Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

[Bethany Kroeger]

[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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Parents and children will love the adventures of the Miller siblings, Donny and Mary Grace, in Donny and Mary Grace’s California Adventures! This book is A Grandma Gang Mystery written by Catherine A. Pepe. It focuses on the importance of love and respect between all the characters and consists of multiple scenarios in which they must work together to resolve conflicts. There is also a bit of a mystery that makes it more appealing for older children to read. Donny is a five-year-old boy with Down syndrome who is happy, friendly, and a joy to his family and those who know him. His sister is Mary Grace, a mature and responsible ten-year-old who adores her little brother. The story begins with Mr. and Mrs. Miller telling the children that they will be going to Africa for two years on a mission trip and leaving them with their grandparents in California. Mary Grace is less than thrilled with the idea of leaving her parents, school, and friends, while Donny responds in his typical joyful manner and is excited to go on this new adventure! Mary Grace puts on a brave face for Donny but soon realizes it is worth giving California a shot.

First off, I thought it was intriguing how the author had a brother with Down syndrome named Donny and that she modeled Donny in the story after her brother. She created the character Mary Grace, who I assume is similar to her, to give the reader an example of how to treat individuals with disabilities. Her point of view is refreshing and could help readers understand and empathize with those who are different.

I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that focuses so intently on compassion and mercy in children, especially when those showing mercy are the ones who are being treated wrong. I mean, wow! Mary Grace handles the mystery in the story, a bullying issue, with kindness and maturity. She is the one who gets hurt, yet she shows compassion and forgives those who have wronged her. She is also creative and resourceful when it comes to problem-solving. The adults in the story are phenomenal. They are attentive, patient, and caring. The parents, grandparents, and teachers take the time to listen and figure out an effective solution if there’s a problem. Imagine how much better the world would be if all adults responded to children this way.

The Grandma Gang is a fun addition to the story. The three women in the gang once solved a mystery regarding multiple burglaries at a 7-Eleven. They help Mary Grace find the courage to handle her bullying troubles, make her feel like she is a part of something special, and cause her to not focus on missing Kansas as much.

I did not dislike anything about this book and must give it 5 out of 5 stars. Not only did I not dislike anything about it, but it is well-written and appears professionally edited. In addition, the lessons it teaches are spectacular. I recommend this to children ages eight and up. The number of mature situations and discussions in the book might be more difficult for a younger child to understand. It would also be a good book for a parent to read with their child. I cannot wait to read the other books in the series!

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Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
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[Amy Luman]

I really like hoe you helped to draw the parallel between Mary Grace and the author. I think that it would be fascinating to have unchecked a great adventure.