Wanda Arleen Barajas, wearing a blazer and a collared shirt, smiling at the camera against a plain background.

About the Author

Wanda is a children’s author, proud dog mom, and the heart behind Benny the Brave: A Story of Love, Loss, and Learning. Her debut book was inspired by her real-life rescue pup, Benny, whose resilience after a serious accident helped her craft a story that gently supports children through big emotions like sadness, bravery, healing, and unconditional love.

Wanda’s storytelling continues to grow, now reaching into themes of culture, family, nature, and belonging. Her upcoming book, Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra, celebrates Puerto Rican traditions through a magical friendship between a young girl and a gentle forest Paloma. Through her work, Wanda hopes to inspire children to embrace their roots, protect the world around them, and find courage and kindness in their everyday lives.

She lives in sunny California with her three beloved dogs, Benny, Luna, and Mylo, who continue to bring joy and inspiration to her creative world. When she isn’t writing, Wanda spends time with her family, creates personalized gifts, and shares uplifting stories that bring hearts together.

Meet the Pups Behind Benny the Brave

Three dogs dressed in costumes. Two Great Danes and one Chiweenie.

The real Benny and his big pup siblings—bringing love, laughter, and a whole lot of costume cuteness.

Amelia Mangham, the illustrator, holding a watercolor painting of a Benny the dog behind Benny the Brave: A Story of Love, Loss, and Learning.

From imagination to illustration: Meet Benny. Illustrator: Amelia Mangham

Let’s Connect

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