Review of Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures

[Anamika Satheesh]

[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 wholesome book that revolves around two children, Mary Grace and Donny, who are sent to live with their grandparents in California after their parents move to Africa for a missionary assignment lasting two years. Donny has Downs syndrome, and Mary Grace takes it upon herself to be the best sister to him. The author of the book has a brother named Donny, who also had Downs syndrome. Therefore, the story is inspired by her own life experiences.

The story is full of wholesome incidents. It shows both ups and downs in the lives of these two kids. While these are not super serious incidents, they are perfect for a children's novel. Mary Grace hates that she and her brother must move to California. She does not want to leave Kansas, but she eventually learns to stay strong for her brother as well as herself.

The book is pretty interesting and simple. The story has some valuable lessons that kids can learn. It also sheds light on the effects of bullying and portrays how it should be handled by adults, which is why I think even adults have something to learn from these characters. While the depiction may not be accurate if we compare it to how it goes in real life, it does send the message that bullying should not be tolerated in any form. After all, it's a story for children.

The characters are so amiable. The kids and the adults in the book are such wholesome people. There is also a tinge of suspense halfway through the book when they try to figure out who the bully is. The language used is simple and perfect for children, and the book is well-edited with no errors.

I must admit that the relationship between Mary Grace and Donny reminded me of my relationship with my brother. I was also moved by the author's dedication to the novel. It is evident in the author's note that the book is very special to her. I would recommend it to children. It's a simple read that deserves 5 out of 5 stars.

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Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
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