THE STORY YOU NEED TO HEAR

Sometimes being different is your greatest strength.

A young woman author with long blonde hair, wearing a black blazer and ripped jeans, sitting on a gray cushion with a happy dog Ares that has a tan and black coat, wearing a bow tie, in her lap against a dark gray background.

This is a heartwarming tale about courage, resilience, and finding your place in the world. When my beloved dog Ares was diagnosed with cancer, he taught me that what makes you different is often what makes you beautiful. This is his story—and maybe yours too.

Baker & Taylor logo in white on a black background.
Blank white background with no objects or visible details.
Walmart logo in white with a snowflake design.
A white dog lying on a green lawn.

ARES AND THE BIG SPLASH

This book is for anyone who has ever felt a little out of place or been picked on for being different.

A story about being true to yourself, even when others don't quite understand. When challenges arise, it is often the things that make you unique that also help you through it.

Perfect for young readers who need to know:

  • Being different is a superpower, not a weakness

  • Courage comes in all shapes and sizes

  • Every challenge can become a triumph

  • Your unique gifts matter to the world

AVAILABLE NOW

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ARES AND THE BIG SPLASH

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AVAILABLE NOW ⎯ ARES AND THE BIG SPLASH ⎯

What Readers Are Saying

  • Xan Peldonia 

    “From the very first page, we are introduced to Ares—a joyful, spirited pup who finds happiness in the water. The emotional contrast between the community's judgment and Ares' inner peace makes the story not only touching but also deeply meaningful. The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, perfectly capturing Ares' happiness in the water and the mixed reactions of the animal community. Kids will be drawn to the playful scenes, the charming characters, and the gentle storytelling. This book is a heartfelt celebration of uniqueness and courage. It’s a perfect read for children and families looking to spark conversations about self-confidence, acceptance, and the importance of doing what makes you happy. Ares' story will leave a lasting impression—reminding every reader that being different is not only okay, it’s wonderful. I could see this book becoming a staple in many homes, elementary schools, and libraries.”

  • Angie Adrianzen <em> Deputy Sheriff, MDSO</em>

    “If you love dogs, rhymes, and stories with heart then this story is for you! One of the things I loved most is that the whole story rhymes! I really enjoy books that rhyme because they’re fun to read and they flow like a song. It shows that it is ok to be yourself and do what YOU enjoy no matter what others think. If you love dogs and books that rhyme with a positive message, I definitely recommend this one!”

  • Amanda M. Naldjieff Abreu, Esq. 

    “This heartwarming children’s book is a beautiful celebration of courage, individuality, and self-acceptance, told through the unforgettable journey of a brave and one-of-a-kind dog. With gentle storytelling and vibrant illustrations, it teaches young readers that being different is something to be embraced with pride. The message is both powerful and easy to understand, making it a perfect addition to any child’s bookshelf. The storytelling is both engaging and uplifting, making it a perfect bedtime read or classroom favorite. This book is a beautiful and touching tribute to Ares, whose strength and spirit continue to inspire all who know him. This book is a true gem—filled with heart, purpose, and a lesson that will stay with readers long after the final page.”

  • Josue Gomez <em> Police K9 Sergeant, SWEETWATER PD</em>

    “This heartwarming story about a misunderstood yet resilient dog beautifully teaches children about empathy, acceptance, and the true power of kindness. Through playful, sometimes clumsy efforts, the dog struggles to fit in but ultimately wins everyone's hearts with a selfless act. It serves as a touching reminder that our differences can become our greatest strengths. This is a lovely and uplifting read for young audiences.”

  • Maritza Haro Salgado <em> Attorney & Mom</em>

    “Ares and the Big Splash” is a beautiful reminder that staying true to yourself can lead to extraordinary acts of kindness. It teaches children that following your passion—no matter how different it may seem—can bring out hidden strengths and help those in need. A touching and inspiring lesson for young readers about courage, self‑belief, and being unapologetically you. Highly recommend as the perfect addition to your bedtime rotation-

LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR ARES
A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a black blazer with white trim, a white top, gold hoop earrings, a cross necklace, and multiple rings, standing against a dark background.

