I’ve been absent more than present here, but even so, Sally’s generosity shines when she emails me to let me know about her summer book fair and that my poetry collection, King Copper, will be amongst the highlighted books. This is thrilling because if Copper touches another heart through my tribute to him then my heart is touched as well. But I’m also honored to be among such talented authors such as Balroop Singh and Nicole Sara, both of whose books have graced my home library. So, thank you again, Sally! I invite you all to click on over to check out this fabulous book fair! Happy reading!
I hope you are enjoying your summer! We are traveling to the east coast next month to visit our son, daughter & son-in-law, and then a week later, we’ll enjoy respite by our favorite lake. I might even write some poetry! 🙂 I’m still nose-deep in several writing projects.
Anyway, thanks for popping in, and I hope joy embraces you in whatever you do! ❤️
Lauren Scott is a Pushcart Prize nominee who enjoys small-town living in California’s Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Although their daughter and son live out of state, frequent visits and modern technology keep their family of four close. Lauren is the author of four poetry collections, a memoir, and a children’s picture book. She has been a guest on several podcasts and her work has appeared in seven anthologies. Her poetry and prose has also been featured by Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations where she has received several honors. Lauren is a member of the Redwood Writers chapter and Marin chapter of the California Writers Club, and she is currently working on a new poetry collection and an early chapter book for children.
As Indie Authors, self-promotion is a must, but I loathe this part of publishing books. Yet, if not me, then who or whom? You know I don’t sell books for the money. If that were the case, I’d be in serious trouble. My expenses outweigh the profits with a substantial lead. Publishing my books began and will continue as a legacy for my family. And when I read reviews and learn how my writing resonated or touched the hearts of others, this is the true reward that surpasses monetary compensation. I haven’t done a promotional post in awhile, but for those of you who are new to my blog, this post might be of interest, or maybe some of you long-time friends aren’t familiar with my older books. I hope you enjoy these tidbits that I pulled from 5-star reviews:
~ Thoughts by Diana Peach, Author of Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver
This is the second book of Scott’s poetry that I’ve read. And I enjoyed it as much, if not more, than the first. Scott’s collection includes free form poetry, both with and without subtle rhyming. The poems feel personal, poignant, and from the heart, and many reflect the nature of love in its varied forms. Family relationships provide much of the fodder for reflection. There were so many poems I enjoyed that I stopped making notes. Some are touching and sentimental like “Morning After.” A poem called “Bananas” had me laughing with its silliness, and “Raindrops and Coffee” has wonderful imagery and a staccato rhythm (like raindrops). Other favorites were “In Loving Memory of Mom,” “Winter’s Lane,” and “Reflections.” Highly recommended for poetry readers who enjoy touching poems about life and family.
“Finding a Balance is a collection of beautiful poems that speak to the daily emotions of life and, in particular, the pain and sadness of her journey along the path of a life threatening illness in a family member. Both my sons have suffered, and continue to suffer, chronic illnesses so this is something that is close to my own heart and to which I intimately related. Seeing our loved ones in pain and ill and not being able to do anything about it is one of the heaviest burdens a mother can bear. These words say it all from “Reality’s Edge”:
“Shaking my head, I lie in beads of sweat’ gripping the edge, waiting to fall into the depths …”
…Not all the poems are about chronic illness. Many are about the poet’s love for her family and her husband of 26 years. There are some delightful romantic poems in this collection.”
“This is an extraordinary book and one that I could not put down. Scott captures the reader with her love for coffee, endearing tales, and the courage to live life to the fullest. Her exceptional writing resonates deeply with my own values, history, and love of storytelling. It is a charming book of prose and poems that will warm your heart and lift your soul. Scott highlights the beauty of marriage, friendship, and the love of family so beautifully, from the first story to the last poem, I felt as if I belonged in the pages of this delightful book. Scott explores all the facets of life, including love and sadness, gratitude and loss, humor and joy. She takes me on a familiar journey of a complicated life, including encounters with aggressive spiders, sacred heirlooms, grief, and long-distance relationships with grown children. I have Scott’s book by my bedside, within reach, so I can enjoy again and again her incredible knack for drawing one into a story, her arresting poetry, and the potency of a well-told story.”
