Brittany Petish is a Marietta-based children’s book author and illustrator whose stories are rooted in real-life encounters with animals and the healing power of love and loss. She began writing after the passing of her beloved dog, Annabelle, a life-changing experience that led her to the Blue Ridge Mountains. There, she met “Sally,” a wounded deer who became the inspiration for her debut book, Sally the Brave.
By day, Brittany works in government communications, leading teams of designers, animators, and illustrators on projects for the CDC, NIH, and energy clients. She has also volunteered with special needs children for 18 years, a passion that deeply informs her compassionate, heart-centered storytelling.
Brittany self-publishes and digitally illustrates each of her books, beginning with a personal narrative before bringing it to life through art. Her growing True Heart Tales series, which now houses five titles, celebrates resilience, kindness, and meaningful connection.
In less than a year, the series has earned international recognition. Sally the Brave received silver and bronze medals in the international Feathered Quill Book Awards, was shortlisted for the Chanticleer International Book Awards’ Little Peeps category and was named a Finalist in the 2025 Wishing Shelf Book Awards in the United Kingdom.
Beyond her own stories, Brittany partners with wildlife rehabilitation centers, conservation organizations, therapy farms, and permanent animal care facilities to share authentic stories while giving back to the animals and communities that inspire her work.
Visit truehearttales.com to view books, find author events, and learn more about partnerships.