Kas Gharu on a personal journey with his special companions.

By Kas Gharu

I recently had my very first children’s book published. It’s called Bjorn’s Story, a street dog’s story of inspiration and hope.

The idea of writing a children’s book came to me during lockdown 2020, when I slowly began doing things I enjoyed again. I started to draw, inspired by my dogs, particularly my boy Koda who sadly passed away last year after 12 years.

I first met Bjorn in 2017. I had been helping out at the local dog rescue, alongside my youngest sister Maya. I realised there are some great personalities and stories here, some happy, joyful, inspiring but also some heart-breaking.

Bjorn arrived at the rescue in 2017, so I knew him very well and began to write and illustrate his story in 2020. There are many other stories and characters which I’d like to share someday, but I feel Bjorn has a true story of resilience, inspiration,
friendship and hope.

As for myself, I’ve done something that makes me happy. I’m a middle aged man living in East London and I feel I can hold my head high and say I’m a little proud of myself. Not only for getting Bjorn’s story out there, but for also doing something I’m passionate about and enjoy.

For the last ten years I was involved in the construction industry and doing things I didn’t enjoy. I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles and I’m getting to the point where I’m okay with showing the creative side of my personality. One of my closest and most trusted friends, Anna, encouraged me, showing how important a good friendship is.

Like everyone, I’ve had my struggles. I’ve found the companionship and friendship of my dogs has helped me greatly, this is a fitting tribute to them.

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