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COLUMBUS—When Foothills Humane Society rescued a one-eyed, one-eared pig named Jack, some might think that might be the end of the story. Thanks to children’s author Bethany Snipes and illustrator Shaun Sinnet, Jack’s story was just beginning to be told. Their new children’s book, “The Rescue of One-Eyed Jack: A True Tale,” now shares that journey.

“I was told there was a stray pig that had been wandering in a neighborhood when some dogs attacked him,” Snipes says. “The attack injured him and resulted in the loss of an ear and eye. He then ended up in the care of Foothills Humane Society, and that’s how he came to my attention.”

Snipes, who lives in Weaverville, volunteered at FHS when she resided in Tryon. She came across a post on social media about Jack, which made her consider contacting Frog Song Farm Sanctuary, a non-profit in Hodges, S.C. 

Snipes put FHS in touch with Frog Song, and they agreed to take Jack. Soon after, FHS transported Jack to his new home in Hodges, where he lives with several buddies. 

After helping facilitate Jack’s rescue, something about his story stuck with Snipes, an aspiring writer and licensed clinical social worker. She saw numerous parallels in Jack’s journey that young children could relate to, especially those who have been dealing with disabilities, foster care, or displacement. 

While she had aspired to write self-help books in the past, she also wanted to write books for young readers. 

“Every time I sat down to write, I kept thinking of ideas for children’s books,” said Snipes. 

Snipes would go on to write and self-publish “The Rescue of One-Eyed Jack” and hire artist Shaun Sinnett to illustrate it. The book features FHS and Frog Song prominently in retelling Jack’s story in a colorful, entertaining, and child-friendly way. She dedicated the book to her daughter, Izzy, and is already working on her next children’s book. 

Snipes said, “I’d like to thank Shaun for amazingly illustrating the book. And thank Foothills and Frog Song and all the animal sanctuaries and shelters that do so much good and bring communities together saving animals.”

“The Rescue of One-Eyed Jack: A True Tale” is available from Amazon, and Snipes will be doing book signings in the future.