Consuelo Roscoe is a local veteran, a mom, a research analyst, and a book author who values giving back to her community.

By day, Roscoe works as a human resources analyst in the aerospace and defense Industry. In her free time, she writes and volunteers, helping to mentor teen moms in Huntsville through YoungLives, a local program.

This August, Roscoe published her first children’s book, “Happy the Dog”. The book is about loss and sadness, but also about new beginnings and happiness.

“It tells the story of a little girl named Montana who learns that even when something is taken from you, good things can still come back around,” Roscoe said.

According to Roscoe, she was inspired to write this story because of a difficult experience her family went through.

Almost a decade ago, Roscoe was stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. She and her family were preparing to transition to their next duty station, but the airline prohibited dogs from flying in the cargo area during the hot summer months.

A co-worker volunteered to watch the family’s dog, Roxie, until the ban was lifted. At first, Roscoe spoke to him often, but eventually, he stopped answering her calls.

“Roxie was stolen from us. We were heartbroken. My children were devastated, but still hopeful,” Roscoe said.

Five years ago, Roscoe and her family brought home another dog. She said the new pet brought them all joy and healing.

“That experience taught my children that when you do good and keep faith, good always finds its way back to you,” Roscoe said.

She continued, “Happy may be a fictional dog, but she’s a reflection of that same feeling … love, hope, and restoration.”

Roscoe said she never imagined she would one day become an author.

“Writing this book was a way to honor our story and share a positive message with children. I’ve always had a love for children and helping others, and this book brought those two worlds together,” Roscoe said.

Roscoe said she plans to continue writing more about her character, Happy the dog.

“’Happy the Dog’ is just the beginning of what I hope will become a series of uplifting stories that inspire children and families everywhere,” Roscoe said.

Overall, she’s received positive feedback about her storybook and is excited to continue expanding the story and publishing more material next year.

“It really brought me so much joy because when I get little testimonies from little kids saying, ‘Oh my goodness, such a good book.’ It just makes my heart so happy,” Roscoe said.

Continuing her love for serving her community, Roscoe will read “Happy the Dog” to a local Girl Scout Troop this October. She’ll also speak to another troop this November about her process of writing a book.

Overall, Roscoe is grateful for her experiences as they have helped her learn how important it is to encourage others who may be going through a tough season.

“Serving my country as an Army veteran taught me that every journey, whether in work, life, or faith, is about perseverance and purpose. Mentoring teen moms in Huntsville has also shown me how important it is to speak life and hope into others,” Roscoe said.