They Wrote a Picture Book to Encourage Bipartisanship

Ellie Gottheimer and Larra Mullin have authored a children’s picture book designed to encourage bipartisanship, according to a July 22, 2026, report from The New York Times. The book uses a narrative featuring dogs working together to illustrate the value of cooperation across political divides.

The authors established their personal connection through their fathers, who both served in Congress. This shared background in political environments informed the decision to create a literary tool aimed at teaching cooperation to a younger audience.

Bipartisanship Themes in Children’s Literature

The publication focuses on the concept of bipartisanship by substituting political actors with dogs. By using animal characters to model collaborative behavior, Gottheimer and Mullin aim to make the complex idea of political compromise accessible to children.

The New York Times Arts section notes that the book serves as a case for bipartisanship, framing the ability to work with others who hold different views as a necessary skill. The narrative centers on the dogs overcoming differences to achieve a common goal.

Author Background and Political Context

The project is rooted in the authors’ unique proximity to the U.S. legislative process. Because Gottheimer and Mullin grew up with fathers in Congress, they have a direct perspective on the friction and potential for cooperation inherent in government operations.

This specific family history is the primary driver behind the book’s thesis. The authors are leveraging their personal histories to argue that collaboration is possible even when the parties involved come from opposing sides of the political aisle.