DOGSLED DREAMS
Today's post is a combination of 2 remarkable things: a memory and the book, 'Dogsled Dreams', written by Terry Lynn Johnson.
First let me tell you about the book. It's the story of a 12-year old girl named Rebecca, raised in the world of dogsled racing, who prepares for and competes in her first solo dogsled race. Ah, but that description doesn't come close to doing the book justice!
That is, I never considered it until my mother entered stage four of a horrific 4 stage terminal illness.
Terry Lynn Johnson's website:TerryLynnJohnson.com
The Amazon.com link to 'Dogsled Dreams' is here.
It's a story about relationships between: school aged friends; the members of a blended family; and people and their dogs. This tale weaves threads of : love, respect, dedication, devotion, perseverance, responsibility, tolerance and hard work into the tapestry of fulfillment these things can provide.
The author is clearly in touch with her inner 12-year old because she captures her lead character's essence, every nuance, superbly.
Dogsled Dreams is the perfect book for anyone in your family. It's exciting, enlightening, uplifting and funny. You'll no doubt be swept away with Rebecca as she works to make her dreams become a reality.
Now for my memory:
Once my children were too old to be read to, I figured memories with that specific kind of sweetness were behind me. I never considered that there may be moments equally as precious in my future.
That is, I never considered it until my mother entered stage four of a horrific 4 stage terminal illness.
Among the things her illness has robbed from her is the ability to read, something she'd done voraciously
all her life. Enter PJ, books in hand.
all her life. Enter PJ, books in hand.
'Dogsled Dreams' is one of the books I read to Mom. I acted out all the parts for her and added commentary when characters did or said something I thought was funny.
Mom's own comments may have been delivered a bit more slowly and her laughter may have been a bit quieter than days of yore, but she LOVED the book! LOVED IT! As a matter of fact, when I told her I wanted to play the part of Rebecca when Terry sold the movie rights to someone, Mom insisted I couldn't...because SHE wants to play the part of Rebecca!
When we finished reading the story, I told Mom we could probably qualify as honorary apprentice mushers. I'm pretty sure.
About Terry, in her own words: I have a passion for sled dogs. My adventures with my team of eighteen Alaskan Huskies have provided me with a rich background to write from.
Terry's an award winning member of the Outdoor Writers of Canada for her magazine articles. DOGSLED DREAMS is her first novel.
When she's not writing, Terry enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, kayak expeditioning, and she occasionally tortures herself in a canoe race. Terry lives in Whitefish Falls, Ontario.
Terry Lynn Johnson's blog: Terry Lynn Johnson, Writing Outdoor Adventures
Terry Lynn Johnson's website:TerryLynnJohnson.com
The Amazon.com link to 'Dogsled Dreams' is here.
The Barnes and Noble link to purchase 'Dogsled Dreams' is here.
*All photos are by and/or of Terry Lynn Johnson*
Always looking forward, PJ
