When a tiny dog named Bootsie arrives at the dog park, the other dogs immediately question her ability to run, jump, and keep up with their energetic games. Her small size and timid nature make them skeptical. But just as they begin to doubt her, Gaeleek, a friendly and confident Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, steps forward. With a warm smile and a gentle heart, Gaeleek decides to show Bootsie, and the others, that true strength isn’t about size or speed—it’s about heart, determination, and the willingness to try. Through their playful adventures, they all learn a valuable lesson in courage, friendship, and acceptance.
After a successful 38-year career in corporate America, Robert Mackey is proving that life only gets better with time. Combining passion, logic, and personal experience, he has excelled in all areas of marketing, branding, merchandising, and product development. Mackey is also the inventor of Knock Knock Norman™, the world’s first interactive knock-knock joke-telling doll.
Now, as an author, he introduces Gaeleek, Mender of Hearts, the first book in a heartfelt series inspired by his bond with a special Wheaten Terrier rescue. The charming stories of Gaeleek and her diverse group of friends—dogs of all shapes and sizes—will captivate both children and parents, offering kindly wisdom through the eyes of a lovable new character who will capture hearts everywhere.
From an early age, Barbara Badolato, LCSW, has been passionate about art. Whether creating greeting cards, portraits, or landscapes, she strives to capture the beauty and essence of life.
As a clinical social worker, Barbara encourages both parents and children to use creative outlets like books, drawing, and journaling to address challenges and navigate difficult emotions.
When the opportunity arose to illustrate Gaeleek, Mender of Hearts, Barbara was thrilled. She believes that through Gaeleek’s adventures, children will not only enjoy his problem-solving abilities but also be inspired by his playful spirit and positive attitude.
Gaeleek, Mender of Hearts is a sweet story that will spark delight in the hearts and minds of children and adults alike. Thoughtful and relatable, Gaeleek sheds light on the experiences children so often face in the classroom, on the playground, and beyond. Written through the eyes of adorable pups, the storyline engages readers, and the playful illustrations support teachable moments that encourage children to reflect upon the meaning of friendship, empathy, diversity, and fun. The story sparked text to self/world connections and conversation in my six year old, and will be quite useful to the work I do as a therapist, teacher and parent. Gaeleek, Mender of Hearts leaves the reader with feelings that transcend the written word, and the message that kindness never goes out of style.
I am truly heartened by the beautiful simplicity of Gaeleek, Mender of Hearts and the poignant message it conveys. As a lifelong educator, I have witnessed firsthand the power and importance of reading and storytelling with young learners. The charming dogs in this story tap into children’s natural attraction to animal characters. The delightful watercolor illustrations invite the readers and listeners in, drawing our attention to the interplay between these darling dogs. Parents and teachers alike can utilize this touchstone book to invite discussion on topics related to problem solving, feelings, decision making and the ability we each possess to make a difference. The magical power of kindness truly resonates in small moments throughout this story. I can’t think of a more important message to convey to those in our care and hearts.
As author and illustrator respectively, Robert Mackey and Barbara Badolato made my heart sing! I am a seventy-eight year old grandmother who realizes that while this is a children’s book, it’s reach is far greater!
Robert Mackey’s book made me realize how any tender heart, even if it belongs to a dog named Gaeleek, can encourage children and the adult who reads this book to be the same.
After this read, I am personally reminded how it takes only one to make a difference. It starts with one. So I tell myself or the child I’ve read to, “Be That ONE!” Your single act of kindness throws out roots which will encourage you and others.
And so it is for Bootsie, a pint-sized Yorkie. Gaeleek’s natural kind act of inclusion motivated her to repeat the good deed she had experienced from Gaeleek to a new Chihuahua named Lucy.
My recommendation is that you read “ Gaeleek, Mender of Hearts,” because the song you will sing is “Changing the World Around Me Will Change Myself, Too.” Oh, if only the world was comprised of more tender hearted Wheaton Terriers like Gaeleek!! To that I say, “BE ONE!”
Mother, Grandmother, Elementary Education Teacher
