Hector is wise, curious, adored by people, loves travelling and adventures - who more than the dog Hector could be child's closest friend and life guide?

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Hector's story is punctuated with the joys and sadness of life, his gentle and questioning nature throughout the narrative helps readers explore his experiences and reflect along with him as they happen. Hector's story is a great tool for the gentle exploration of difficult themes through a third party as well as being a heart warming tale. At Westminster Children's University, we have seen first hand the children's reactions to the story and the self-reflective comments it has elicited. The children have universally enjoyed and engaged with Hector and his journey. We offer dog mentoring alongside the workshops and book and find the text to be a complimentary tool in the mentoring process. A great way to explore themes and promote empathy for our amazing furry friends and others. We look forward to a long working relationship with the author and even more of Hector's adventures.

Stella Wilson, Queen's Park Primary School, Manager of Westminster Children's University

Author Renata Kaminska is aiming to publish educational books for children and dog lovers. She believes that dogs, like people, have personalities and feelings and that's important teaching children empathy and spark curiosity in reading. Renata is proud of her support and achievements, having received the University of Warsaw Entrepreneur of the Year award in the Social Entrepreneur category as well as being a finalist in the  BOLD Awards III competition in the Crowdfunding Projects 2022 category in Venice.

ABOUT FIRST BOOK 'HECTOR, A DOG'S STORY'

The first educational book Renata has published called 'Hector, A Dog's Story' in 2020 and it's available in English, Polish and now also in Ukrainian thanks to crowdfunding project called 'Hector & Friends for Ukraine'. It tells the beautiful tale of a puppy's love, friendship and search for happiness, set against the grey reality of the Second World War. 

The book breaks the taboo of difficult topics in children's literature, such as war, death, attitude to God, discrimination, abandonment and much more. The book was featured in Indian Robin Age, Australian Dog Lover, UK Your Dog magazine and others. The book has been read in over 16 countries on 5 continents. It's also included in a mentoring program on dogs for children under the patronage of Westminster Children's University. As part of it, Renata conducts workshops in schools on empathy development. 

It is a story that makes us think how the world and our lives might look from a dog’s perspective. Is it really black and white, and is their perception so different from ours? Throughout his journey, Hector shows us that hope never dies, and that for everyone there is happiness waiting. Hector, A Dog’s Story explores the values that should direct our life, and invites the reader to look at the world through different eyes. 

What are readers saying?

‘A Dog’s Story is a rare opportunity to experience and see life from a dog’s perspective.’

‘I would recommend this book to any other child who is as dog-mad as me!’

‘A touching story of friendship, love and devotion. Every adult and child should read this book to realize that every animal needs our love.’

‘I found this book both powerful and beautiful. It raises thought-provoking questions – often quite challenging – that children can ask themselves.’

READ REVIEWS & WHAT MEDIA SAYING 

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ABOUT SECOND BOOK 'HECTOR AND THE TIME MACHINE'

The second book 'Hector and the Time Machine' is fast-paced, adventurous story about the journey of Hector's dog, sensitive to the diversity of cultures, contemporary problems, and threats. Attention parents get ready for serious conversations and series of questions about very important matters!

This time the dog Hector travels on a time machine to 2020. In his journey around the world, he is an observer of important events and phenomena, including pandemics, climate change, Brexit, the Black Lives Matter movement, multiculturalism and much more. Just like a child, he asks questions and looks for answers to understand the complexity of the modern world.

The book helps parents engage in conversations with their children on difficult topics based on their own values system ​​and knowledge. Beautiful descriptions allow you to move to the colourful and full of aromas of India, drink the traditional five o'clock tea at Primary Minister’s’ house and finally take part in the Golden Globe Awards. Traveling to Australia during the great fire, because of human activity, motivates the reader to investigate the causes of climate change and introduces habits that save our planet. Children will fall in love with Hector, who will be happy to come back to common adventures and plan new ones.

What are readers saying?

"Hector’s story is a great tool for gentle exploration of difficult themes as well being a heart-warming tale”

Stella Wilson, Westminster Children’s University

"The over-riding message of the book is that respect, tolerance and love will provide the answers”

Sarah Wright, Editor Your Dog Magazine 

"If, dear parent, you are looking for a book that will help you talk to your child about what is happening in the world, this is the perfect starting position."

Natalia Supel, MA, psychologist of children and adolescents

ABOUT THE THIRD BOOK HECTOR AND CYBER ADVENTURES

Hector dives into the cyber world and learns all about staying safe online. With his friend Milli, a digital detective dog, Hector explores the police department and discovers how to deal with online threats. Together, they tackle real-world problems such as cyberbullying and scams, while learning about the internet, AI, and mobile technology. They share essential tips for young readers on how to navigate the digital world with care. This book is a must-read for children who are eager to become cyber-smart!

Some reviews from experts: 

Hector and Cyber Adventures is a very informative book for children, helping them to understand how to navigate the online world safely.

Barbs Benton, Parent of two children, editor, and proofreader

The “Hector and Cyber Adventures” book makes talking to your kids about online safety easier. This chapter book is more than a thrilling adventure; it's the perfect conversation starter for families navigating the often-treacherous online world.

Rebecca Edwards, Tech Reporter, Security Expert, SafeWise.com

“Hector and Cyber Adventures” is an educative and interesting book to read. The use of Hector the dog is very enticing for young people. I love the societal subjects addressed, for example, ‘Let's help

kids be safe and kind online!' This book, coupled with parental support and guidance is a great source.

Angela Karanja. Psychologist, Parenting Teenagers Expert & Founder

of Raising Remarkable Teenagers

The novels have been brought to life through the author’s engrossing storytelling, combined with colourful illustrations designed by award-winning Indonesian illustrator, Irfan Budi Harjo.

The author consulted psychologists and gathered feedback from parents and children, as well as animal lovers, and worked closely with well-known American editor, Mary Kole. Hector, a Dog’s Story is supported by 11 organizations, including seven charity foundations. All patrons can be found on the project website: www.hectorandfriends.com. Profits from the sale will go straight to foundations supporting our furry friends and the children who adore them.

BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE AT AMAZON 

‘I want to give what I can to those most in need’ – Renata Kaminska (author)

We organise workshops in schools

Charity project Hector & Friends for Ukraine

Get Ukrainian version of book here or ask for bulk order:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Since the age of 12, Renata Kaminska dreamed of publishing her own novel to raise money for dog and children’s charities. She is a passionate Polish-British writer, philanthropist, and creative mind behind the educational adventures of Hector the Dog. Renata Kaminska is dedicated to improving out-of-school education, fostering empathy among young people, and developing critical thinking skills. She is known for her unique approach to touching difficult topics for children and sharing valuable knowledge and guidelines through adventurous and engaging plots starring Hector the Dog.

Her commitment to positive change has earned her accolades, including the University of Warsaw Entrepreneur of the Year award in the Social Entrepreneur category and recognition as a finalist in the BOLD Awards III competition in the Crowdfunding Projects 2022 category in Venice.

WHERE TO BUY AND HOW TO GET THE HECTOR'S GADGETS?

The hardback books are available in a special edition with the author's signature and gadgets. The books can be purchased at: Amazon or www.hectorandfriends.com or Waterstones. 

CONTACT

Email: contact@hectorandfriends.com 

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