Finding Light After Loss: The Story Behind “Parker the Barker”
In a world where children’s literature often shies away from difficult topics, Chris Traister’s debut book “Parker the Barker” approaches loss with a gentle wisdom that speaks to readers of all ages. I recently had the privilege of interviewing Chris to discuss his heartwarming story about a spirited dog who continues his joyful barking even after crossing the rainbow bridge.
The Story Behind the Bark
“Parker the Barker” introduces us to an energetic heeler who finds pure joy in running around and announcing his presence to the world through enthusiastic barking. As the story unfolds, we witness Parker aging and eventually crossing the rainbow bridge. But in a beautiful twist, death isn’t the end of Parker’s story.
What makes this book especially poignant is its origin. “This story was inspired by my own dog named Parker who left this world in February of 2024,” Chris shared with a sincerity that touched my heart. “He was the glue of the house and my soul dog. He loved to bark and would find joy in making his voice heard.”
The book serves as both a tribute to a beloved companion and a gentle tool to help readers of all ages process the difficult emotions that come with losing a pet.
A Meaningful Message
When I asked what he hopes young readers will take away from the story, Chris’s answer revealed the book’s deeper purpose: “I wanted to tell a story about loss, but that life doesn’t end there. I wanted kids and adults alike to find comfort in knowing that although their furry friends are no longer with them, they are still having fun and being themselves across the rainbow bridge.”
There’s something beautifully reassuring about picturing our departed pets continuing their favorite activities—whether that’s barking, chasing squirrels, or simply basking in the sun—in a place beyond our sight but not beyond our hearts.
Finding His Voice as an Author
For Chris, the path to becoming a children’s book author was lined with both desire and hesitation. “I’ve been wanting to write a children’s book for as long as I could remember,” he explained. “My main obstacle was that I could never find a topic that would have meaning. I’m a writer by trade, so I find catharsis in creating stories. When I lost my dog, the idea was finally there.”
It’s a reminder that sometimes our most meaningful creative work emerges from our deepest pain, not because suffering is necessary for art, but because our authentic emotional experiences often provide the truest connection with others.
Interestingly, Chris shared something that might surprise readers: “I don’t have kids! Thankfully there are universal messages that transcend age.” This perspective underscores how the best children’s literature often speaks to fundamental human experiences that resonate regardless of age.
Literary Inspirations
Like many authors, Chris is influenced by the books that shaped his own childhood. His list of influential reads reads like a treasure map of classic children’s literature: “The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton, Fortunately by Remy Charlip, The Golden Books, Richard Scarry’s work, The Berenstain Bears, anything from Shel Silverstein, Hank the Cowdog, and The Boxcar Children to just name a few.”
He credits his parents’ love of reading for nurturing his early literacy, a reminder of how our own reading habits as parents can inspire the next generation of readers and writers.
When asked to recommend current children’s books, Chris mentioned “Rainbow Bridge from Steve Foxe and Steve Orlando probably had a big influence on the content of Parker the Barker.”
He also recommended “Nothing Ever Happens on My Block by Ellen Raskin,” describing it as “a great story about being aware and grateful for the life around you.” But perhaps most touching was his final recommendation: “ANY book that brings parents and kids together or inspires a love for reading is something that’s extremely important to me.”
Dreams and Imagination
In a lighthearted moment, I asked Chris what magical ability from children’s literature he would choose for himself. His answer revealed both humility and imagination: “I think I’d want Harold’s purple crayon. I’m terrible at drawing, but I love creating, so I can’t imagine the fun landscapes and quirky animals I could conjure. Not to mention all the places I could go without needing to travel!”
Words of Encouragement
Perhaps what resonated most from our conversation was Chris’s encouragement to aspiring writers. “I have heard from so many people say they could ‘never do what I did,’ and I want to say ‘yes you can.’ If you’ve ever had an idea for a book, just start writing. It won’t be good at first (and that’s OK) but you put words together to create a story.”
His message is both simple and profound: “You can write that novel, short story, children’s book, movie script or anything else you want. If no one else says it, I believe in you.”
Finding Healing Through Stories
As our conversation drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the healing power of stories—both for those who read them and those who write them. In transforming his grief over Parker’s passing into a story that might comfort others experiencing similar loss, Chris has created something truly special.
“Parker the Barker” reminds us that the connections we form with our pets can teach us lessons about love, joy, and even dealing with loss. It’s a gentle reminder that while our time with our beloved companions may be limited, the impact they have on our hearts is boundless.
For readers interested in “Parker the Barker,” Chris’s book is available on Amazon, offering a compassionate resource for families navigating the difficult conversations that come with pet loss, or for anyone who simply loves a good story about a dog who loved to bark.
Photo and image credit: Chris Traister
Have you read “Parker the Barker” or found other children’s books helpful in discussing pet loss with little ones? I’d love to hear your experiences.