New York City during the holidays is pure magic, and one therapy dog is showing kids the true fairytale that is a NYC Christmas, just as Home Alone 2 and Miracle on 34th Street did for generations before.
Meet Koa, a Rhodesian Ridgeback beloved across Manhattan for his gentle spirit and big heart. Every Christmas morning, Koa and his owner, Andy Honda, MD, take a cherished walk down Fifth Avenue—marveling at the glittering window displays before stopping at the iconic Rockefeller Center tree.
That annual walk, filled with twinkling lights and childlike wonder, became the spark for Andy's newest picture book, Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City—the third in her heartwarming series inspired by her real-life adventures with Koa.
Honda’s idea was simple but deeply meaningful: to let children experience New York City’s holiday landmarks and traditions through the eyes (and paws) of a dog who brings comfort and joy to kids year-round. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade to snowy romps in Central Park, cheering for the Rockettes, exploring Bryant Park’s Winter Village, and taking in The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, Koa’s Christmas captures everything we love about the season, through wonder, warmth, and wagging tails.
But Koa’s story extends beyond the pages. As a certified therapy dog, he spends his holidays visiting children with special needs in schools and hospitals, helping them create paw-printed Christmas cards and spreading joy wherever he goes. Through his kindness, Honda hopes young readers will be inspired to see the holidays not just as a time of celebration, but as a chance to give back.
“If I could combine Koa’s heart with New York City’s holiday whimsy,” says Honda, “kids everywhere could feel something truly special—from those who already know Koa personally to those discovering him for the first time.”
Andy and Koa are planning appearances this season, complete with Koa’s signature holiday bow tie, to share their story and invite families to see NYC’s Christmas magic through a new lens: one filled with friendship, love, and a touch of furry wonder.
About the Book
Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City invites readers to join Koa—the real-life Rhodesian Ridgeback with a heart for kids—as he explores the magic of the holidays in New York City. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade to the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, Koa’s adventures shimmer with festive cheer, friendship, and holiday spirit.
About the Author
Andy Honda, MD, is a passionate storyteller dedicated to crafting engaging children’s books that capture the magic of exploration. Originally from Hawaii, she brings a spirit of warmth, curiosity, and aloha to everything she writes. Inspired by her adventures with Koa, Honda’s stories blend real-life kindness with imagination, teaching kids about empathy, curiosity, and the joy of giving.
Availability:'Koa’s Bryant Park Scavenger Hunt' is now available at Amazon, Barnes&Noble, and Koa's Ruff Life.
For more information, review copies, or interview requests, please contact:
Andy Honda, MD
