The Wild Rumpus Bookstore in Minneapolis lives up to its name. Step inside and you’ve entered what could best be described as a “literary zoo.” Owner Collette and her itty-bitty dog, Trowser, greeted me for my book signing here — and so did a host of others, including such friendly critters as a grey cat named Sumo Mouse, a rooster named Olive, an African desert lizard named Spike and a pair of ferrets named Baby and Honey. In the back of the store, we were serenaded by chickens, cockatiels, parakeets and a dove named Mo. Wow. I also spotted two other tail-less cats, chinchillas, fish, geckos, a rat named Isabella and even a tarantula named Harry. The animals mingled with one another - and us two-leggers — easily and happily. If I omitted any critter, my apologies.

My informal quest on this national book tour has been to find as many different species to be photographed showing interest in my two books, “Happy Cat, Happy You” and “Happy Dog, Happy You.” A confident rooster named Olive and his hen pal named Pimento quickly strutted over to cluck at my books and pose for photos.

Of all the places I have visited so far, the Wild Rumpus Bookstore takes the prize for possessing the most - and the most diverse - store mascots. Bravo! This is a great bookstore that loves to cater to pet lovers and to young readers. Hope you stop by if you are visiting the Twin Cities because you will definitely be entertained. Now that’s what I call taking a walk on the wild side!