About

Come along with Jack and Rugby, two lovable, real-life dogs, as they venture out together and discover that the world is a much better place when you're with your best friend.

The Adventures of Jack and Rugby is a hit with kids of all ages. This heartwarming series captures the real-life friendship of these two endearing dogs, and the vibrant photographs in the books were all taken "on location" during the dogs' actual adventures together - with their human families - around Northern California and the Central Coast.

(And yes, they really met the pot-bellied pig Lilly who appears in The Sleepover!)

Jack and Rugby have since passed away, but their canine successors (a new lab for Tory's family and a new standard poodle for Cindy's family) have appeared at book signings around the Bay Area.

Events are currently on hold during the Coronavirus pandemic. Stay safe and use Jack and Rugby plush toys to teach kids about healthy social distancing! 

Jack and Rugby authors 

Hi, we're Cindy and Tory!

Our friendship began with the scheduling of puppy play dates, and, as our dogs became best friends, so did we. These stories grew out of our delightful excursions and real adventures with Jack and Rugby.

These books are dedicated to our dear dogs, Jack and Rugby, who brightened our lives immeasurably, and whose friendship with each other was a marvel to behold. In January, 2011, Jack and Rugby passed away within ten days of each other, both at the age of 13. May their sweet and joyous spirits live on, and by reading the stories of these lifelong pals, Jack and Rugby, may children learn the true meaning of friendship.


About the authors

Tory Beale, an artist and former child therapist, lives with her family in La Selva Beach, California.

Cynthia Messer lives with her family in Soquel, California, and is an educator and child advocate.