LitPick Review
Lexi, the family dog, loved spending time with her mom, dad, and the four children in her family. They would do so many fun things together, and they were all very close. Even when the children grew up and left the house, Lexi was still a big part of Mom and Dad’s life. After 15 years, Lexi grew old and went to dog heaven. This devastated Mom and Dad, and the house felt extremely empty without her there. So, the family decided to go to the local shelter and adopt a dog they named Lollipop. She loved to play all the time, and since both Mom and Dad were busy sometimes, they felt that Lollipop needed a friend. They did some research and did a long drive into the mountains to go look at a dog they thought might be a good fit for the family. That dog’s name was Truffles, but unfortunately, she was not only extremely shy, but she was also scared of everything. Yet, Mom and Dad saw such potential in Truffles that they adopted her. Did Truffles finally relax enough to get over her shyness and fears? Did she get along with everyone, including Lollipop?
Opinion:
I truly enjoyed this story for a few reasons. I felt the light touch on losing Lexi to dog heaven was expertly done and didn’t harp too much on the sadness and grief. It teaches children that loss of a close, loved family animal happens from time to time, and you are to remember them in loving memory. I liked how Paul Yantus quickly transitioned in that the family wanted to love another dog again, and he wrote in his storyline that the family went to the local shelter to rescue a dog looking for their forever home. I feel this too was written well, suggesting to children that rescuing an animal is one way they can help their community and the dog in need.
Another well-written point for children to learn from was the fact that when the family took Truffles home, they knew she was extremely shy and had plenty of fears. That didn’t stop them from trying to provide her a new loving and comfortable home for her to make her own. I love that the author presented children the fact that it’s okay to have fears and be shy, and it’s okay to take your time getting comfortable in a new environment or situation. This allows children to see that if Truffles eventually got over her shyness and insecurities, they too can overcome theirs.
The illustrations that were provided by Omayra Michael could be found on every page of this delightful children’s book. The pictures were full-page and done in pleasantly inviting colors that will draw the readers deeper into the story. Omayra Michael is a Children’s Book Illustrator, Character Designer, and Amazon KDP Artist. She specializes in bringing children’s stories to life through vibrant illustrations and captivating designs.
Overall, Truffles & Lollipop Unlikely Friends is the perfect story to read to the child in your life or have them practice reading out loud. It has a wonderful storyline children can learn from and well-developed, lovable characters that children will surely fall in love with as they read this story. Plus, the lessons offered are wonderful ones that can promote further discussion after reading this story. It comes highly recommended!
