Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

[Savina Visintin]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures" by Catherine A. Pepe.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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When Mary Grace and Donny's parents move to Kenya, their two children go to live with their grandparents in California. Donny is the happier of the two, and although he has Down syndrome, he is an optimistic boy. On the other hand, Mary Grace is not thrilled and would prefer that her parents not leave. However, once Mary Grace arrives in California, she enjoys discovering how her Grandma Cathy and the other members of the Grandma Gang solved a mystery. She does not know that she will soon need the help of the Grandma Gang for something much more serious — a threat. What will happen to Donny and Mary Grace? Find it out in Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures by Catherine A. Pepe.

I enjoyed reading Pepe's beautiful book because something happens on almost every page. In the beginning, Donny gets lost in the zoo, and you have to find out where he is gone; then, you have to solve the mystery with the Grandma Gang; finally, Mary Grace has to discover who bullies her and her brother at school. All these adventures will ensure that young readers will never get bored while reading.

Also, I liked that this book does not just tell a good story but deals with issues that young readers may face in their lives. Perhaps, some of them have a sibling with Down syndrome, and this book can give them helpful insights into how to deal with them (Mary Grace's kindness is touching). Also, the author talks about bullying at school, and the way Mary Grace and the adults handle the situation is exemplary. I am convinced that this offers food for thought to our young readers.

Lastly, I add that Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures is well-edited, and I did not find many errors during my reading.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars because I do not think it has any negative side. The story is delightful, and I am sure young readers will enjoy it. It is to them that I recommend this book, and I also recommend discussing the most important issues with an adult. Overall, this is a reading our young people will remember for a long time.

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Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
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[Hazel Mae Bagarinao]

This book is for children and adults alike. The author poured so many life lessons to be learned by the readers. For example, repentance of what Tifanny did with Mary Grace, and also the transformation of Justin after the bullying is resolved. I enjoyed the story as well as your review, Savina!