~ Thoughts by Balroop Singh, Author of Beyond the Fetters
“Scott’s poetry celebrates memories and moments in her latest collection – ‘Ever So Gently.’ Her connection with the surroundings blends into the wisdom of nature that unfolds through stunning imagery like: “hear the rustle of a skittering squirrel,” “petals of velvet invite raindrops to bask in their peach enchantment,” and “breeze carries burdens down rivers.” From the birds that ‘flit and flutter’ to build their nest to the owl who proclaims his presence with his ‘high-pitched toots’ and the hummingbirds that flutter around the “bright pink petals” – all find a place of honor in this book to delight your moods. Lauren’s realism captivates and appeals to all the senses. From ‘The Peach Rose’ to ‘Firestorm’ and not to forget ‘I Was Adopted,’ her poetry slides most naturally on the wide canvas of creativity. Some more examples of Scott’s brilliant style:
“And water hasn’t caressed the hills The earth, parched like Chile’s Atacama.” “Silk-thread drizzles dusted rooftops and parched hills.”
~ Thoughts by Brian, Writing from the Heart with Brian
“The world can sometimes be a dark and scary place, but like the little fawn Cora in Cora’s Quest, we all need to remind ourselves that “my body may be small, but my courage is big.” Cora finds herself separated from her ma and pa on a dark trail. She fears the worst, but reminds herself to be strong and courageous. I’ve been repeating Cora’s message in my head frequently the past several weeks and it’s brought a smile to my face and hope to my heart. Lauren has created an enchanted story that’s perfect for the young and young at heart. I should add that the artwork by Chris Mendez is out of this world. The images and colors jump off the page. Cora’s Quest would be great to give as a gift or treat for yourself. I could see this book becoming a treasured part of the reading routine for little ones of every age. It’s a beautiful book and keepsake.”
“I was excited/nervous to read Lauren’s tribute to her beloved Copper. Excited because I know it was a labor of utmost love for Lauren. Nervous because I knew “King Copper” would prompt tears. Lauren writes with powerful poignancy. I embraced every word. Some tore at me, expressions familiar and raw about losing a predictable household rhythm…wrapped in fur. But so many words made me smile. Scratch that. Grin. I’m keeping my copy of “King Copper” at my desk, sitting next to my favorite basket. Such a face…such a sweet soul. Maybe he’ll find his way to a bookshelf, but not yet. This review is more than praise. It’s my heartfelt endorsement…perhaps a plea. “King Copper” is a worthy addition to your family library. A book you’ll want to recommend – just as I have – to dear ones experiencing loss. There’s comfort on every page, thanks to Lauren and her family. Thanks to Copper himself:
“I never went away; I’m sitting by your side. My love for you runs far and wide; I’ll never go astray.”
I’m grateful for those who have welcomed my books into their hearts and homes, and who have shared thoughts on Amazon and/or Goodreads. Reviews are like hugs for Indie Authors and who doesn’t love a hug?
Thank you for taking the time in your busy schedule to pop in to my corner of blogland and read about my books. Did you find common themes? Themes that would interest you?
If you’d like to purchase a copy, just click on the book titles that will gently carry you over to Amazon. Below are additional links, as well:
Lauren Scott is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press and Literary Revelations. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Her work was named Honorable Mention in The Smalls Too 2026 Poetry Contest from the California Writer’s Club. Lauren’s work is published in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and a collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
Since I’m not blogging as much, I received a message from Pooja, telling me that she posted her review of King Copper on her blog. I checked my notifications and saw hers – what a wonderful surprise for this Sunday morning! There are many ways of showing kindness, and I believe we’d all agree that our world needs more! Sharing book reviews is one special way! Thanks again, Pooja! 🙏💝
Here is a portion of her lovely words:
I’ve been reading a lot of poetry collections and books about pets and losing a pet which always gets me teary. But they’re also beautiful tributes to the good memories, the laughs and smiles shared. Anyone that’s had a pet will understand those bittersweet final moments and the love that a pet gives us.
