Books. Furry, feathered, and finned friendships. And more..

At Bayles and Bruce, our mantra is simple yet profound: “Learn, live, love, read.” We believe in the transformative power of storytelling, encouraging readers of all ages to embark on a journey of lifelong learning, vibrant living, boundless love, and the joy of reading.

Books by Alysen Bayles are available through Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million, Amazon, and Indie bookstores, including ABC Books (www.shopABCbooks.com). Cambridge and Clyde received a 2023 Story Monsters Seal of Approval for Early Reader Fiction and Cultural Diversity.

Inspired by Bruce

Bruce, the yellow lab with the iconic red scarf, has been a source of inspiration and comfort to author Alysen Bayles and many others.

Bayles and Bruce is a tribute to Alysen’s beloved granddog, Bruce, and her late grandparents, Allison and Betty Bayles. Their spirits infuse every page, creating stories that resonate with warmth, compassion, and life’s timeless wisdom.

The Collection






Cambridge and Clyde

Cambridge loves cupcakes. Her dog, Clyde, also loves cupcakes, especially banana cupcakes.

Clyde came from the pound and did not behave when he first came home. He ate everything in sight and jumped everywhere, even on the counters. His nickname is Countertop Clyde.

Clyde doesn’t jump on the counters anymore. Cambridge’s mom wears a robe at work and is called “Your Honor.” Cambridge sometimes goes to work with her mom. Cambridge has a good friend, Sasha.

20 pages

Published November 10, 2023

A portion of the proceeds from Cambridge and Clyde will be donatedto Safe and Sober in Springfield, MO.

Silly Sam From Galapagos Land

Silly Sam from Galapagos Land

Ella Cabella loved her cat, Sam, but Sam needed a second name.

Then one day it happened: her cat became known as Silly Sam. Ella Cabella and Silly Sam talked and walked and spent time in the sand.

Their home was a special place known as Galapagos Land.

22 pages

Published April 29, 2022

 Winston

Loosely based on Alysen’s family dog who was taken in after being abused, the book captures the power of unconditional love.

Winston is a dog unlike most dogs. Instead of chasing bunnies, they are his friends.

Winston loves to spend time with Sally, the person who took him in, and his best friend, Bossy Bunny.

22 pages

Published November 30, 2020

In progress: Weekly activities, books, articles, and more.

Author Alysen Bayles

 Meet Alysen

Alysen is on a mission to bring joy, laughter, and valuable life lessons to readers. Formerly a seasoned litigator, Alysen found solace and inspiration in the world of children’s literature, channeling her love for animals into heartwarming tales, including Winston, Silly Sam from Galapagos Land, and Cambridge and Clyde.

Alysen continues to write books, including a series based on the perspective of her granddog, Bruce. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). Alysen has been featured on Briggs on Books, PR From The Heart (Episode #192), and Sticky Lawyers-Stories From Lawyers Who Stand Out (Episode 39, Sticky Lawyer Storytime: From Litigation to ADR to Children’s Literature).

Alysen’s Journey  

After more than two decades in the courtroom, Alysen transitioned to dispute resolution in 2020. She pours her experience into creating stories, workshops, and activities that entertain and inspire.