The first title from Friendly City Books, Stretch Like Scarlet is a picture book for children up to age 5 featuring Scarlet the beagle. With a playful rhyme perfect for reading aloud, Scarlet’s antics will inspire you and your child to act out each page. 5% of the profits from sales of this book are donated to People Animals Love, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC.

Emily Liner is the founder of Friendly City Books, an independent bookstore and press in Columbus, Mississippi. Stretch Like Scarlet is her first book, which she was inspired to create during the pandemic while quarantining with her trusty companion Scarlet the beagle. She previously worked in politics and the private sector, and she is a graduate of Georgetown University, the University of North Carolina, and the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science.

“There are few joys in life for families that are as wonderful as having a fun-loving and good-natured pet. Stretch Like Scarlet is the perfect portrayal of a dog that spreads affection through every roll, catch, and crawl. Emily's adventurous story and John's gorgeous illustrations will have your children moving with Scarlet as she twists and shakes her way through her daily routine.”

— Alex Beene, author of Lessons from a Southern Mother, The Journey of the Paper Heart, and Born on Broadway