What truly sets this book apart, is the personal touch from the author; she included a personalized letter written "from Murphy" to my grandson, which meant so much. You can feel the love and care in every detail.
A beautiful story about love, friendship, and second chances— highly recommend."
Brenda S.
Fond du Lac WI
“This book is truly something special! As someone who has rescue multiple cats, I truly appreciate what Joellyn has accomplished in sharing with others what a rewarding experience it can be — not just to the animals who have been rescued, but also to humans who may not have known they needed
to be rescued."
Merry A.
Rescue Cat Mom
Fond du Lac WI