Friday, June 4, 2021

#BookReview - Everybody Loves Grace by Katy McQuaid


Everybody Loves Grace: An Amazing True Story of How Grace Brings Love to Everyone She Meets, Book 1

By: Katy McQuaid
Illustrated by: Susan LaValley
Publisher: Everybody Loves Grace Publishing
Publication Date: October 2018
ISBN: 978-1948512008
Reviewed by: Holly Connors
Review Date: June 2, 2021
Meet Grace, a beautiful Finnish Lapphund, who has a special ability to share her love of life with everyone she meets. Children will fall in love with this wonderful dog as they follow along with her on various adventures.
Grace grew up on a farm where she was able to run and explore her surroundings. The children on the farm would play with her, rubbing her belly and playing fetch. When Grace grew up, she had two litters of puppies. It was hard work, and even harder to see each puppy leave as they were adopted. One day, however, it was decided that the farm had too many dogs and Grace would need to find a new home.
The sweet dog is adopted by a woman she calls "Mommy," who lives in a city. The sights and sounds of the city are new to Grace but rather than being afraid, she loves all the activity and commotion. Once in her new home, Grace meets Mommy's other dog Tinto, who Grace seems to realize is older and unable to play rough games. In fact, Mommy quickly realizes that Grace has a special talent for knowing how to behave around other animals and people - she is very gentle and intuitive to their needs.
Grace soon settles into her new life. She loves going for long walks with Mommy, getting special treats when they go out, and meeting all sorts of nice people. Grace meets people living on the streets, and slowly approaches the ones who look like they need a little extra love. She also likes to spend time with those in a hospital, or anywhere she finds someone who is down on their luck or simply in need of affection. Grace just seems to know who needs some extra attention and happily obliges - she is a perfect example of giving unconditional love to those around her.
Everybody Loves Grace, is the first book in the "Everybody Loves Grace" series (currently there are five books). While there's not a lot of action in the story, the author does a good job of introducing readers to her very special dog and setting up the cast of characters. By the end of the book, the reader will want to meet Grace and get a hug from her. The book is perfect for young readers who are ready to advance from simple 32-page picture books to an easy reading chapter book. The font is large and there are numerous lovely color pictures to enhance the reading experience. Children who love animals, and particularly dogs, will likely get hooked on the series. At the end of the story is a sneak peek at book two - a trip to the Grand Canyon. The short preview is enough to get your young reader looking for it as soon as they finish reading this one.
Quill says: It's nice to have a wholesome, engaging story about unconditional love and the special dog who shares it with everyone she meets. Kudos to the author for introducing us to her dog Grace.
For more information on Everybody Loves Grace: An Amazing True Story of How Grace Brings Love to Everyone She Meets, Book 1, please visit the book's website at: www.everybodylovesgrace.com

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