Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

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Nanin
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Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

Post by Nanin »

[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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Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures by Catherine A. Pepe is a book that was inspired by the author's brother, who had Down syndrome. This is a fictional novel about a family of four, Mr. and Mrs. Miller, and their two kids, Donny and Mary Grace. Donny was born with Down syndrome, and his parents chose to care for him. He loved penguins and going to the zoo with his family.

However, one day his parents got transferred to Kenya in Africa. To make matters worse, it was for two years. This meant Donny and Mary Grace were to live with their grandparents in California. Between changing schools and leaving friends behind, will the two kids adjust well?

What I loved most about the book is that the author created awareness of Down syndrome. She portrayed Donny just like any other kid with feelings, likes, and wants. I also loved how the author addressed bullying at school and how to go about it. This would be a great lesson for kids who read this book and go through similar situations.

Moreover, it is a simple book to understand with great lessons for both caregivers and children. It contains a few sketches of the characters, which is a plus for children. There was nothing I disliked about it. The book seemed professionally edited since I did not find any errors.

I give this book a rating of five out of five stars because it was an educative book. It was not only positive but also taught people not to judge a book by its cover. I especially appreciate how the author indicated that those who bully people are most likely people with underlying personal issues.

I would recommend that parents or guardians read the book to their children. It has excellent lessons for both parties. This book is suitable for children between the ages of 10 and 14. I would not discourage anyone from reading it.

******
Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
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Amy Luman
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Post by Amy Luman »

I have no experience with people with Down’s syndrome. I understand, however, that this causes a person to thrive on routine. If that’s true, this would have been an even bigger ordeal for Donny than for Mary Grace.
Joshua Kameta
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Post by Joshua Kameta »

The experience with one family member having some sort of disability scares me as it takes toll on parents time. I'm glad Donny and Mary discovered their likes early enough. I will read this piece someday.
Abdulsabur Aisha
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Post by Abdulsabur Aisha »

I have read this book and I must confess that I had an amazing experience reading it. I like the love, compassion, and ability to solve mysteries displayed in the book. Great review!
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Ben Madeley
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Post by Ben Madeley »

I think it's important that we have more books that highlight personal experiences of working with a raising children with disabilities. Nice review.
Nanin
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Post by Nanin »

Amy Luman wrote: 01 Feb 2023, 16:30 I have no experience with people with Down’s syndrome. I understand, however, that this causes a person to thrive on routine. If that’s true, this would have been an even bigger ordeal for Donny than for Mary Grace.
U would assume so. Thanks for the feedback.
Nanin
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Post by Nanin »

Cam Joshua wrote: 01 Feb 2023, 21:10 The experience with one family member having some sort of disability scares me as it takes toll on parents time. I'm glad Donny and Mary discovered their likes early enough. I will read this piece someday.
Glad you're interested.
Nanin
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Post by Nanin »

Abu_Aisha1 wrote: 06 Feb 2023, 23:47 I have read this book and I must confess that I had an amazing experience reading it. I like the love, compassion, and ability to solve mysteries displayed in the book. Great review!
Glad to hear you loved it. Thanks for commenting.
Nanin
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Post by Nanin »

Ben Madeley wrote: 23 Feb 2023, 07:24 I think it's important that we have more books that highlight personal experiences of working with a raising children with disabilities. Nice review.
I totally agree. I love the message. Thanks for commenting.
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