I have been very fortunate to have had many friendships throughout my life. Most have come and gone as we have changed and grown apart, yet I still maintain some friendships that have endured for decades. I noticed from time to time that although most of us began making friends at a very young age, decades later, many of us were still grappling with the same relationship issues that arose many years earlier. I realized that making and keeping close friends is truly a life skill that needs to be taught and refined throughout our lives. Wanting to connect with other humans is natural, but due to our own insecurities or family dynamics, we often struggle our entire lives with truly understanding what it means to have and be a good friend.

I was not thinking about all of this when I rediscovered my first book (written decades ago), and decided to illustrate and publish it, but when another author suggested I create a series based on friendship, the wheels in my brain would not stop turning. I loved the idea of using a dog and cat (historically—but not accurately—considered to be mortal enemies) and creating a beautiful friendship between them. Through their affection for each other, their differences would become sometimes supportive assets rather than limitations to their relationship. With that in mind, Rodney and Rainbow were born.