Family Ties: Second Chance by Sandra J. Gerencher

Hello, everyone!  Post number two of the day (yay, me!), and what do you know, we have a book review!  This one is definitely a great read for all ages.  A heart-warming story for this special time of year....or any time for that matter.  Let's get right done to business, shall we?  Today's book of choice is....

Second Chance:

How Adoption Saved a Boy with Autism & His Shelter Dog

by

Sandra J. Gerencher

Meet Chance.  He is the current "roommate" of Ruffles at the animal shelter.  That's right, Chance is a dog.  As it turns out, he's not just any dog either.  He has been chosen by a new "mommy" for a forever home, her home.  Along with a cast of other rescued souls, his new Mommy shares her endless love with her young son, Ryan.  Ryan is a special child, apart from the fact that he has Autism.  Ryan's special factor lies in how he came to be with his current family.  You see, Ryan and Chance are very much alike.  They both have had to adjust to new surroundings; both have had several "mothers" throughout their lives.  Above all else, their common bond lies in the fact that they were both....adopted.  Follow along with Chance as he learns the ins and outs of his new domain, discovers the amazing connection amongst his new family, and finally learns the true meaning of a forever home.  A touching story for readers of all ages, and an eye opening look at new ways to open our hearts.

I must say that I was thoroughly surprised by this one!  I did not anticipate the narrator being Chance, but it definitely worked for the story.  How cute is it to see a book from a dog's perspective? (Oh, I forgot, you probably haven't read it yet...but trust me, it is definitely an experience.) Knowing that this "tail" (pun INtended) is based on true life events makes it all the more memorable.  Another interesting aspect (in my humble opinion) is the fact that the human characters take a backseat to the animals throughout most of the story.  You meet P.J., Little Rascal, and Shelby (or as I like to call them the "Pom Squad") (yes, they are Pomeranians) throughout the course of Chance's thoughts.  My favorite scene, although so hard to pick, was when young Ryan explains adoption to Chance.  Due to his special abilities, Ryan is able to communicate with his furry pals better than most, and so this conversation is especially heart-warming.  He explains that their new mommy made "the unselfish decision to adopt" and that this means they are "loved forever".  Now how can you truly compete with a message like that?  (WARNING:  Have a tissue handy, just in case you get weepy eyed....it's not said, just heart-breakingly sincere and beautiful.) (Oh, one last note, a portion of the proceeds for each book sold go to the Humane Society....a very fitting and noble cause, if I do say so myself.)

Review copy access courtesy of Nicole at Tribute Books!  (Thank you!) You can see their other titles online or check them out on Twitter for news and updates!

COMMENT CREATOR
Adoption is a tall order for many.  It is an undertaking that requires a lifelong commitment from both parties...the adopter and the adoptee.  Let's take a look at this process of love and share our own stories from this topic.  Have you ever adopted someone (whether furry friend or fellow person)? 

I myself have 2 dogs (of my several) that were adopted from the local shelter.  Britney, a chow/lab/shepherd mix (so loveable and cute!), came to her new forever home as a puppy, but my other little one, Winston (daschund), was already an older gent.  Needless to say they are both well loved, happy, and healthy little pups (hey, no matter how old they may get, they are still PUPS!)...even if they do perhaps get a few too many treats now and again (what can I say, I love to spoil them).

Until next time....happy reading!