Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

[Okafor Prosper]

[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 is a heartwarming story that explores the challenges faced by siblings Donny and Mary Grace as they adjust to a new life in California after their parents are sent on a mission to Africa by the church. Written by Catherine Anna Pepe, this children's book is a beautiful tale of love, friendship, and determination, among other positive themes that children will learn from.

The story revolves around Donny, who has Down Syndrome, and his older sister, Mary Grace, as they navigate the difficulties of moving to a new state, starting a new school, and dealing with an unknown bully who sends threatening messages about Donny's condition.

The author does an excellent job of portraying the emotional turmoil that Mary Grace experiences while she tries to fit in and make new friends. One aspect of the book I like is how it tackles the issue of bullying in a highly effective manner. The author shows how Mary Grace uses her skills and intelligence to try to uncover the identity of the bully and protect her brother. This sends a strong message to young readers about the importance of standing up for oneself and others in the face of adversity. Also, I enjoyed how the characters in the story handled the issue, digging deep to get to the truth and ensuring appropriate punishments when necessary.

Another aspect of the book that I found particularly appealing was its focus on family values. The bond between Donny and Mary Grace is heartwarming, and the support they receive from their grandparents and the "Grandma Gang" is palpable throughout the story. The author also does an excellent job of showcasing the importance of community and friendship in times of need.

Overall, Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures is a beautifully written book that is both engaging and educational. I did not find any aspect of the book I did not like, and it was exceptionally edited. Therefore, I award a rating of five out of five. It is a must-read for children, especially those who are dealing with issues of bullying or who have siblings with special needs. This book displays the resilience and strength of the human spirit and is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers between the ages of five and eleven, and I will recommend it to them.

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Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
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