Local Author Shannon Robeson Releases First Children’s Book: ‘Neo’s Big Ball Hunt’

Shannon Robeson has always dreamed of being a writer,

but she never imagined her debut book would be a heartwarming children’s story. With a lifelong love for storytelling, she initially pictured herself writing romance or even a sci-fi adventure. However, life took her on a different journey—one that included raising a family, caring for animals, and working on a farm. Now, she’s finally bringing her passion for writing to life with her first children’s book, Neo’s Big Ball Hunt.

     The story, inspired by real-life rescue animals on her farm, follows Neo, a playful Golden Retriever with a deep love for balls.

     When Neo suddenly realizes all his beloved balls are missing, he becomes sad—until his brother and best friend, Bingo, steps in to help. Together, they embark on an adventure to find them, learning the value of teamwork, perseverance, and friendship along the way.

     Robeson hopes the book will resonate with a broad audience, from early learners to elementary-aged children.

     “I don’t want to put an age on my books,” she says. “I want them to be stories that older siblings can read to younger ones—books that aren’t too simplified but can still be enjoyed by all.”

     The writing and publishing process for Neo’s Big Ball Hunt was a unique journey for Robeson, shaped by her daily farm routine.

      “I write when I’m done with my chores outside—feeding chickens and tossing balls for the pups. By then, it’s either too hot or too cold to stay outside, so I come in and write,” she explains.

      But writing wasn’t without its challenges. The biggest one? Neo himself! “He just has to play ball every moment of the day. And if I do get him settled, little Bingo starts tapping my legs, asking me to play.”

     The book’s characters and illustrations are all based on real-life animals from Robeson’s farm, including a friendly neighbor’s cow named Wilson, who visits daily. The authenticity of these characters adds a special charm that young readers are sure to connect with.

More than just an entertaining story, Robeson hopes her book encourages children to embrace their imagination. “When you read a story, you can use your imagination to build the world the characters live in. It’s not like a movie where you just sit and watch. And imagination is so important for our development and our health.”

     Her love of books traces back to childhood, when she treasured an old, musty hardcover filled with classic fairy tales. Now, she’s creating her own collection of stories for future generations.

     She’s already working on the next book in her series, Bingo and the Forbidden Forest, which follows Bingo on an adventure into a place he was warned not to go, leading to unexpected lessons and discoveries.

     For those eager to dive into The Adventures of Neo & Bingo, Neo’s Big Ball Hunt is available now on Amazon. Readers can also follow Shannon Robeson on Instagram (@neosbigadventures) for updates and a direct link to purchase her book.

     With her debut book now out in the world and more stories on the horizon, Robeson is embracing her long-held dream. “Of course, I want to continue this as a series. I do enjoy it,” she says. And with such a heartfelt start, young readers are sure to enjoy it too.