King Copper is a beautiful tribute to Lauren Scott’s beloved dog, Copper. It is clear from the poems and the images that he was loved dearly by their entire family. I loved the poems in this collection. Some were uplifting and focused on the good moments with Copper and others were more touching such as March to March.
Despite Copper having said goodbye to the world, Lauren chose to focus on many of the joyous moments he brought her and their family. And in March to March she reminds the reader that even though he is gone, he’ll always have a place in the hearts of all that loved him.
I think the poem that really tugged at my heartstrings was To the Best Family which is written from Copper’s POV. It’s a reminder that when it comes to pets, we are their whole world. And goodbye is never forever.
Please click on the link below to read the rest of her beautiful review. I’m touched that Copper touched another heart. 🧡🤎❤️
If you’re a dog lover, a cat lover, or consider any pet to be family, the poems in this collection will resonate. ❤️
Now, I have to mention that Pooja not only writes beautiful and raw poetry that she shares on her wonderful blog, lifesfinewhine.ca, but she has just published her first novel, Perfect! I read it in 2 days, couldn’t put it down, and I’m working on my review, which I will share later this month. Here’s a snippet of Perfect:
A mother protecting her son. A boy spiraling into darkness. A girl who never stood a chance
Sally thinks she’s succeeded in breaking generational curses until she finds out her eldest son, James, is the prime suspect in Lily Johnson’s murder. After years of bliss, she’s forced to revisit dark family secrets she believed she had left behind. Even more unsettling is that the deeper she digs, the more she realizes that she may not know James as well as she thought.
Perfect is an emotionally gripping psychological domestic thriller that explores the impact of dark family secrets and the generational trauma it leads to. It will have readers questioning how well any of us know those we love and how far we’re willing to go to protect them.
I enjoy a riveting thriller or mystery as long as the story isn’t too graphic. Fitting the puzzle pieces together to solve a crime fascinates me. And Perfect was a perfect and compelling read! So, if you enjoy these genres too, pick up your copy! The story will grab a hold of you!!
Thank you, dear friends, for stopping by! I’ll be reading blogs today and into the week. ❤️🙏
Lauren Scott is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in the Bay Area with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press, Gobblers and Masticadores, and LatinosUsa. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023) and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Her work was named Honorable Mention in The Smalls Too 2026 Poetry Contest from the California Writer’s Club. Lauren’s work is published in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and a collection of poetry. Lauren’s muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
Poetry that will make you smile and touch your heart. ❤️
I am delighted to be featured again as a Treasuring Poetry guest on Writing to be Read with Robbie Cheadle! We all know Robbie and how multi-talented she is with her writing and baking, but she is also generous with putting other writers in the spotlight. However, if you haven’t met Robbie yet, here is a little bit about her…
South African author and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, has written and illustrated sixteen children’s books, illustrated a further three children’s books, and written and illustrated three poetry books. Her work has also appeared in poetry and short story anthologies.
Robbie also has two novels and a collection of short stories published under the name of Roberta Eaton Cheadle and has horror, paranormal, and fantasy short stories featured in several anthologies under this name.
You can find Robbie Cheadle’s artwork, fondant and cake artwork, and all her books on her website here: https://www.robbiecheadle.co.za/
Please visit us at Writing to be Read to read the interview by clicking on the link below. I appreciate this opportunity with Robbie very much. 🙏
King Copper is a beautiful collection of poems paying tribute to the life of the poet’s dog, Copper. We become incredibly connected to our pets and they are part of our families. As a result we experience great grief and loss when they pass over the rainbow bridge. Lauren’s recordings of magical moments in her relationship with Copper and the joy he brought her and her family are a delight to experience. These emotions are described in Lauren’s micro poem, Temporary Smiles:
“Memories of joy bring temporary smiles tears wash them away”
The Preface and Still to Soon prose sections share a bit about Copper, his introduction into the poet’s family and his subsequent life with them, and his passing. He lived to a good old age of 14 1/2 and is sorely missed by his family. The book includes some lovely photographs of Copper with various family members.