About the Author

Elizabeth  B.  Suarez  is  a  dedicated  and decorated  police  officer  residing  in Miami, Florida. With 13 years of service, she  has  spent  the  last  seven  years  as  a detective,  honing  her  skills  in  various specialized  units.  Elizabeth  holds advanced certificates in multiple disciplines including Advanced Hostage Negotiations, Crisis Intervention, Dignitary  Protection,  Internet  Crimes  Against  Children,  Technical  Surveillance  Countermeasures,  and Narcotics. Before embarking on her law enforcement career, Elizabeth attended Florida State University, where  she  earned  a  Bachelor  of  Science  degree  in  Criminology  and  a  minor  in  Psychology. 

Elizabeth currently shares her Miami home with her husband, David, their tabby cat Ziggy, and their beloved 12-year-old German Shepherd mix, Ares. Despite actively battling cancer, Ares remains an enthusiastic swimmer and runner who loves to play with toys, cuddle, and indulge in Papa John's pizza crust. When Elizabeth isn’t working, she loves to read, write, attend Pilates, and spend time with friends and family.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE, ONE BOOK AT A TIME

Little Purple Elephant

15% of every book sale supports
The Purple
Elephant

Named after Ares' favorite toy—the little purple elephant that got him through every surgery and chemotherapy session—this non-profit is dedicated to:

  • Supporting pet cancer research to help other beloved companions

  • Fighting animal homelessness through community outreach

  • Providing bullet proof vests for working police K9s in Miami


Because every animal deserves a voice, and every hero deserves protection.

Little Purple Elephant Corp. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It rely’s solely on donations, sponsors and book sales to provide lifesaving K9 equipment such as bullet & stab-proof vests, to working Law Enforcement dogs within Miami, FL

Aside from Elizabeth's undeniable passion for writing and for animals, her heart, soul and career lie within Law Enforcement. She has been in Law Enforcement for the last 13 years, with the last 7 years of her career spent as a Detective. She has been blessed to be a part of some very incredible and rewarding units and assignments, and is very proud to be amongst the minority of women in Law Enforcement. She takes great pride in serving her community and the residents within.

Elizabeth is incredibly proud of the men and women she serves beside daily, and the ability she's had to make even the smallest of differences. She is humbled and blessed to hold advanced certificates in multiple disciplines including Advanced Hostage Negotiations, Crisis Intervention, Dignitary Protection, Internet Crimes Against Children, Technical Surveillance Countermeasures, Sex Crimes, and Narcotics.

In her hope to blend her two worlds and passions, Elizabeth started a non-profit company in conjunction with the release of her first book. The non-profit is called ‘Little Purple Elephant,' and is named after Ares’ favorite toy - The little purple elephant toy that got him through every single one of his surgeries, and chemotherapy. 

The non-profit aims to give back approximately 15% of each book sold to animals in need, and aims to help provide every working police dog in Miami with a bullet proof vest.   

The voice for the voiceless, if you will... Little Purple Elephant hopes to make a difference in the lives of the animals that need just a little more avocation. 

Q&A

with the author

How did you get started writing for kids?

I’ve always loved to read ever since I was a little girl. I loved reading, and I loved being read to. There was something about the smell of a new book, the bright and vibrant illustrations, and the hidden messages within each book. When Ares got diagnosed with cancer, I channeled all of my sadness into something positive. I thought, “What would it be like to view this amazing dog, through the eyes of a child.” It was then that I decided I had to use Ares’ love for swimming to tell a tale of utilizing your God-given differences as what makes you beautifully unique.

What is the best piece of writing advice you've ever received?

I’ve benefited from so much great advice over the years. And I’m forever indebted to the people who’ve shared it. But there is one thing I like to keep in front of me, kind of my go-to quote, where I try to land with all my ideas. From Canadian Actor and Playwright Chris Humphreys . . . “Don't write what you know. Write what you love. That's what will keep you writing.” The true goal of all writing is to write what takes up the most space in your heart - and that, in my mind, says it all.

Do you do author visits or book readings?

Absolutely!! Author visits can fill a few minutes, an hour or a full day, and presentations can be customized to meet your needs. When you’re ready to chat about scheduling a visit, please contact me via email. I look forward to hearing from you!

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