What is a better message to teach a young pup other than to follow your dreams and never give up yourself?

In this brand new children’s book, by Cranston native, Marc Bochner he shines a light on doing just that.

Bochner was born and raised in Cranston. He went to Stone Hill Elementary, Western Hills Middle School, Cranston West and then onto URI for his bachelors in kinesiology and his doctorate in physical therapy.

Bochner has already written eight books on self-defense and fitness which are available on Amazon.

He is the owner of Bochner’s Realistic Self-Defense and Fitness Center on Dyer Avenue in Cranston.

While he mostly writes non-fiction, he took a turn at writing something completely out of his comfort zone.

“I enjoy being creative. Most of the books and videos I have created have been instructional in either fitness or self-defense. This was a way for me to write a book and be creative in a different way.

I wrote the book 12 years ago but didn’t have anyone to work on the pictures. But, with the internet I was able to outsource the pictures and complete the manuscript,” said Bochner.

Bochner actually found an illustrator in the Ukraine and was able to offer them the work.

The message he wants to relay to children is never give up on a dream.

“As adults we often forget what it is like to be a child and the power of believing that what we want in life is achievable. We are taught to follow a standard model of go to school, get good grades, go to college, and find a stable job – but this isn’t for everyone,” Bochner explained.

He believes that it’s okay to go off the traditional path in life.

“The book at its core is to create the life that you want, the one that you are passionate about, and the one that makes you happy. When you believe in yourself, write down your goals, and work towards them you can achieve them,” he said.

Bochner has done several readings around the state to many rave reviews from parents and business owners.

“’Pug Learns to Believe’ is a fabulous and important story to be shared with children and adults. Like Pug, I think everyone just needs a special someone who believes in them to help them realize that with hard work, dedication, and goals set, they can do anything they set their heart to doing.  As adults, our impact on children can be life changing and this story is a true testament to just what that impact can inspire,” said Tracie Amaral, owner of Fab-YOU-Us Family Fun Center, in North Providence.

Bochner is offering free readings to any elementary school in Cranston. To schedule a reading with him, email him at marcbochner1@gmail.com.