An elderly French Canadian named Noelie often drew criticism from the Dartmouth, MA, townsfolk because she kept a herd of white goats in her yard. Neighbors complained that the animals were noisy and unruly and that the house was unkempt.

The author, Jane Bregoli, and her children befriended the old woman and found that she was gentle and kind. When Bregoli's daughter asked her to paint a picture of the Goat Lady, the artist painted a series of portraits and eventually exhibited them in a local art museum.

The paintings helped others in the community to look past Noelie's mismatched clothes and odd ways and recognize her humble goodness.

Jane Bregoli is a Fitzhenry and Whiteside author.

Jane Bregoli's profile page

"This gentle, straightforward narrative is told from the point of view of one of the children and is ideal for reading aloud. The book is illustrated with sharp color reproductions of Bregoli's original portraits done in a soft painterly style. A true story about intergenerational relationships and tolerance that's perfect for sharing."
— School Library Journal

"The Goat Lady tells the true story of a loving, kind, and generous woman who not only helped her neighbors, but also Heifer International. By giving us her extra baby goats, she helped us 'pass on the gift' to people in need. Heifer International has helped millions of people in over 70 countries over the years thanks to people like the Goat Lady who found a way to help those less fortunate than herself."
— Jim De Vries, Heifer International

— Jim De Vries, Heifer International