Some days seem to go wrong from the very beginning.
After Toby gives in to the temptation of stealing a piece of bacon, one mistake leads to another for him and Duke. A spilled oil pan in the barn, muddy paw prints through the house, hurt feelings, guilt, frustration, and finally a frightening chase deep into the woods leave the two dogs wondering if they've ruined everything.
But Duke and Toby Get In Trouble is not really a story about bad dogs.
It is a story about bad days.
Set on a quiet Shenandoah Valley farm, this emotionally rich installment in the beloved Duke & Toby series explores the complicated feelings children experience when they make mistakes and disappoint the people they love. Through gentle storytelling and cinematic illustrations, young readers learn that poor choices, accidents, impulsive decisions, and difficult emotions are all part of growing up.
More importantly, they learn that being loved does not mean being perfect.
As Toby finds himself lost and alone in the dark woods, he begins to understand how quickly small decisions can carry us far away from where we intended to be. Yet even in fear and regret, the story reminds children of something deeply important: love continues searching for us, even on our worst days.
Written with warmth, emotional honesty, and compassion, Duke and Toby Get In Trouble encourages conversations about:
- consequences and accountability
- guilt and emotional regulation
- forgiveness and second chances
- impulsive behavior and self-control
- family connection and unconditional love
- learning and growing from mistakes
Perfect for children ages 4-10, parents, teachers, counselors, therapists, and dog lovers alike, this heartfelt story reassures young readers that mistakes do not define who they are. What matters most is learning, growing, and knowing that home, love, and forgiveness are still waiting for them at the end of even the hardest day.
Grandemange: - Alain Grandemange is an author, editor, and photographer whose work is rooted in quiet moments, meaningful connections, and the beauty of everyday life. Drawing inspiration from rural living, nature, and the rhythms of home, his stories invite readers to slow down, notice more, and find meaning in simple truths.His children's books are known for their emotional depth, gentle wisdom, and thoughtful storytelling. Rather than offering easy answers, Alain's stories explore empathy, resilience, curiosity, and the importance of presence-encouraging young readers to reflect, feel, and grow alongside the characters. Each book carries a message children need to hear, wrapped in warmth, honesty, and care.As a photographer and visual storyteller, Alain brings a keen eye for detail and atmosphere to his work, often blending words and imagery to create immersive, comforting worlds. Whether writing for children or creating visual art, his goal remains the same: to create work that feels sincere, lasting, and deeply human.Alain lives in rural Virginia, where the landscape, animals, and daily moments of country life continue to shape and inspire his creative work.
Publishing, Alandrea: - Alandrea Publishing is an independent publishing house dedicated to creating thoughtful, beautifully crafted books that celebrate presence, connection, and the quiet richness of everyday life. Rooted in a love of storytelling, nature, and meaningful reflection, Alandrea Publishing focuses on work that feels sincere, lasting, and deeply human.The catalog spans children's literature, adult coloring books, and visual storytelling projects, each designed to invite readers to slow down, notice more, and engage with the world in a gentler, more intentional way. For children, Alandrea Publishing produces emotionally resonant stories that emphasize empathy, resilience, curiosity, and kindness-offering lessons that unfold naturally through narrative rather than instruction.In its visual works, including coloring books and photography-based projects, the press emphasizes craftsmanship, atmosphere, and calm-creating spaces for creativity, mindfulness, and quiet joy. Every publication is guided by the belief that books can be both comforting and meaningful, simple yet profound.Based in rural Virginia, Alandrea Publishing draws continual inspiration from the natural landscape, country living, and the small moments that give life its depth. Each book is created with care, intention, and respect for readers of all ages.
