Janet Chaloux-Baum was born in Maine and raised in Mt. Vernon, Virginia, right across from George Washington’s home. She graduated from the University of Virginia and then travelled west to California.

Janet is a current and proud resident of Encinitas, California, where she has lived most of her life. She is married, has a son and daughter, a Pug named Taz, and lots of grandpuppies, including Benji. Janet has enjoyed years of volunteering, including serving as the San Diego Chapter President of the UVA Club, PTA President, and Study Buddy Coordinator. This led her from her job in marketing and technical writing to the inspiring field of teaching and earning her master’s degree in Education.

Janet Chaloux-Baum is a teacher in Encinitas and has been for the past 20 years. She has been recognized as the Teacher of the Year and is a fellow of the Writing Project at the University of California San Diego. Janet is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators in San Diego.

As a parent who had taken her own child to the hospital, Janet realized there was a need to write a book for parents and children who also had to take a trip to the hospital. This story is set in a local beach town where the idea for the book was formulated and is told through the eyes and hearts of beloved pets. This book is dedicated to children everywhere, who find hope, friendship and healing with help from their families, friends, and medical teams on their journey to wellness.