About
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Nancy Collander’s creative writing spark was kindled at Ohio Dominican College where she earned her Bachelor of Arts. Her lifetime with animals frames the way she sees the world. Dogs are her teachers, providing her a unique outlook on life and amplifying her wry sense of humor. A lifetime of dog adoption and rescue provides the framework for Nancy’s first book, Through Their Eyes; Reflections on life, love, loss and learning. Twenty-seven years on a small farm in Central Ohio led to Short Notes from a Small Farm, a series of short stories about a city girl’s life in the country. Her short story, Foal Watch, placed first in the Westerville, Ohio, “Celebrate the Arts Writing Contest” in 2021. Nancy now resides in Michigan.
Featured Work
Through Their Eyes: Reflections on joy, loss, and learning
Fourteen dogs. Fourteen life-changing lessons. One unforgettable memoir.
Nancy had always loved dogs, beginning with her childhood pets Muffin and Zipper. But as an adult she realized dogs had come to define her whole world. It started with Müsta, a Labrador retriever puppy that she and her husband, Kevin, welcomed early in their marriage. Then, a chance encounter with a wretched, abandoned mutt opened their hearts to the joy of rescue and adoption, of loving those cast aside.
Each dog thereafter entered Nancy’s life with a purpose. All were rescues: mostly mutts, a few purebreds, some young and some near the end of life. And each had something specific to give. More than loyal friends and steadfast companions, dogs became Nancy’s greatest teachers, allowing her to confront personal failures and professional challenges.
This motley cast of characters and the lessons they impart are a testament to the meaning of lifetime commitment, the power of determination, and love and resilience in the face of loss. It all comes to life through the stories of compassionate Müsta; silly Sammi and his laidback sidekick Bear; Nancy’s soulmate, Red; quirky BooBear; king Rosko; and all the rest.
Told with humor and unflinching emotion, Through Their Eyes is a memoir of overriding joy, inevitable heartbreak, self-discovery, and simple wisdom shared without words.
Other Works
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Through Their Eyes: reflections on life, love, loss, and learning
2025