This collection is fairly short but it is a worthy read and will help ease other hearts aching from the loss of a beloved pet.
Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to see you at Writing to be Read! Have a wonderful Wednesday! ❤️
Lauren Scott is a recent Pushcart Prize Nominee who enjoys small-town living in Northern California with her husband, Matt, of thirty-seven years. Their daughter and son live out of state, and with frequent visits and technology, this family of four remains close. Lauren has published four collections of poetry, a memoir in verse and prose, and her first children’s book. She has been a guest on several podcasts, and her writing is featured at Spillwords Press, Gobblers and Masticadores, and LatinosUsa. At Spillwords Press, she was awarded Publication of the Year (Poetic 2026), Author of the Month (May 2023), and Publication of the Month (June 2025, October 2024). Lauren’s work is included in several anthologies. She is currently working on her second children’s book and another collection of poetry. Her muse discovers inspiration from family, spending time outdoors, and marveling at the mysteries of life.
What a nice surprise to find this lovely review this morning! Debby, thanks again, and I’m so glad you enjoyed my poetry collection and found many of the poems resonating.For those of you who haven’t met Debby, she has written several books that will make you smile, laugh out loud, and grab a tissue. So I encourage you to peruse around her cozy and beautiful site. In her most recent book, Debby writes about her journey through loss. I have read many of her books and loved them, and I will start this beautiful and emotional book soon.
The beginning of Debby’s 5 Star Review for Ever So Gently:
Lauren writes beautiful and heartfelt poetry. In this book she divides the book up into sections of various types of poetry – The Wisdom of Nature, – The Noise, The Laughter, The Chaos, The Loved Ones, and, – Lost in Thought. A lovely mix of story poems from nature to reflections on moment’s in life – reminiscing of poignant and tender moments, firsts, becoming a mom, reflections on life, losses, and her love for her family and pets. The imagery Scott portrays from her words are moving and many so relevant to today’s world…
To read Debby’s full review and find out which poems stood out for her, click over to her blog post from the link below:
Thank you for popping in today, and have a wonderful week ahead! 💖
We miss Copper this holiday season, but we’ll find comfort in the photos of him by the tree, wearing a Santa hat, or snoozing by the fire. If you’d like to order a copy, or know someone who would find comfort in this special collection, please click on the link. Thank you. xo
When Resa reviews a book, she does it with style. She was generous to ask me a few questions about Copper for her post today. The header she created goes straight to my heart. It’s hard to find the right word, so “WOW” is it for now! 🙏🌈
I’m sure most of you know Resa, but if you don’t, please visit her sight to get to know her. She is one of the kindest people I’ve met and a good friend here in blogland. She has an eye for incredible street art that she shares on her blog, and she is a semi-retired costume designer for film and television where she displays her gorgeous gowns on artgowns.com. Here’s a little bit more about Resa in her words:
My first Art Gown “Strawberry Kisses” was to create some beauty in my life after mom died. It was a hit with people, so I continued to make and post more “Art Gowns”. At some early point, I began upcycling, repurposing and in general making the gowns out of any fabric or notions that were not new goods. I was using up anything headed for landfill. The Art Gowns are available to borrow or rent (situation dependent) for Gala’s, photo shoots and film production.
A glimpse into Resa’s touching interview:
I fell in dog love with Copper when I read, Copper Boy (Ever So Gently, also in King Copper)
"His white choppers shine as if they've never caused any commotion.. never mind when he attempted to eat the barbecue!"
Somehow, to me, animal love is proven with those words. I was always asking about him, and one day drew him. It is my first and only animal portrait.
