For a child who struggles with reading, opening a book aloud can feel intimidating. But sitting beside a patient, loving dog who never corrects, rushes, or judges them can transform reading into something entirely different.
Children’s author John O’Reilly believes in the remarkable connection that can develop when children read to dogs. Inspired by years of reading books and creating bedtime stories for his own children, John brings his love of storytelling to books designed to encourage young readers, strengthen self-confidence, and celebrate the joy of sharing stories aloud.
Through Good Night Cookies, John hopes to shine a light on reading therapy dog programs and the important role they can play in helping children become more comfortable and confident readers. His work brings together children's literature, literacy, and the unconditional companionship of animals to create a message that families, educators, and young readers can appreciate.
Visitors to Scottsdale Book Festival 2027 will have the opportunity to meet John, discover Good Night Cookies, and learn more about his support for reading therapy dog programs across the country.
About John O’Reilly
John O’Reilly loves writing children’s books and, most of all, expressing the stories aloud. After all, he started with his own children by either reading a book to them or, even better, making up bedtime stories with enchanting characters. With
Good Night Cookies, he hopes to inspire children to develop self-confidence and a sense of strength by simply reading to a furry audience that is very loving and appreciative.
O’Reilly’s work is designed to spotlight and support reading therapy dog programs across the country. The author believes, “there is something incredibly special that happens when dogs and children who struggle with reading come together!”
Visit John O’Reilly at Scottsdale Book Festival 2027
Families, educators, librarians, literacy advocates, and young readers are encouraged to meet John O’Reilly during Scottsdale Book Festival 2027. Stop by to discover
Good Night Cookies, learn more about the connection between children and reading therapy dogs, and meet an author whose work celebrates the confidence, encouragement, and joy that can grow when a child shares a story with a furry friend.
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