PIPER MORGAN JOINS THE CIRCUS by Stephanie Faris #childrensbook & MY LIFE AT SWEETBRIER by Deanie Dunne

In this charming new chapter book series, eight-year-old Piper Morgan is adjusting to a new home and all the new places and faces she meets along the way, as she and her mom look for the perfect place to plant their feet.

When Piper Morgan and her mom have to move, Piper is sad to leave her friends behind, but excited for the new adventures coming her way. Her mom is looking for the perfect place for her and Piper to settle down, and dives into a series of odd jobs.

Mom’s first job? An assistant to the head of the Big Top Circus. And Piper is excited to learn she will be a part of The Little Explorers, a group made up of the circus workers’ kids. They may be small in size, but they play a big part in the circus, as they kick-off the big elephant routine in the show.

But during Piper’s debut as a Little Explorer, her high kicks and pointed toes don’t go quite as planned—and after causing a dance disaster, she has to prove to everyone—especially queen of the Little Explorers, Lexie—that she belongs in the spotlight.

And, I was truly surprised when I read the acknowledgements. Stephanie Faris encouraged a big smile to shape my face!! Thank you!!

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Cathrina's Review:
What a truly delightful book for young children, and I learned a few things too!! At the end of each chapter, Stephanie Faris gives her readers a few fairground facts.

Piper's mom gets a job with the circus. Piper is both sad and happy. Sad to leave her friends, and happy for a new adventure. Piper thrives in the circus. She loves the animals especially Ella the elephant. You will read about Piper's mishaps, calamities, and how they help her learn and grow. And endearing new circus friends is the cherry on the Big Top.

What if you grew up on a horse farm and your single passion was to become a champion horseback rider? The problem is, you were born with a disability. Doctors tell your parents you’ll never walk, let alone ride. What will happen next? What does her dad do that changes her life? Will a failed racehorse and a handicapped girl become a winning team? This is the author’s true story of her journey. Even if Deanie prevails, will she find exactly the right horse to help her win?

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Cathrina's Review:

My Life at Sweetbrier is about a young girl diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The doctors told her parents she would never walk. Little did the doctors know about Deanie's father's determination, and he told the doctor where he could go with that opinion. I like that line in the book. My Life at Sweetbrier is filled with Love, 

Determination, Strength, and Perseverance. A loving family's purpose of helping their baby to overcome her obstacles and reach for the stars. Which she did!!! She not only walked, but she learned to ride horses. And Deanie became a Champion!! I loved the sheer fortitude and "never give up attitude" of Deanie and her wonderful family.

The part about the fire in the barn and her father risking his life to save all the horses was quite heartfelt. I was saddened by the loss of two horses. Through many trials and problems with Deanie's legs and walking, it never seemed to daunt her as she grew, it simply made her stronger.

These are a couple of books I've read by incredible authors. What have you been reading?