JOAL DERSE DAUER has had a lifelong passion for animals and has worked as a Transitional Organization Specialist for more than twenty-five years. In addition to Sadie, she is a "mom" to a Border collie mix named Sparky and two cats, Miss Kitty and Kit Kat. Saving Sadie is her first book. Together she and Sadie travel the country spreading their important messages about special needs acceptance, anti-bullying, and strengthening the laws and punishments regarding animal cruelty and abuse. ELIZABETH RIDLEY is the author of five novels and a two-time writing fellowship recipient. She has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Northwestern and a master's degree in creative writing from The University of East Anglia in England. She is a proud "cat mom" to Claudius and Calpurnia. Learn more about Sadie at savingsadie.com.