K.J. O'Donovan
Children's Book Author
K.J. O'Donovan
Children's Book Author
For now, Rae’s adventures are just a wag away—but her stories are almost ready to be shared.
K.J. O'Donovan writes children's fiction inspired by a real-life pugalier and regional Australian life. She is currently developing the Rae with an E series for young readers.
Rae with an E: The Adventures of a Real-Life Pugalier
The "Rae with an E" books bring to life the adventures of a real pugalier whose love of dressing up, socks, enthusiastic snoring, snack‑seeking missions, and gentle mischief inspired a new children's books series by K.J. O'Donovan.
Blending true moments with imaginative twists, these stories invite young readers into a world where every day experiences become big adventures.
Along the way, Rae discovers new friends, new places, and the joy of being uniquely herself — all wrapped in warmth, humour, and tail-wagging wonder.
The Rae with an E Series is currently being submitted for traditional publication.
THE BOOKS ARE CURRENTLY IN PROFESSIONAL SUBMISSION AND EDITORIAL STAGES • ADVENTURE AWAITS • MEET RAE THE PUGALIER • ADVENTURE AWAITS • MEET RAE THE PUGALIER •
Meet the Author
& her real-life Rae
K. J. O’Donovan is the storyteller behind the Rae with an E series, a collection of heartwarming tales inspired by her family’s real‑life companion — a spirited, costume‑loving, snack‑seeking Pugalier named Rae.
With a focus on friendship, empathy, and the everyday wonder found in small moments, K. J. crafts stories that celebrate Rae’s gentle mischief and big‑hearted charm.
Inspired by true moments and shaped with imaginative storytelling, she invites young readers into a world where curiosity leads the way and every wag of a tail hints at a new adventure waiting to unfold.
The Rae with an E series is currently being submitted for traditional publication and representation.
The story behind "Rae with an E"
Rae joined the family when she was eighteen months old, already carrying the name Rae — a perfect fit for her.
Her original owners were moving overseas and didn’t want her to face quarantine, so she came to her new home with her name, her quirks, and her big, loving heart.
But her name quickly became a story of its own.
Everywhere our family went when we first brought her home, people would ask, “What’s your dog’s name?” and the kids would proudly answer, “Rae!” Almost every time, someone would smile and say, “Oh, he’s a handsome boy!”
With a giggle, the kids would correct them:
“She’s a girl… Rae with an E!”
Before long, it became her signature introduction — a tiny mix‑up that turned into a big part of her charm.
Welcome to Rae's Town
Adelong is a small, sleepy village at the foot of the Snowy Mountains in regional NSW Australia, with a rich gold‑mining history.
The historic gold mine ruins sit around the Adelong Falls, where trees, hills, walking tracks, and bridges create a peaceful place for families to explore.
There is even a sculpture trail that starts from the main street and leads all the way to the falls and ruins.
This is where Rae first came to live after moving from Melbourne, and where she has continued to call home with her new family — the series author K. J. O’Donovan, her husband, son, and daughter. Rae quickly discovered that small towns have a big heart and that small walks can lead to big adventures.
Adelong is a warm and welcoming community, and a special spot where time seems to slow, keeping pace with the ripples of the creek
It’s the kind of place where young readers can wander and enjoy the simple magic of the mountains and the Adelong Falls if visiting the Snowy Mountains region.
The Adventures of Rae with an E.
The Rae with an E collection is the beginning of a growing literary world inspired by a real‑life pugalier with a whole lot of personality. The series includes rhyming picture books, Junior chapter books, and companion stories featuring Rae’s friends.
With additional titles already in development, readers can look forward to many more adventures in Rae’s warm and whimsical universe.
Rae with an E:
Rae The cheeky Pugalier
Complete Manuscript
- Rhyming Picture Book -
A playful, rhyming tale that follows Rae on a cheeky adventure through the historic town of Adelong.
With curiosity leading the way, Rae explores new sights, friendly faces, and the gentle mischief that makes her so lovable.
Rae with an E:
Nanna's Double Dog Disaster
Complete Manuscript
- Rhyming Picture Book -
When a simple visit from Nanna turns into a hilarious case of mistaken identity, Rae finds herself caught in a double‑dog mix‑up. This light‑hearted, rhyming story celebrates family, fun, and the chaos that only a cheeky pugalier can create.
Rae with an E :
The Adelong Adventure -
New beginnings and muddy paws
Complete Manuscript - In Editorial Development
- Junior Chapter Book -
Rae’s world changes when she moves from a city penthouse to the small country town of Adelong.
As she navigates new places, unexpected challenges, a rising flood, and the joy of meeting new friends, Rae discovers courage, belonging, and a touch of everyday magic.
Rae with an E:
Companion book
Boxer & Bloss
Complete Manuscript - In Editorial Development
- Junior Chapter book -
Inspired by a true story, this gentle companion book follows Boxer the loyal dog and Bloss the orphaned lamb he takes under his wing. Together, they show that friendship can grow in the most surprising places — and that family comes in all shapes and sizes.
Get in Touch
Have questions about the Rae with an E books or want to share a pugalier story? Use the form below to send your enquiry directly to the author at hello@kjodonovanauthor.com.