- Title: My Life at Sweetbrier: A Life Changed by Horses
- Author: Deanie Humphrys-Dunne
- File Size: 1264 KB
- Print Length: 142 Pages
- Publisher: Monday Creek Publishing
- Publication Date: May 12, 2017
- Sold By: Amazon Digital Services LLC
- Language: English
- ASIN: B0711P67DM
- ISBN-10: 069287898X
- ISBN-13: 978-0692878989
- Formats: Paperback and Kindle
- Goodreads
- Genres: Children’s literature, Autobiographical*I was given an advanced reader’s copy of this book by the author for review purposes*
IN THE AUTHOR’S WORDS:
MY RECOMMENDATION:
Do you love horses and stories filled with courage and inspiration? Young, Deanie Humphreys was born a preemie with the debilitating disease called cerebral palsy. At birth, a portion of her brain was damaged. The result was that Deanie had difficulty walking. Now, for most kids, this would be enough to limit their physical activities for life. But Deanie’s father made a huge decision that changed her life. He said, “I’m going to teach you to ride, and you’ll be fine.”
That single decision changed Deanie’s life forever. Deanie took her first steps at four years old. With the grit and determination of someone much older than herself, she set out to prove the doctors wrong. And, let me tell you. Deanie’s journey is filled with the hopes and joys that only reaching for your dreams and succeeding can bring. It was the ability to ride a horse that gave Deanie the freedom and normality she craved.
My Life at Sweetbrier: A Life Changed by Horses, is Deanie’s story based on memories and photos from her childhood. The book is written for children of all ages and filled with the kind of stories that everyone can easily relate to. The underlying theme is clear – perseverance pays off – never give up on your dreams.
I laughed and cried with the young Deanie, and I felt her pain at not being like the other kids. This is the kind of book you want to read and discuss with your children, talking about empathy for those who are different; while at the same time, encouraging children to not just accept their lot in life. The author writes:
Also, at the back of the book, the author provides a quiz for the reader to pull from their memory the finer points of the story. Answers are provided giving an additional learning opportunity.
I loved this sweet story of courage in the face of adversity. It was a poignant story of perseverance and motivation to never give up on your dreams. Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is a real champion and motivator. Her journey will inspire you to reach for the stars.
MY RATING:
Character Believability: 5
Flow and Pace: 5
Reader Engagement: 5
Reader Enrichment: 5
Reader Enjoyment: 5
Overall Rate: 5 out of 5 stars
Flow and Pace: 5
Reader Engagement: 5
Reader Enrichment: 5
Reader Enjoyment: 5
Overall Rate: 5 out of 5 stars
Author, Deanie Humphreys-Dunne, and Peach: Reserve Champions, Mrs. Foster’s Farm Photo Courtesy of Bob Moseder Photography
About the Author
Here’s where you can find Deanie:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeanieHDunne/
Twitter: @DeanieHDunne
Thanks for stopping by to meet Deanie 
Just wanted to pop over and say many congratulations on your new book which sounds perfect for parents and teachers who want to encourage children to battle on against difficulties in their lives. I'd have loved using this in my classroom :)
ReplyDeleteSpecial Teaching at Pempi’s Palace
Thank you, I think the story will encourage young readers to try new things and it will build their self esteem.
ReplyDeleteI didn't realize you had to overcome a disability. Learning to ride a horse is a challenge, much less with a handicap. (Spoken by a woman who never mastered the horse riding skill!)
ReplyDeleteHi Elizabeth, thank you so much for stopping by. Yes, I did. This book is dedicated to my family, especially my dad, because he's responsible for the whole journey. :) He changed everything for me and I"m eternally grateful.
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