Phoenix mother’s shares daughter’s heartwarming journey with rescued pets in debut book

HAVING drawn inspiration from her daughter’s unconditional love for their rescued pets, a Phoenix mother has crafted a vibrant narrative in her debut book, Ariya’s Furry Family: Where Rescued Pets Find Love. 

Kumari Dewrance, 40, said the inspiration behind her book came from her 19-month-old daughter and the animals that became part of their family through rescue.

“After my daughter was born, I made the decision to resign from my position at the South African Medical Research Council’s HIV and Other Infectious Diseases Research Unit, so that I could dedicate more time to being present in her early years. I am now a proud stay-at-home mum, and during this chapter of my life, I have embraced the opportunity to explore creative projects like writing a children’s book,

“In addition, I found myself reflecting on the love, healing, and joy that animals have brought into our lives, especially during some of the most difficult times, like the loss of my mother. Watching my daughter connect so naturally with our pets, especially in the garden that once belonged to her grandmother moved me deeply."

Dewrance, who recently graduated with a Master’s degree in public health at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, said she began writing the book in mid-May. She said the book was completed and published last month. 

“I wanted to create something meaningful that celebrates compassion, kindness, and the bond between children and animals. Writing this book was my way of honouring my mother’s memory, capturing the magic of my daughter’s love for animals, and giving a voice to the stories of our rescued pets who, despite their tough beginnings, found safety and love in our home. This book is not just for toddlers, it is a little piece of our family’s heart."

Dewrance said the book was a colourful, loving journey through a day in the life of a child, who shared her heart and home with animals who needed a second chance. 

“The story follows Ariya as she spends the day with her five rescued furry friends, each with their own personality and habits. Told in gentle rhymes and full of interactive moments, the book encourages young readers to count the pets, make animal sounds, and join in playful actions like cuddling, hiding or blowing kisses. It is also more than just a fun story, it is a celebration of kindness, second chances, and the joy of giving animals a loving home.

“I absolutely loved every part of creating the book, from writing the story to designing and creating the illustrated characters. Bringing Ariya and her furry family to life through the illustrations was especially rewarding and made the whole process truly special."

Dewrance added that the book was deeply personal. 

“It reflects my life and the lives of those closest to me. Every character is real, inspired by my daughter’s pure love for animals and the rescued pets who have become treasured members of our family. Between 2017 and 2019, I rescued seven cats from various places around us. One little soul, a tiny kitten barely a month old, was found at the Verulam market. She was sick with sniffles, and her eyes were shut tight with mucus. At the time, I lived with my mum in Phoenix, who lovingly helped me care for all the cats. Tragically, in 2023, my mum passed away after a battle with lung cancer. Her loss left a huge hole in our hearts. 

“Amid the grief we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter in October 2023. Shortly thereafter, we made the decision to move into my late parents’ home in Phoenix, a space full of warmth, memories, and healing. Our daughter especially loves spending time in her grandmother’s garden, where the rescued pets roam freely and safely.

"In February last year, our family grew again with Bella, a beautiful dog with a heartbreaking past. Bella had been living at a truck yard, and a man who worked there told us she had once been stabbed,” he said. 

Dewrance said through her book she hoped to inspire families to embrace kindness, consider adopting rescued animals, and enjoy meaningful reading moments with their children. 

She added as part of giving back, she had also reached out to the SPCA and would be donating a copy of the book to help raise funds through a raffle or auction. 

“Since the story is about rescued pets and love, it feels only right to support the real heroes working daily to protect animals. I hope this small gesture will raise both funds and awareness for their incredible work.”

Dewrance added that she intended on writing more books in the future. 

“I would love to keep writing books that grow alongside my daughter, creating age-appropriate stories for each stage of her life. As she grows older, I hope she will tell me what kinds of stories she would like me to write. It is my dream to continue this journey with her, turning our everyday moments, lessons, and imagination into books we can share with other families too.”

The book is available on Amazon as both an eBook and a paperback. You can also purchase it directly from Dewrance. For more information, call or message on 082 957 6076.    

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