Freeport author brings beloved pet back to life in children’s book
FREEPORT — On the day Teri Runte Peacock adopted her dog from a local shelter, she knew she brought home something special.
She named the mixed-breed dog Oliver, and for 11 years he was at her side as she traveled for work as a caricature artist.
Peacock is a Freeport native, who now lives near Pekin with her husband Paul.
When Oliver died in 2019, Peacock found herself lost without her faithful “buddy” and threw herself into her work, continuing to travel to multiple states working festivals and fairs with her business, Out of the Ordinary Art.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, Peacock found her livelihood in jeopardy. Festivals and fairs were canceled. Then, in 2021, an author approached her to illustrate a children’s book.
More: ‘The Laramie Project’ brings sensitivity to Winneshiek stage
Peacock threw herself into the challenge, gaining confidence that she, too, could write a children's book do her own illustrations. She thought of her beloved dog, Oliver, and began brainstorming.
“I wrote the manuscript to my book early in 2021. Then I began to draw, and it all came together,“ Peacock said. “I signed a contract with Xulon Publishing in February 2021 to do the book. I began to get excited. I knew what I wanted to do for the book, to think about bringing Oliver to life through my words and my drawings.”
Peacock said the book is her tribute to her dog. The story is about a day Oliver swam with another dog. She titled the book “Oliver's Swimming Lesson.”
In the book, Oliver is a bouncy, fun-loving dog who loves water and swimming. Even good swimmers have something to learn about the water. The story shares Oliver's experience learning an important lesson.
“I look at the book, and I get choked up,” Peacock said. “It has so many illustrations that bring Oliver back to life. He was a special dog, a good companion, and he was full of life.”
Peacock’s friend, Emily Giasson of Monroe, Wisconsin has been able to read the book.
“I love this story," Giasson said. "I knew Oliver and his relationship with Teri, and as I read the story I smiled. It is like Oliver is still here. The artwork has such detail, and I love the lesson of the story. I am hoping there will be a series.”
Peacock said she is ready to continue the story of Oliver with a series of future books.
“I will continue with Oliver’s adventures,” Peacock said. “Being able to write, illustrate and complete this book has become a neat dream realized.“
The book is available on Amazon and Barns and Noble.
Peacock will have a book signing from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 29 at Higher Grounds coffee shop in Freeport.
Jane Lethlean is a freelance correspondent.
This article originally appeared on Journal Standard: Freeport author brings beloved pet back to life in children’s book
