Betsy Pauly died five years before Jen Braaksma knew she had even lived. Betsy was an artist and writer hailing from Minnesota, Texas, Missouri and Florida. Jen is an author and book coach from Ottawa, Canada. Yet, improbably, Betsy became Jen’s friend.
When Betsy died, she left behind a heartbroken husband, a hole in the hearts of her family and friends, and a half-finished manuscript. Betsy was a dedicated animal welfare advocate who would never say no to a stray dog or cat (or dozens!) — and to honor his wife, Chips wanted to publish her animal stories.
Turning manuscripts around is Jen’s job. But as she worked, she formed an unexpected friendship with the woman on the page. How was that even possible? Readers might feel they “know” an author by their writing, but Jen’s experience went further. She got to see Betsy’s drafts and her process. She got to see Betsy’s mind. And in doing so, she got to know this extraordinary woman.
This may be Jen’s journey, but it’s Betsy’s story. A story about dedication, passion, and the connection that comes from sharing your authentic self–even when it’s with someone you can never meet.
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Memoir
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Praise & Reviews for Befriending Betsy
“Purr-fectly endearing and paws-itively charming—this interwoven tale of two women who never met yet are kindred spirits invites animal lovers to befriend Jen as she befriends Betsy. Full of heart, humor, and a touch of tail-wagging mischief, it will appeal to anyone who adores furry friendships.”
— Jude Berman, author of The Vow, a 2024 Kirkus Best Indie Book
“A story about a camaraderie based on the desire to make the lives of others a bit easier… Betsyʼs compassionate life will live forever in her words, a series of quirky break-your-heart vignettes with happy endings.”
— Lola Reid Allin, author of Highway to the Sky: An Aviatorʼs Journey
“Hilarious, moving, and filled with heart, Befriending Betsy proves how easily friendship can cross species lines and even jump the ultimate barrier–death itself.”
— Meredith Walters, author of This Animal Body
“If you have ever rescued a pet, you will love and appreciate Betsy Paulyʼs determination to never give up on finding forever homes for the four-legged homeless. As a veterinarian, I connected with this animal lover, as did Jen Braaksma, who took on the challenge of bringing to print this posthumous memoir. Filled with entertaining alliterations and verbal gymnastics, this book is a fun read that warms the heart.”
— Dr. Dawn Filos, author of Tales of a Pet Vet: Stories from the Clinic and House Calls