LISTEN TO OUR NEW SONG!
By Barchelle "Chelly" Bolger Wathen
Reviews
Shayla & Friends
This is a heart-warming story of a dog's journey from an orphanage where she was loved to a home in America where she found true love again. It is a sweet story and the book's theme and orphanage in Ukraine are dear to my heart.
I have met the author and her beloved Shayla in person while they were promoting this beautiful book and wonderful story. Shayla is meek and quiet, and absolutely gorgeous. The story of how Shayla was a desperate stray to her rescue and new life is awe-inspiring and a must read!
This book is a heartwarming and uplifting story of perseverance, faith and dedication. So many people from across the world join together to save and rescue those in need (orphans and dogs alike) amidst disruption and chaos of a country at war.
Shayla’s Adventure: What’s Across the Ocean?
Chelly Bolger Wathen takes us on an adventure with a child and his dog, reminding us all along the way that even when times are difficult, friendships and kindness will see us through. An enjoyable read!
Great book with heartwarming story. It is a must read for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the human-canine bond and the simple joys of childhood. My kids love this story!
This book is a delightful read to share with children. In addition to learning about Shayla, they will learn from her story about kindness and life consequences which sometimes includes ice cream. I gave this book to each of my great-nephews, and they really liked the story. Be sure to have some ice cream on hand for this read!
Shayla’s Adventure: Finding the Light in the Darkness
Your books are certainly very creative and magical! The way you have incorporated photography, art, and the written word is really something. I've never seen anything quite like it.
ChapterBreak.net
Author Interview:
Barchelle "Chelly" Borger Walthen
This article originally appeared on chapterbreak.net
Q: Who is your favorite character to write, and why is that person your favorite? If picking a favorite character would be like picking a favorite child, which character seems to be the most demanding of your attention and detail as a writer?
A: All of my stories are about our dog Shayla, a rescue from a Ukrainian orphanage. I love writing about her, as she inspires me to become a better person. Shayla is very loving, courageous, adventurous, and kind. She can reach children and adults to strive to become better and stronger, facing any adversity. I hope that I can be half the person my dog is.
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Q: Tell us what you enjoy most about writing.
A: I write books for all ages of children and young adults, which also transcends to adults and seniors. I like to use Shayla’s story (fictional and non-fictional) to inspire children with life lessons of love, friendship, and overcoming tough times. When Shayla meets children at events, they just love her, and I strive to write her story to inspire children and teens with what Shayla taught me.
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Q: Describe the book in 10 words or less for people just learning about it.
A: Ukrainian rescue dog inspires others to love
Q:Is there anything you would like people to take away from your book?
A: Value faith, friendship, hope, and live bravely
Q: What has been the toughest criticism you have received as an author? What has been the best compliment?
A: Criticism: Why care about a dog, especially a Ukrainian dog?
A: Compliment: from a child, “I love Shayla because she teaches me to be strong”
Q: To date, what is your favorite (or most difficult) chapter you have ever written?
A: “Shayla & Friends: Into the Light” chapter about facing a wildfire threatening the safety of the dogs’ home, and that some brave dogs do not survive (one of the dogs that does not survive is based on an orphanage dog that truly did not survive the war in Ukraine)
Q: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
A: Finding adventure with my dog Shayla – ziplining, kayaking, hiking in the mountains
Q: Did you get to pick your illustrator? How do you feel about illustrations in children’s books?
A: Initially no, my first editor chose the illustrator and she would not provide her contact information upon my request. Since then, we dumped that editor and now the illustrator is very important to convey unspoken thoughts and make a big impact.
Q: Do you have a special connection with your children’s book topic or characters?
A: The main character of my book series is our dog, Shayla. In my teen novel I write about our past dogs and rescue shelter dogs I have worked with. Nothing better than writing from true experience.
Q: What do you hope to teach or inspire in children reading your book?
A: Become your best self, open your heart to new experiences of love, be a good friend to others by looking at their heart, trust God.