Adele Myers & Chipper

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Adele Myers and I'm the author of The Tobacco Wives, my debut novel about a young seamstress in 1946 North Carolina who uncovers dangerous truths about Big Tobacco. The cute little guy next to me in this photo is my sidekick Chipper. We believe is about 8 years old. When my husband, son, and I adopted him from a kill shelter in Tennessee, he was believed to be two years old. He's a Chiweenie, a Chihuahua and Dachshund mix, and a southern transplant, just like me, living in Brooklyn, NY.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We call Chipper our Velcro dog. He has to be right next to one of us at all times, and if given the choice, he hangs out with me. He's a momma's boy. He had a tough life before coming to live with us, so I don't blame him for wanting to stay close.

What's brewing?

Latte from my favorite local coffee shop, Konditori in Park Slope, Brooklyn. It's a Swedish Espresso Bar where I spent many hours writing in the pre-COVID days.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

Chipper came with his name, which we quite like. Sometimes we call him Chip, Chippie, and occasionally Cujo when he gets overprotective.

Does Chipper do more to help or hinder your writing?

When I'm writing or editing, Chipper sits right by my side. He's an excellent co-editor. When I'm on a Zoom call ... totally different story. He likes to be in on the conversation, which is a bit of a hindrance.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Squeaky toy. [photo left]

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Postman and neighbors, any noise in the hallway outside our apartment.

Who is Chipper's best pet-pal?

Maeves.

What is Chipper's best quality?

He loves his people fiercely.

If Chipper could change one thing about Brooklynites, what would it be?

He'd like them to clear the street when he goes out for his walks. He wants the whole block to himself.

Visit Adele Myers's website.

--Marshal Zeringue