“This was such a special treat! I heard SO MUCH about Ingrid last night at dinner from my usually tight-lipped kiddo!” –Brandi, Mother of Auggie S.J. ‘36

For 15 years, Lower School students have enjoyed the opportunity to meet the authors and illustrators of their favorite books on the Park Slope campus. These visits ignite the imagination in students and not only get them excited about reading a certain book, but also nurture a growing love of reading and curiosity about the world. 

On Thursday, October 23, first and second grade students enjoyed an especially memorable visit from children’s author Aria Mia Loberti and her service dog, Ingrid, the star of her book I Am Ingrid. In the story, Ingrid is described as a dog who knows she’s fabulous, never seen without her string of pearls. The book, beautifully illustrated by Vivienne To, introduces young readers to the world of guide dogs, explaining what they do, how they work with humans, and includes a nonfiction section about guide dogs, the spectrum of vision, and photos of the real Ingrid donning her pearl necklace. Each student took home a copy of the book, signed by Loberti and Ingrid’s paw print “signature.”

Lower School librarian Kristen Robb P’24, ’26 prepared her Grades 1 and 2 classes for this unique author visit not only by reading the book to students, but also by discussing what a service animal is and how important they can be in the lives of differently-abled people. “The kids were really interested in Aria and Ingrid’s story, particularly how much training Ingrid had to go through to become a guide dog. During the visit, Aria also read the book, assuring the children that this was indeed Ingrid’s true ‘origin story,’ while Ingrid calmly rested by her feet.” 

The students were fascinated by how well-trained and smart Ingrid was and were delighted when Ingrid demonstrated some instructional commands Loberti made such as turning right or left and stopping at a line. Loberti also explained to the students how when service dogs like Ingrid wear their harness, they are working as a guide dog and it is important not to disturb, interact, or distract them. “Ingrid’s job guiding Aria.” Robb explained, “Keeping Aria safe is very important and Ingrid takes it seriously. But, when her harness comes off, Ingrid is ‘off-duty’ and behaves like any other pet dog.” Loberti demonstrated this by removing Ingrid’s harness and when she did, her body language transformed. “Ingrid playfully leaped in the air and ran toward Aria when she told her that our chef made her some grilled chicken!” 

Robb added, “The students were captivated by Aria’s book as well as the presence of a real-life service dog. They were attentive, asked excellent questions, and their curiosity and enthusiasm didn’t fade for a moment. This event really shined a light on the important role service animals play in the lives of so many people, all while sparking enthusiasm, joy, and wonder in the students.”