Stars: ****
Joyful Paw Prints (2008)
Summary: A true, inspirational story about a dachshund whose life started out just like any other dog walking on all four paws until a spinal injury leaves her paralyzed. Frankie is custom-fitted for a wheelchair and learns to keep on rolling. Her zest for life will have you cheering and she will give you hope that all things are possible. Frankie will leave an everlasting and loving paw print on your heart. A book for all ages to teach overcoming challenges and also compassion for the physically challenged. - from Joyful Paws
Joyful Paw Prints (2010)
Summary: Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog keeps rolling along in her doggie wheelchair. This paralyzed dachshund's unabashed healing, exuberant spirit, and spunky personality is a blessed gift to everyone she befriends. In this true, inspirational story, Frankie tells how she became a registered therapy dog and shares her visits to Libby's House, a senior facility where many residents have Alzheimer's or dementia. Frankie teaches us that patience, listening, and understanding opens our hearts to what matters most - love. - from Joyful Paws
I'm a sucker for true dog stories and having one in picture book format is a nice change. Frankie's story is not sad. It's a story of hope and perseverance. I loved the story. The books are about the average length of a non-fiction picture book (48 is average, these books are 49 pages.)
I'm not however, a big fan of the illustrations which I find to often be a problem with self-published books. I do however think these two books are good enough to be picked up by a publishing company and given more professional illustrations. The illustrations however are better than some I've seen. I do think Frankie is well done, (see cover of first book.)
In addition to these books, Frankie's story has been featured in other books, magazines and even on radio, podcasts and TV. Even Frankie himself has won an award!
The website, Joyful Paws, has tons of information on Frankie, dachshunds, handicapped pets and more. Teachers and groups within a 120 mile radius of Elkhart Lake, WI can have Barbara and Frankie come visit in person while the rest of the world can see her via Skype. She has a large list of resources and an articles section with stories of other animals. There's even a list you can subscribe to to receive a paw-print signed photo of the real Frankie, word search, coloring page, updates on Frankie and articles from Barbara.
Links of Interest: Joyful Paws,
Other Reviews: The Friendly Book Nook, Lesa's Book Critiques,
Buy Frankie: The Walk 'N Roll Dog
at amazon.com and support SMS Book ReviewsBuy The Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House
at amazon.com and support SMS Book Reviews *I received a copy of each of these books for free in exchange for a review. All reviews are honest and are not affected by how I acquired the book.
