Benny’s Big Heart: A Feel-Good Playlist for All Ages
Moments in a Therapy Dog's Day
Hi friends,
Lately, I haven’t been strumming the ukulele as much—between prepping for the launch of Benny’s Big Heart: A Therapy Dog Spreads Kindness and nursing my hand after a cortisone shot, creativity has looked a little different. But it hasn’t disappeared.
Instead, it’s shown up in quiet moments, in slow reflection, and in a new kind of project—one that blends storytelling, music, and comfort in a simple, soulful way.
I’m thrilled to share that Benny’s Big Heart—my newest picture book inspired by a real therapy dog here in Bowling Green, Ohio—is officially releasing the first week of April!
To celebrate, I created something special:
A feel-good playlist inspired by Benny’s story.
This music follows Benny’s day as he brings comfort to kids at the library, calms college students, and spends time with seniors in need of connection and comfort at the hospital.
Benny’s Big Heart: The Playlist
I created this playlist to follow Benny’s day and mood—starting with playful, heartwarming tunes for his morning library visit, shifting to calm and uplifting tracks for his afternoon on a college campus, and ending with soothing, nostalgic songs for his evening visits to the hospital
You’ll hear ukulele favorites, acoustic gems, and some beautiful covers that feel like a warm hug.
Listen on Spotify:
Watch Ukulele Play Alongs on YouTube.
The Journey Through Music
Morning at the Library (with the kids)
“You’ve Got a Friend in Me” – Randy Newman
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
“Count On Me” – Bruno Mars
“Upside Down” – Jack Johnson
Afternoon on Campus (with the college students)
“Better Together” – Jack Johnson
“Rainbow” – Kacey Musgraves
“Keep Your Head Up” – Andy Grammer
“Rise Up” – Andra Day
Evening at the Hospital (with the seniors)
“Lean On Me” – Bill Withers
“You Are My Sunshine” – Elizabeth Mitchell
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Kina Grannis
“What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong
Benny’s Big Heart is a story about kindness, connection, and the many ways we can all make a difference—just like Benny does every day.
Thank you for being part of this creative journey. I’ll be sharing more about the book’s release, launch week fun, and how you can help spread the word soon! Follow me on my Facebook page for more updates!
Until then, I hope this playlist brings a smile to your day. Feel free to listen to the songs on the Spotify playlist or play along with the ukulele versions!
With love,
Susan