Local Author Event: Mary Thompson and her dog Coco Mia
Come meet Madison author Mary Thompson and her adorable pup Coco Mia! Mary’s children’s book Adventures of Coco Mia – LOST was inspired by the true story of her dog getting into a car accident and then was lost for several days. The story revolves around people in the Madison and Sun Prairie area who came together both in-person and online to help find Coco Mia. The extraordinary outpouring of love and community support led her to write her first book that centers around this beautiful story of love and new friendships.
About the author: Mary Thompson grew up on Maple Shade Farm in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin—a place filled with stories, hard work, and five generations of family memories. From an early age, she learned that adventure can be found in both ordinary days and extraordinary journeys. That spirit carried her to Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and later across the ocean to France, where a year abroad sparked her lifelong love of discovery.
Over the years, Mary has worn many hats—classroom teacher, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction program manager, and an HR executive in financial services. Yet through it all, she carried with her a love of storytelling. Now, she is sharing those stories, bringing them to life on the page for children and families to enjoy.
Mary is also very busy in the Rotary Club of Madison, whose mission is to connect, grow, and serve. Through her Rotary connections, Mary found the talented illustrator, digital marketing specialist, and publicist who helped bring The Adventures of Coco Mia—LOST into the world. Their collaboration is a reminder that real-life friendships and community support are at the heart of every great adventure.