A Dog Story: Saturday Storytime with Craig Scalise

Join us at The Book Stall for a special Saturday Storytime with author Craig Scalise featuring his new book, A Dog Story - Misty's Healing Power, an inspiring story for all ages about a girl, her Husky, and the healing they bring to their community. This multi-generational tale of resilience shows the power of freely offering, and sometimes accepting, healing. When people feel they aren’t strong enough or wise enough, they can let a dog lead the way. Licensed professional counselor Josh Novick will be available for parents to discuss the importance of dog therapy. The storytime will also feature a visit from therapy dog, Cali! 

Craig Scalise, a 26-year Glencoe resident and economist by day, has trained over 500 mental health professionals in dogs’ emotionally therapeutic power while also serving as a therapy dog handler and coach for emotional support animal seekers. A Dog Story— Misty’s Healing Power is based on the true story of Craig’s own therapy dog holding off illness long enough to help start community healing after a tragedy, which Craig adapted from a screenplay he wrote for an in-production animated short film, Misty.

Josh Novick is the founder of Trust and Grow Consulting, and has over a decade of experience in education, trauma intervention, and mental health advocacy. In July 2022, following the Highland Park Fourth of July parade tragedy, Josh co-led the emergency response center, mobilizing over 600 volunteer therapists in just five days to provide immediate support to those affected. His leadership during this time earned him the Illinois State Senate Award. Today, through Trust and Grow Consulting, Josh continues to support communities and professionals by fostering post-traumatic growth, psychological safety, and resilience, collaborating with schools, organizations, and communities to create safer, more supportive environments.