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August 28, 2025
For Lori Herschkowitz-Skala, kindness isn’t just a theme in her books—it’s a way of life. A beloved teacher in Sayreville, NJ for over 30 years, Lori has spent her career encouraging children to believe they’re never too young to make a difference. Her latest children’s book, The Hair Tie, beautifully illustrates that message, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a community in unexpected and powerful ways.
Lori grew up with two dreams: to become a teacher and to write children’s books. While she fulfilled her dream of becoming a teacher early in her life, her journey to becoming an author took a longer path. After overcoming a breast cancer diagnosis, Lori made it her mission to pay forward the incredible support she received throughout her recovery. That mission took off when she was featured on the TV show Lucky Dog, where she adopted Rosie, a rescue dog who became her certified therapy companion.
Together, Lori and Rosie visited hospitals and schools, bringing comfort and joy to countless lives. When Rosie was paralyzed in an accident and could no longer be certified due to medical complications, Lori found a new way to give back — through storytelling. Her first book, The Road to Rosie: From Ruff to Rescue, was self-published in 2023, with all proceeds going to animal rescue. The following year, Lori published The Hair Tie, with all proceeds to fight pediatric cancer.
The idea for The Hair Tie came during a run through Lori’s hometown. She found a hair tie on the street just when she needed one, and her imagination took off. What if that hair tie had helped others before her? What if it continued to help others after?
The book centers around a young girl who learns about hair donation while waiting at a salon. After losing her favorite black hair tie, it begins a journey through her community, helping others in small but meaningful ways. Lori hopes the story will raise awareness among children about the power of hair donation and random acts of kindness.
One “full-circle” moment came from Maddie, the daughter of friend and fellow teacher Christine. After reading The Hair Tie, Maddie decided to donate her long, well-cared-for hair to Wigs For Kids. While mailing the donation, she spotted a black hair tie on the floor of the post office — just like in the book. Her mom snapped a photo and sent it to Lori, a moment that felt like magic.
Lori’s passion for animal rescue stems from her lifelong love of animals and her desire to advocate for shelter pets. Rosie’s story has helped educate others about rescue dogs, leading to many adoptions over the years.
Pediatric cancer is another cause close to Lori’s heart. Having battled cancer herself and supported her husband through stage 3 colon cancer (he is now cancer-free), Lori understands the emotional toll the disease takes. She’s committed to bringing joy and hope to children and families facing similar battles.
As a cancer thriver, Lori often counsels others. Her advice? “Picture yourself cancer-free and living your best life. Focus on the things you’ll do again—working, exercising, eating your favorite foods. Your darkest times can lead to your best ones.” She credits her cancer journey with leading her to Rosie and the stories that followed.
What’s Next?
While Lori isn’t sure if a third book is on the horizon, many have encouraged her to write about her new rescue dog, Pretzel. For now, she’s busy with author visits, vendor events, and sharing her message of hope and kindness.
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