INSPIRATION

Mugsy & Bugsy Learn to Dance was inspired by a visit to Guiding Light Dance Academy in Dracut, MA. My daughter, Elle, and I were welcomed by Ms. Jen and her wonderful students, whose energy, focus, and joy filled the studio. Watching them dance sparked the idea for Mugsy and Bugsy’s next big adventure!

A special thank-you to Ms. Jen, the dancers, and their families for inspiring this book.

Mugsy & Bugsy Go on a Safari takes place in South Africa — inspired by my very own safari adventure! From the breathtaking savannas to the incredible wildlife (and even a few familiar faces on the journey!), this story captures the wonder, excitement, and a few of the unexpected surprises that come with exploring the wild. I wanted to bring to life the beauty of the animals, the friendships made along the way, and the courage it takes to step into a new adventure — especially when Mugsy and Bugsy are leading the mission! If you’ve ever dreamed of going on safari, you just might recognize some of the magic that makes it an unforgettable experience.

Mugsy & Bugsy Go Golfing takes place at Sandy Burr Country Club in Wayland, Massachusetts — one of my favorite places to play! From the rolling greens to the clubhouse (and even a few familiar faces on the course!), this story is inspired by my own golf adventures. I wanted to capture the sunshine, laughter, and a few of the funny “mishaps” that come with a day out golfing — especially when Mugsy and Bugsy are part of the foursome! If you’ve ever played at Sandy Burr, you just might recognize some of the scenery and golf spirit that make it such a special place.

Mugsy & Bugsy Go Skiing takes place at Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine — one of my favorite places to ski! From the snowy slopes to the cozy lodge (and even a few familiar faces on the mountain!), this story is inspired by my own ski adventures. I wanted to capture the fun, laughter, and a little bit of the chaos that comes with a day on the slopes—especially when Mugsy and Bugsy are involved! If you’ve ever visited Sugarloaf, you just might recognize some of the scenery and ski spirit that makes it such a special place.

Mugsy & Bugsy Go Horseback Riding takes place at Cornerstone Ranch, the very real ranch where I go horseback riding! From the beautiful trails to the amazing horses (yes—Hope, Malarkey, Frick & Frack, Cheech, and even Falcon are real!), this story is inspired by my own adventures. I wanted to bring the magic of this special place to life through Mugsy and Bugsy's eyes. If you've ever visited the ranch, you just might recognize a few familiar faces! Cornerstone Ranch is located in Princeton, MA!

Mugsy & Bugsy Go to Hawaii takes place on the beautiful island of Oʻahu — and it's where their adventures first began!  Inspired by my own unforgettable trip! From the golden beaches to the lush mountains (and even a few familiar faces along the way!), this story captures the warmth, adventure, and aloha spirit that make Hawaii so special. I wanted to share the beauty of the islands through Mugsy and Bugsy’s curious eyes — full of discovery, laughter, and love. Whether you’ve been to Hawaii or dream of visiting someday, you just might recognize the magic that makes it a place like no other. 

Our dapper top-hat-wearing hero, Mugsy (a.k.a. Milo), came from the wonderful Copper Moon Persians—a cattery known for raising loving, beautiful Persian cats. We're so thankful for the amazing start they gave him! If you're looking for a feline friend as sweet and charming as Milo, check out the website attached!