Beth Janelle lives in New Hampshire with her hiking dog, Nina. In the last seven years, the two of them have hiked all forty-eight of the highest mountains in New Hampshire. When Beth isn't climbing mountains, she is an artist, wife, and a mother to three young children.
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: Watching Nina grow into a strong and adventurous dog made me realize that I needed to tell her story!
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: Write about something that excites you, and the words and story will come so easily.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: My favorite adult novel is The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah (but really, anything by Kristin Hannah). My favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree.
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: The main character is my real-life dog, Nina!
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: The middle, when it starts coming together but still has some cleaning up to do.
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A: A little of both. I think reading many books and different styles of writing helps develop your skill.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: “Why would you spend even one day of your life doing something you don’t love?”
Parks and Rec (surprisingly)
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: Yes, but nothing is in the works currently.
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: Dr. Seuss. His imagination and stories are so unique. He spent years developing each story!
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A: Adult novels: The Great Alone, The Women, The Four Winds, Black Cake, Homegoing, and The Wedding People.
Children’s books: The Giving Tree, I’ll Teach My Dog 100 Words, The Night Before Christmas, Little Blue Truck, and Click, Clack, Moo.
Learn more about Beth Janelle and her new children's book, Nina Climbs a Mountain, here. Coming soon on November 11, 2025!