BROKEN ARROW, Okla. –
After losing their longtime dog Dooney at the end of May, Broken Arrow author Seth Karnes found himself searching for a way to cope. That outlet came in the form of writing — inspired in part by an unexpected visitor, a small Chihuahua who would later become known as Bella.
An Unexpected Journey to Publishing
Bella’s story eventually became a published children’s book, released April 2 and now available on Amazon.
But Karnes says becoming an author was never part of the plan.
“I didn’t really know what to do with the book, and so I didn’t know where to start,” he said. “I’d never written anything like this before. It wasn’t intended to really initially be what it became.”
A Message That Resonates
What it became has resonated far beyond his expectations.
“We’ve gotten just a ton of positive feedback,” Karnes said. “People reading the book with their dogs, people reading the book crying with their dogs, people reading the book with their children.”
While written as a children’s story, the book has struck a chord with readers of all ages, especially those dealing with the loss of a pet.
“It is kind of unintentionally turning into almost like a grief tool that people are utilizing,” Karnes said.
Helping Others Heal
Readers have shared stories of buying the book after losing pets of their own — not just dogs, but cats and other companions — and finding comfort in its message.
Crystal Karnes says even the reviews have been emotional.
“Some of them were like, ‘I didn’t expect to cry while reading this children’s book, but here I am crying,’” she said. “And it’s amazing knowing it’s going to be helping so many children and adults and families throughout the world.”
The book’s reach is already expanding internationally, with readers purchasing copies across Europe and Australia.
Growing Beyond the Pages
Interest in the story — and Bella herself — has continued to grow. Just one day after signing the book contract, Bella’s first video went viral, drawing more attention to the project.
Now, the Karnes family is building on that momentum. Upcoming events will give readers a chance to connect with the story in person.
A book signing is set for May 2 at Gardner’s Used Books, followed by another signing and meet-and-greet with Bella on July 18 at Barnes & Noble near 71st and Memorial.
They’ve also added a personal touch: a custom stamp created from Bella’s paw print, which will be used at events and shared with readers.
