Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Feliciano.
Hi Diana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
After a painful divorce 7 years ago, I rescued my dog—and in many ways, she rescued me too. Through deep inner work and countless nature adventures together, I found healing and inspiration. I’ve been teaching in the public school system for 12 years and love it! I’ve seen how many children struggle with reading for many reasons – home life, trauma, etc. My passion has always been to make the learning environment a fun and engaging experience. Blending my love for animals, storytelling, and education, I created the first-ever interactive book for dogs—a joyful, connection-driven way to inspire reading for anyone and their pups.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The self-publishing journey was not smooth—but it was one of the most transformative roads I’ve ever walked. Creating a book that had never existed before meant diving into uncharted territory. It took months of research, countless revisions, and a willingness to take real risks. It required relentless faith in the vision, even when the path felt uncertain. Gaining the confidence to launch a Kickstarter was a milestone in itself. Seeing it fully funded was surreal—it showed me that others believed in this dream too.
Behind most successful projects is a team, and I’m beyond grateful for the people who brought this book to life with me. My illustrator said yes to the wild idea and brought it to life with so much heart. My editor and formatter/cover designer were true godsends—believing in this project from day one and treating it with the same care and passion I did.
This journey taught me a lot – mainly that when an idea is placed in your heart, take action towards it and if its meant to be, it will become exactly what its supposed to, maybe even better.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am first and foremost a teacher in the public school system. I work with struggling readers to provide intervention to small groups of students ranging from Kinder to 5th grade. What I am known for: I was inspired to write and create an interactive book for dogs to boost reading experiences for people & dogs. The book concept is unique because it has scented pages (bacon, peanut butter, cheese, vanilla) and noise buttons (squeaky ball and doorbell) to keep engagement for both dogs and people through out the read. The book is meant for dogs to enjoy but of course humans find enjoyment in this because its a great way to bond with your best furry friend. The thing that I am most proud of is bringing a unique idea to life. There were so many doubts initially but as I allowed faith to guide the process, doors kept opening. I followed through and didn’t give up and for that I am beyond grateful to be able to encourage others to do the same.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory would have to be playing outside and exploring nature with my brother. There really isn’t a specific memory but just in general. We would be out there for hours no matter how cold it was. We’d forget about dinner. I think that’s why I gravitate toward nature now. I also remember being a teacher’s helper in my elementary years. I remember organizing papers and such for my teacher at the time. That’s what sparked my desire to be a teacher.
Pricing:
- $25 for the book (A Day in the Life of Your Dog) – readers can have free shipping with code SHIPDOGBOOK
- I am also taking pre-orders for the new book – A Christmas Day in the Life of Your Dog – through my website
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.charliendiana.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlie_n_diana
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1UNTwbSq3v/
- Other: charliendiana2019@gmail.com
Image Credits
Cassidy Jo Photography
