“Mommy’s Boy is an absolute must-read for dog lovers.... It’s for anyone who’s ever rebuilt themselves after heartbreak, found love in unexpected places, or realized that sometimes, the best relationships aren’t the ones we’re conditioned to chase.... If you’ve ever known the kind of love that only a dog can give, this book will feel like home.”

—Literary Titan

“Mommy’s Boy is a poignant love letter to a dog who was much more than 'just a dog.' Schaeffer reminds readers that sometimes the deepest connections come on four paws. For anyone who has ever had their heart stolen by an animal, this book will speak directly to the soul.”

—Edward Sung for IndieReader

“Mommy’s Boy is one of the most moving stories I have ever read.... It will make you smile and cry at the same time.... This is a heartfelt story about unconditional love, the importance of celebrating life, and the special relationships we build with our pets.”

—Luwi Nyakansaila, Readers’ Favorite

"Fueled by themes of love, trauma, and grief, Schaeffer's memoir reflects on her life with Benny. Whether Schaeffer's recalling Benny's special 'Benny Boogie' dance of welcome or mourning the loss of her 'source of comfort during tough times,' this hits home. Loving tribute to the bond between pets and their owners."

—BookLife

"Mommy's Boy is a heartwarming and sweet memoir about how one dog changed the life of [the author]. [T]his book will charm the reader and delight the heart of any animal lover."

—Reader Views

At forty-one, Jennifer is shy, anxious, and frustrated with her dating life. After one too many broken hearts, she shifts her focus from meeting the man of her dreams to finding her four-legged soulmate. Left to fend for himself on the streets of Chicagoland, a sickly, scruffy dog gains a second chance at life when a rescue group scoops him up and nurses him back to health. When the little dog gazes into Jen’s eyes on the day their worlds collide, she immediately knows he’s “the one.” After she brings home the wriggly ragamuffin and rechristens him Benny, he wiggles his way into her heart and takes up permanent residence. Despite his angelic face and calm demeanor, Benny harbors a mischievous side. He steals any food that isn’t nailed down, chases squirrels with reckless abandon, unleashes a destructive streak, and battles chronic allergies and infections. He also eases Jennifer’s “baby fever,” becomes the spokesdog of her business, and is her constant companion as they zigzag the Midwest. But when Benny faces a life-threatening illness, Jen must face the reality that no matter what we do, our time with our pets is limited.

Mommy’s Boy is the heartwarming true story of two lost souls forging an unbreakable bond of unconditional love and emotional support. It’s a tender tribute to a special dog and a reminder to cherish every moment we have with our furry friends.