To read the rest of Resa’s beautiful interview, please visit her lovely site! And thanks again, Resa, for your love and support through my King Copper journey! 🧡❤️🤎🌈
Comments are turned off, so I hope you’ll share your thoughts with Resa and me over at her sight. 🙏🌈
Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡
Thanks for stopping by, andI wish you a beautiful day! 🧡🤎❤️🌈
Lauren Scott
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
When I opened my email this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to find Thomas’ post where he shares his amazing review of King Copper. More gratitude is what I feel, and I’m thankful to say (respectfully) that the support just keeps coming. Thank you again, Thomas, for reading my collection about Copper, and for taking the time to write such a moving review. 🙏
Our beloved Copper Boy
The Life of a Dog named Copper by Thomas Wikman
Copper, a rescue Chocolate Lab, was picked up from a foster home in March of 2012 by a loving family and in return they received 13 years of unconditional love from Copper, who turned out to be a quite remarkable dog. This touching and beautiful book recounts his life in the form of poetry. What better way to tell the life of a dog, than through poetry. Some of the poems are from Copper’s perspective and some of them are from the author’s perspective. Some of the poems are fun, some speak of love, and some speak of grief. I think that everyone who’s ever owned dogs will recognize themselves in this book. I certainly did.
Dogs have personalities, they can express themselves, they are innocent, they are fun, they are loving, they can sense your mood and feelings, and they want to comfort you when you are sad. They love you and they can do amazing things, and they are part of the family. All of this is beautifully expressed in this book. This is a heartwarming book that will leave no heart untouched…
To read the full review, please visit Thomas’ wonderful site by clicking the link below:
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor at Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
I’m delighted to be over at Yvette’s today. She invited me to participate in an interview with her about King Copper, and she shares a snippet of her beautiful review on Amazon and how my book evokes memories of her beloved Cody...
Hello readers,
Today I am sharing about the book King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry, by LAUREN SCOTT
My review is on Amazon and here is a snippet for the formal review there:
“King Copper was a short and beautiful read that I truly enjoyed. It’s not a long book, but it captures the experience of bringing Copper home, living with him, and loving him through to the remarkable age of 14 and a half. The author’s affection for Copper comes through so clearly, and the inclusion of poems, which included some excellent limericks throughout (this added a fun and charming touch). My favorite limerick was Choppers:
There once was a dog named Copper Who sported a nice set of choppers He’d wiggle for treats Hold his nose up to beets And would never eat a grasshopper!
LAUREN: The first part of the book consists of entertaining poems from when Copper was with us. Then the tone changes as the poems segue into sorrow when I was writing through the grief. So, reading the older poems about Copper’s lovable nature and humorous antics makes me smile. The photos I included also bring to mind precious memories.
What’s one thing you hope readers takeaway from this book?
LAUREN: When a furry family member or any pet passes that has touched our lives, the feeling is simply loss. They are not ‘just pets.’ Dr. Vicki Atkinson at victoriaponders.com underscores the reasoning in her review: “For many of us, our pets embody the qualities we long for in humans; especially those who disappoint us. Caring, loyal and loving, they ask only for those qualities in return – delighted by belly rubs and extra kibble now and then.”
To read the rest of the interview and how Yvette incorporates her own experience into reading King Copper, please visit Yvette by clicking on the link below:
Thanks again, Yvette, for your lovely review and for the interview opportunity. I appreciate your support very much, and I’m so glad Copper has touched your heart. I can see Copper and Cody romping around in green meadows, having the time of their life. ❤️
If you haven’t met Yvette, please peruse around her wonderful site. She participates in writing and photo challenges, as well as, conducts frequent author interviews. She has a heart of gold! I was honored to be a part of her latest anthology, This Is How We Grow: Stories and Poems for Perspective Taking.
To order your copy, click on the image. 💙
Thank you for spending your precious time here, and I wish you a wonderful new week! ❤️
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author & Poet 