Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

[Merits Anih]

[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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Siblings Donny and Mary Grace have very different reactions to change. While one child embraces new experiences with excitement and curiosity, the other struggles to adjust when life doesn't follow a predictable routine. Donny is the younger of the two siblings and has Down syndrome. Surprisingly, he adapts better to change when compared to his older sister, Mary Grace. When their perfect life at their home in Kansas was about to be disrupted because her parents were being sent on missionary duties to Africa, Mary Grace reacted negatively to the idea. Even though she and her brother would have to stay with their grandparents in California, she didn't want to start her world afresh in a new school or make new friends. However, the journey was not optional. Would Mary Grace end up liking the change of environment? Will she be able to adapt to school and make new friends? How will she be able to care for her little brother in their new environment? Find the answers to these questions when you read Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures by Catherine A. Pepe

Pepe captures the reality that children, even in the same family, can have very different innate responses to life's upheavals. While one child might dive right in, another may need patience and support to adapt at their own pace. Through the eyes of Donny and Mary Grace, we see both perspectives represented. I watched as these siblings leaned on each other through life's ups and downs, from playful antics with friends to navigating Donny's Down syndrome. Mary Grace's unwavering devotion to her brother and Donny's utter trust in his big sister inspire and touch the heart. The group of old women who help solve crimes also made this book precious to me. I would recommend this book not only to children but to senior citizens, too.

Another thing that endears this book to me is the way the teachers handled bullying. Both the bully and the bullied are victims because, at that young age, they do not choose to be bullies but are merely reacting to other factors in their lives. This story highlights themes of family, courage, change, and personal growth through the eyes of a young girl adjusting to a new home and life she didn't expect. Mary Grace discovers that sometimes the most unexpected turns in life's journey end up shaping us the most.

I could find nothing to dislike in Pepe's work. The storytelling is consistently thrilling yet thoughtful, moving seamlessly between tension and heartwarming family moments. The writing voice is confident and engaging, with carefully chosen words that come alive. The book was also perfectly edited. Because of the above reasons, I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
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[Ivan Kovic]

The review paints a compelling portrait of the Miller family and their journey of self-discovery. I like the - analysis of the book's themes and messages, which seem to be valuable for young readers.

[Victoria Ukamaka]

The portrayal of bullying and discipline in the book seems like an important aspect to explore for young readers and parents.

[Salome Ogani]

The fact that the book tackles bullying and discipline in a thoughtful and nuanced way is something that's worth applauding. The book seems like it will be a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to teach empathy and understanding to children.

[Richard Thomasalw]

The - analysis of the book's positive and uplifting message is something that's always needed in children's literature.
The book's portrayal of the Miller family's values and relationships seems like a refreshing and heartwarming aspect to explore.

[William Wrightmill]

The book's portrayal of the sibling bond between Mary Grace and Donny seems like it will be a heartwarming aspect to explore. The fact that the book is well edited is something that's always liked, as it ensures a smooth reading experience.

[Brian Adamss]

The book's portrayal of the sibling bond between Mary Grace and Donny seems like it will be a heartwarming and relatable aspect to explore.