Heartwarming tale of family, pets and laughter comes to life in ‘Kalimae and the Stinky Socks’
FA playful puppy, a close-knit family and one very memorable pair of socks are at the center of a new children’s book created right here in Folsom.
Local residents Mark and Shannon Anaya have released their debut children’s book,Kalimae and the Stinky Socks, a lighthearted, beautifully illustrated story inspired by everyday life with their beloved puppy, Kali Mae.
The book follows the joyful adventures of Kali Mae as she settles into her new home and becomes part of her family’s daily routine. Along the way, young readers are treated to playful mischief, gentle lessons about love and belonging, and plenty of laughs sparked by one family member’s famously stinky socks — a running gag that has already proven to be a hit with early readers.
Set against the warmth of family life, the story weaves in personal touches drawn directly from the Anayas’ home. Mark appears in the book as a master chef and enthusiastic gold panner, nods to his real-life passions that add authenticity and charm to the story. The result is a tale that feels both imaginative and familiar, making it easy for children and parents alike to see their own families reflected in its pages.
The idea for the book grew organically from the couple’s experiences with Kali Mae, whose playful personality has even earned her a following of more than 8,200 fans on TikTok. What began as a collection of funny, everyday moments soon evolved into a story the Anayas felt was worth sharing beyond their own household.
“Writing this book with my wife Shannon was inspired by our own puppy Kali Mae and the funny, everyday moments she brings into our home,” Mark Anaya said. “We wanted to create something that captures the magic of pet ownership and makes kids laugh while feeling connected to the characters.”
Designed for bedtime reading, classroom story time, or gifting to young dog lovers,Kalimae and the Stinky Socksblends humor with heart, offering gentle themes of family, friendship and the simple joys that come with welcoming a furry companion into the home.
The book is now available in paperback and Kindle eBook formats through Amazon. Readers can search for the title directly or visit the Amazon link here to learn more.
As first-time children’s book authors, the Anayas say they hope their debut story resonates with families throughout Folsom and beyond, especially those who know the laughter, love and occasional chaos that pets bring into everyday life.
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