🎉 New Book Alert! Wendell The Giant Dachshund’s latest adventure releases Tuesday! 📚🐾
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Learning To Love What Makes You Different

Wendell The Giant Dachshund

Through funny, tender moments and kid‑relatable worries, Wendell’s stories help children explore belonging, self‑acceptance, and what it means to be part of a family.

Will Wendell find someone to love him?

In a village filled with picture-perfect homes and playful pets, Wendell stands out – literally.
He’s a giant dachshund, and his size has always made him feel like he doesn’t belong. But Wendell isn’t interested in being just another show dog; he wants a real friend and a family who will love him, flaws and all.
Will Wendell find someone to love him and become his forever family? And will Wendell learn to accept himself just as he is?

• Wendell is a giant, wiggly dachshund, much bigger than most. While many dachshunds are the size of a loaf of bread, Wendell is more like a squishy furry watermelon.

• Standard dachshunds like Wendell are rare in the United States, and his story began when his mom traveled all the way from Europe.

• When he was a puppy, a little white stripe appeared on his nose like a surprise sticker, and it has been part of his charm ever since.

• Wendell is gentle, loving, and full of energy. He enjoys belly rubs, zoomies in the snow, and long cuddles with his family.

• He never says no to food and loves sharing snacks and adventures with CJ.

• Wendell is a loyal friend with a big heart, and he always finds a way to make the people around him feel loved.

• Wendell loves having a puppy sister to play with, run with, and explore the world with. He also loves the extra cuddles that come with being a big brother.

Melodie The Friendly Dachshund:

• Melodie was adopted from a foster group after being rescued from a very scary home, and she quickly learned she was finally safe.

• She is a Shaded Red Standard Dachshund. Not as giant as Wendell, but still a very big dachshund with a huge spirit.

• She is tough, energetic, and loves to play with Wendell. Their games of chase are fast like lightning.

• Melodie has an incredible nose for exploring and never turns down a chance to sniff out something new.

• She loves her dog toys, especially when she can show them off with a proud little prance.

• Meeting new people is one of her favorite things. She climbs into laps for kisses and sometimes gives tiny, silly puppy nibbles on faces.

• She adores cuddling with CJ and Wendell, and some of her happiest moments are when the kittens curl up beside her.

• Melodie brings joy and courage everywhere she goes, and she always finds a way to make new friends on her adventures.

Our Story

The Beginning of Wendell’s Journey

Wendell the Giant Dachshund began as more than just a story—it was inspired by real-life moments of love, self-discovery, and embracing what makes us unique. When we first met Wendell, we knew he was special. He was bigger than most dachshunds, and at first, that made him stand out in a way that wasn’t always easy. But as we got to know him, we realized that the very thing that made him different was exactly what made him extraordinary.

From Inspiration to Book

Wendell’s journey of self-acceptance became the heart of our book, Wendell the Giant Dachshund Finds His Family. Through his adventures, he learns that being different isn’t something to be ashamed of—it’s something to celebrate. His story isn’t just about a dog finding a home; it’s about anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t belong, reminding them that they are perfect just as they are.

Lessons from Wendell

At the core of Wendell’s story are values we hold close:

🐾 Embrace Who You Are – Just like Wendell, we all have something unique to offer the world. The things that make us different make us special.

🐾 Consider the Source – When facing unkind words, we remind kids (and adults!) to ask: Is this coming from someone who loves me? Is it meant to help me? If not, it’s not worth believing.

🐾 The 5-Second Rule of Kindness – Before commenting on someone’s appearance, ask yourself: Is this something they can change in five seconds? If not, it’s better left unsaid.

🐾 You Are Loved – Wendell wants everyone to know that they are valuable, worthy, and loved—exactly as they are.

More Than a Story—A Movement

Wendell the Giant Dachshund is more than a book series; it’s a mission to teach kindness, confidence, and self-love to children everywhere. We want every reader to walk away knowing that their differences are their strengths and that kindness has the power to change the world.

Through books, community outreach, and meaningful conversations, Wendell’s journey continues. And we’re so grateful you’re here to be part of it.

Be Brave. Be Kind. Be You.

Education That Grows With Your Students

Programs For Schools & Organizations

From STEM curriculum to character development presentations, we bring hands on growing education and life skills training directly to your classrooms and teams. Our programs combine food security education with social emotional learning that creates lasting impact.

Connect With Us

Whether you need educational resources, want to book a speaking event, or are curious about our AI consulting services, we’re here to help you succeed.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common Growing Questions Answered

    Here are some of the most common questions we get, and we’re always here to help if you have more!

    How do Wendell The Giant Dachshund books help with character development?
    Answer:Wendell’s stories use real‑life moments to show kids what kindness, perseverance, and responsibility look like in action.

    Each adventure gently reinforces positive choices, empathy, and problem‑solving skills that kids can apply in their everyday lives.
    What age group are the Wendell books best suited for?
    Answer: The stories are written for early elementary readers, typically ages 4–9, but younger children enjoy them as read‑aloud picture books with an adult.

    Older siblings and caregivers can also use the themes and discussion questions to spark deeper conversations about values and food.
    Can these books be used in classrooms or school programs?
    Answer: Yes, the Wendell series works well in classrooms, after‑school programs, and school gardens as a literacy and social‑emotional learning tool.

    Educators can pair the stories with hands‑on activities, reflection prompts, and garden projects that meet curriculum standards.
    What themes do Wendell’s stories focus on?
    Answer: Wendell’s adventures center on big feelings like belonging, courage, and learning to love what makes you different.

    His love, bravery, and loyalty help children see that being kind and staying true to yourself matters more than how you look or how others see you.
    How much does it cost to have you speak at our school?
    Answer: For Central Ohio schools, we are currently offering a special package that includes a Wendell book preorder, delivery of books to the school, and a 30‑minute speaking event covering themes from the story.

    We are planning on waiving Speaking fees in most cases for Central Ohio schools that book their event before February 28, and you can send a message through the contact form on this page so we can discuss your specific event details.

    For schools outside Central Ohio, virtual webinar‑style visits and other custom options are available, and pricing will depend on the format and size of your event.

    *Every event is unique please fill out a contact form and we'll be happy to discuss your unique needs.