Birdie & Harlow

Life, Loss, and Loving My Dog So Much I Didn't Want Kids (...Until I Did)

The funny and poignant story of one woman's wonderfully codependent relationship with her dog - and what he taught her about chosen family and the reward of motherhood.

This touching dog memoir, Birdie & Harlow is the story of a baby and a dog. But motherhood is never quite that simple. In Taylor Wolfe's case, it's a long, zigzagging and winding road.

Meant to be a last-minute anniversary gift for her then boyfriend (and now husband), the highly-energetic and loud-mouthed Vizsla puppy named Harlow turns out to be the best snap decision twenty-year-old Taylor ever makes - and the beginning of the most epic friendship she ever has. As Wolfe's resistance to 9-5's and traditional adulthood grows, Harlow becomes the perfect companion for her eccentricities in a world that thrives on conformity. Wolfe's twenties - full of pitfalls and surprises, sad days and silver linings - led her to the realization that life is too short to spend your days in a crate (or a cubicle), that parks are meant to be enjoyed, and most importantly, she wants to be a mom. But really, isn't she one already?

A charming and touching memoir for dog lovers, Birdie & Harlow is a tribute to the many expressions of modern motherhood, to both human and fur babies alike. Taylor's hilarious and uplifting story reminds all of us that life will surprise you and that families should come in every shape and size.

What happens when the 'trainer-baby' turns out to be the best teacher you'll ever have?

Don't miss your chance to see author Taylor Wolfe as part of the 2026 AVID Series & the Des Moines Book Festival on Saturday, May 2 at 7:00PM at the Franklin Event Center!