Rhonda Buerkle displays three books from her popular “Woofy Toofy” series at Lykke Books in New Ulm. The local author’s children’s books, inspired by her daughter’s real-life adventures with a stuffed wolf, are available at the New Ulm bookstore and online retailers. (Photo by Amy Zents)

NEW ULM — Local author Rhonda Buerkle has completed her five-book “Woofy Toofy” children’s book series with the fifth and final book scheduled to be release this summer.

The series, published by North Star Press of St. Cloud, is based on real events from Buerkle’s family. Each book features a young girl named Ryley and her stuffed wolf, inspired by Buerkle’s daughter and the toy she still keeps at age 28.

“They’re all based on my daughter growing up and her favorite stuffed animal,” Buerkle said.

The books in the series are “Woofy Toofy,” “Woofy’s Big Adventure,” “Woofy at the Farm,” “Woofy at the Big Apple,” and “Woofy’s Camping Trip” will be released this summer.

Buerkle works with illustrator Lane Kennedy of St. Paul, the daughter of her college roommate. Kennedy was 17 when she illustrated the first book.

“It was just happenstance, and it’s meant to be,” Buerkle said.

Buerkle grew up in Gibbon. Her family still lives in the area, and she now lives in Glencoe.

She has built strong ties with local booksellers. Her books are carried at Lykke Books in New Ulm, which has become a hub for Minnesota authors since it opened in 2024.

Buerkle participated in the Southern Minnesota Author Fair on May 2, at Lykke Books along with nine other Minnesota writers. Ten authors gathered for meet-and-greets, book signings, storytime and a publishing Q&A panel.

“Listening to other authors’ methods only helps sharpen your craft,” Buerkle said.

The “Woofy Toofy” series is written for young readers and features colorful illustrations and simple language. The stories emphasize family, travel and gentle problem-solving.

Buerkle said the series began as a personal “love letter” to her children. She wanted stories that reflected real childhood experiences.

Lykke Books will host a release event for the final book this summer.

The longtime partnership with Lane Kennedy has been key to the series’ success. Kennedy’s bright, engaging illustrations bring the characters to life for early elementary readers.

The “Woofy Toofy” books are available in paperback at Lykke Books in New Ulm. They are also sold online through rhondabuerkle.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other retailers.

For more information about the series or upcoming events, visit rhondabuerkle.com.