- 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
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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.
Please stop by Deanie’s new website:www.childrensbookswithlifelessons.com. You’ll find inspiring stories about real-life children there!
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:
Blog: http://www.childrensbookswithlifelessons.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeanieHDunne/
https://www.facebook.com/Memories-of-Sweetbrier-Farm-Easton-CT-1736497933252082/
Twitter: @DeanieHDunne
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanie-humphrys-dunne-682a5322/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/deaniedunne/?eq=Dean&etslf=6351
Thanks for stopping by to meet Deanie <3
Thank you, Marsha, for sharing Colleen’s spectacular review of my book. Also, I appreciate everyone’s lovely comments.
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Hi Colleen, This beautiful post is my choice to reblog on my site tomorrow. Thanks again for letting me share it.
Thank you Marsha for sharing me in your community. We all learn from each other and book reviews introduce others to authors they might not have met before. <3 Your kindness is much appreciated.
My apologies for leaving you and Marji’s name out of my lastest post about Facebook. I have changed that and included a link to your website as well.
Thank you so much, Marsha. You are a gem! <3
This is a story that moves my heart. Wonderful review.
Thanks, Viva. Deanie is one of those people you just love. ❤️
Pingback: Reading Links 5/23/17 – Where Genres Collide
I love the sound of this book. An inspiring read for children and adults alike. xxx
It is a sweet story that will motivate everyone to their best! ❤️
This books sounds wonderful, Colleen. A really lovely review!
Wow, what an incredible story! Most of the children I cared for with CP were too impaired to hold their heads up, much less sit astride a horse and grasp the reins. Deanie’s father must have devoted his life to her “rehabilitation,” something considered impossible for most with CP. An inspiring story and fantastic review, Colleen ❤️
Thanks, Tina. Deanie’s story is motivational and sweet. She is an excellent children’s author and an all around sweetheart. I enjoy her stories even though they are for kids. ❤️
We are kids at heart, Colleen ❤️
It’s the best way to be. 👼
A wonderful review, Colleen. What a heartwarming story!
Deanie is an amazing lady. This is a sweet story. ❤️
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
A terrific review by Colleen Chesebro for the new book by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne about her determination to overcome her physical disability by learning to ride horses. Head over and find out more about the inspiring My Life at Sweetbriar.. a life changed by horses. #recommended
Thanks for sharing Deanie’s sweet story. ❤️
Pleasure Colleen and a terrific review.. hugs xx
Thank you, Sally. I found you in my WP spam! That can’t be right! <3
It has been happening a few times lately.. perhaps they are trying to tell me something! Mind you I find all the best people in my spam folder from time to time so don’t feel too bad.. hugs
LOL! I was going to say that! 😀 I found Kevin in here too. <3
Excellent review, I ordered this book for my granddaughters.
That’s wonderful. It is a sweet story. The author is a gem, too! ❤️ Thanks for your support.
Looks like a wonderful story.
It was a sweet heartwarming tale of perseverance. I loved it. <3
Reblogged this on deanieblog and commented:
Thank you Colleen for this fantastic review. 🙂
Thank you, Colleen, for the fantastic review and compliments for my new book! You’re amazing and I so appreciate your unending support.
Always a pleasure to share great books! ❤️
Thank you, Colleen. I know authors everywhere appreciate you and your abundant talents.
Many thanks, Deanie. ☺️❤️
Reblogged this on Die Erste Eslarner Zeitung – Aus und über Eslarn, sowie die bayerisch-tschechische Region!.
It sounds like an amazing book.Thanks, Colleen.
Sweet story, Olga. Hugs. ❤️
Oh dear, so many books, so little time left to read them all. At times I wish I could be one dimensional, so there could be a chance of reading them all, but that train left the station too long ago
I know, Angie. I feel the same way. Good seeing you, friend. 😘❤️
It’s good to feel well enough to respond, Colleen. Unfortunately, at least for some people, it is temporary. I finally informed my family of my impending passing last week.I’m so exhausted it is good news for me, but hard to tell my kids this on Mother’s Day. <3
Oh, Angie. I’m sorry it has gotten so bad. I’m sending you big hugs and kisses. 😘❤️
Thank you, Colleen. Finding this tonight reminds me now to call my sister out there in the Springs. Haven’t touched base for a couple of weeks and it seems more important now than ever before. I’m so thankful I’ve been given this time to say “goodbye” and “I love you” to the people who mean the most to me. You are included in this list of people. I’ll be closing out my blog soon, but since most people, including myself, are able to find it since WP made some changes to things, it won’t really matter that much now. Love you, my friend.
I love you sweet lady. You have a heart of gold. We’ll meet some day and know each other immediately. I’ll be there always in your heart. Love you too, my friend. ❤️❤️❤️
I’ll be watching you and reading over your shoulder, Colleen. And what an adventure I’m on now — the ultimate train ride on the most exciting road of all. I’ve glimpsed it a few times, so I know a small bit of what is waiting. My hope lately is that you enter a shop in your area and recognize one of my sisters, both of whom live in the Springs or nearby (like Monument). Wouldn’t that be a gas?