https://colleenchesebro.com/2017/05/19/colleens-book-reviews-my-life-at-sweet-briar-a-life-changed-by-horses-by-author-deanie-humphrys-dunne/#comment-42724
- 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:
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?
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:
“…it is wise to use your challenges to motivate you toward your goals because when you’ve conquered one obstacle, you’ve gained the confidence to tackle your next challenge.”
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
Author, Deanie Humphreys-Dunne, and Peach: Reserve Champions, Mrs. Foster’s Farm Photo Courtesy of Bob Moseder Photography
About the Author
Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is an award-winning children’s author who loves writing captivating books that teach children life lessons. She has 5 books published: Tails of Sweetbrier, Charlie the Horse, Charlene the Star, Charlene the Star and Hattie’s Heroes, and Charlene the Star and Bentley Bulldog.
My tales of Sweetbrier details Deanie’s childhood on a horse farm. What if your one desire was to become a champion equestrian? But your parents were told you’d never walk. What happens next? This true story will inspire your child to never give up on his/her dreams.
Deanie’s other books are told by the farm animals. They’re humorous stories you child will love. Recently, Deanie was featured on a
WTNH.Com/CTStyle television program.
Awards for Tails of Sweetbrier:
CLIPPA finalist (2014)
Feathered Quill Book Awards silver medal (2014)
Purple Dragonfly Book Award: (2015)
Reader’s Favorite Silver Medal: (2016)
Author Award from the Authorsshow.com (2015)
Here’s where you can find Deanie:
Thanks for stopping by to meet Deanie 
