Author Description

The Adventures of Otis and Martha is a delightful tale of two curious, adorable dogs whose day spent outside of their own backyard ultimately leads them to an animal shelter. While at the shelter, Otis and Martha learn about a world very different from their own and make a new friend at the same time. In addition to raising awareness about the importance of animal shelters, valuable concepts such as honesty, true friendship, devotion and love are woven into the story as well. Jo Ann Gallo Benight originally hails from Paterson, New Jersey. After living in Atlanta, Georgia for a while, she relocated briefly to Seattle, Washington and then onto the metro Chicago, Illinois area - birthplace of Otis and Martha. Her two dogs Otis, a Dachshund and, Martha, an English Bulldog, are the inspiration for the characters of her story. This book is a loving tribute in memory of them. A former schoolteacher, Jo Ann enjoyed teaching her young students the art of creative writing and storytelling. She is now a full-time freelance writer, and volunteers for the Oregon Humane Society. Jo Ann currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her Husband, Steve, and two dogs, Isaac and Sabrina where she enjoys volunteering, reading, embroidery, visits with family and friends and, of course, writing.