Spartanburg, S.C. — A rescued dog with an international past is the inspiration behind a new children’s book by author Martin, whose debut title follows the journey of her beloved pet from China to the United States.
“Gorgeous Georges,” self-published in October, is available in paperback, hardcover and e-book formats through Amazon. The book takes its name from the affectionate nickname Martin gave her Shih Tzu-Lhasa Apso mix, George, who was rescued through Bunny’s Buddies, an international animal rescue organization.
Martin originally planned to adopt a golden retriever, but her lifestyle at the time — apartment living and a full-time office job — made a large, high-energy dog impractical. Instead, rescue coordinators suggested George.
“They sent me his photo and said, ‘This is the dog we have,’” Martin said. “I told them I trusted their judgment. It turned out to be the perfect fit.”
In the book, George’s story begins with the loss of his elderly owner in China, followed by a stay in a shelter before he is selected for adoption in America. The story follows his emotional journey as he travels to the United States and slowly adjusts to life in a new home, making friends along the way.
Martin and her mother traveled from Raleigh, North Carolina, to New York City to meet George when he arrived in the U.S. Though nervous, George quickly began settling into his new life.
Now living in the Charlotte area, Martin remains deeply involved in dog fostering and rescue work, bringing additional animals into the home temporarily. That experience has helped shape future story ideas.
“I’d love to continue writing from George’s point of view and include some of his foster friends,” Martin said. “There was one named Bunny who had to wear pajamas — kids would love that.”
Writing a children’s book had long been a personal goal, but it was a conversation with her husband, Matt, that prompted her to act.
“He told me to stop talking about it and actually do it,” Martin said. “I sat down that night and the story just came together.”
Illustrations for the book were created by Rachel Woodhouse, a family friend and artist who previously painted a portrait of George. Though Woodhouse was juggling new motherhood at the time, she ultimately agreed to take on the project.
“She brought the story to life,” Martin said. “The illustrations are exactly what I hoped for.”
Beyond telling George’s story, the book encourages children to show compassion toward animals. It includes discussion questions, fun facts and a “kindness challenge” that offers age-appropriate ways to support animal shelters, such as donating blankets, spending time with shelter dogs or encouraging adoption.
Martin hopes the message resonates with young readers in communities like Spartanburg, where animal rescue groups rely heavily on public support.
“If kids learn empathy early, it can make a real difference,” she said. “Even small acts of kindness can change a life — just like it did for George.”
