LISTEN TO OUR NEW SONG!
By Barchelle "Chelly" Bolger Wathen
“Shayla’s Adventure: What’s Across the Ocean?”
This is a wonderful story about friendship, acceptance and love. As an Educator/former teacher/parent, I highly recommend this compelling story for children. During troubled times, there is hope and love.
Jana T.
Author 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!
Renata J.
Absolutely loved the story. What a great message of love and friendship. Sure hope the author plans to write more books.
Daniel DeGoede, Author
“Shayla & Friends: Into the Light”
One of the most heartwarming stories I’ve read this year. The journey of Shayla and the people she meets at the Ranch is full of hope and faith. It’s a powerful reminder that God’s light can reach even the darkest corners of our lives. If you love stories about rescue, healing, and finding home, you’ll absolutely adore this one
Dario N.
Shayla stole my heart immediately. Her journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how painful your past is, there is light ahead.
A rescue story that will stay with you long after the last page. Came for the cute dog on the cover, stayed for the profound message of redemption. Subtle, heartfelt Christian themes without feeling preachy. I laughed, I cried, I immediately ordered copies for friends. 10/10
Daniel A.
The novel’s blend of spiritual insight, danger, and emotional growth makes it an inspiring and memorable read.
Lily S.
Found this gem through my book club! It’s more than just a dog story; it’s a deep exploration of belonging and purpose. Shayla’s courage in the face of fires and wolves is inspiring for readers of all ages.
Alexander H.
This is an exceptional story of courage and transformation. Shayla’s journey is full of challenges, but also brimming with moments of hope and connection. Wathen’s storytelling shines as she explores trauma, healing, and community with sincerity and nuance. The emotional arc is both touching and engaging, making this a standout novel for readers
Savannah P.
“Shayla’s Adventure: Finding the Light in the Darkness”
Great inspirational book for readers of all ages. It’s a beautiful story of courage, bravery and friendship. Refreshing and sweet with beautiful illustrations. A true testimony of faith and a book that will capture the hearts of children. Loved it!!
Mary Y.
This book is simply wonderful. Following Shayla and Ashok as they both search for 'forever families' is incredibly touching. The themes of love, faith, and friendship resonate with readers of all ages. A must-read!
I came across this book through my book club, and it truly revived our hearts. The journey of Shayla and Ashok is a poignant reminder that even in the deepest darkness, there is always a light to guide us home.
Cullen C.
Following an orphaned wolfdog and a boy from a Ukrainian orphanage as they trust their Father is a masterclass in spiritual resilience. It’s a powerful 'light in the darkness' for any reader.
Olivia N.
My kids absolutely adored Shayla the wolfdog. The friendship between her and Ashok is precious. It’s an adventure that teaches all valuable life lessons in a simple, engaging way
James W.
“Shayla’s Adventure: Finding the Light in the Darkness” Activity Booklet
The word searches and scrambles are great for building vocabulary while keeping the focus on the beautiful themes of faith and friendship found in the main book.
Aurora Asher
If you’ve read any of the 'Shayla's Adventure' books, you need this! Provides hours of creative fun centered around a truly inspiring dog.
(This book) does a fantastic job of reinforcing the life lessons of love and perseverance from the story through fun coloring pages.
Sophia Oliver
A simple, high-quality activity book that mirrors the gentle and uplifting tone of the author’s writing.
James Williams
Stephanie J. Clark’s illustrations are just as charming here as they are in the storybook. It’s a wonderful way for children to interact with the characters they love.
“Shayla’s Adventure: Home for Christmas”
A creative and uplifting story, rich in Ukrainian and American Christmas traditions. Conveys a message of love and friendship as Sweet Shayla befriends Santa and his dogs, including a blind Saint Bernard puppy, and even his cat. Beautifully illustrated.
Kay W.
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.
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.
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.