Poppy Loves Devon by Gillian Young
Published: June 14, 2022
Matador
Pages: 220
Genre: Children’s Literature (ages 7-9)
KKECReads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Gillian Young has written and illustrated three children’s middle-grade books entitled Poppy on Safari, Tammy and Willow, and Poppy Loves Devon. Following Art College, Gillian worked as a Graphic Artist. When her children were born, she worked in admin for local schools and a large construction company. During this time, she also completed a creative writing course.
Poppy wants to befriend anything that moves, but she’s never successful. It seems all the other animals find her too big, loud and boisterous. Dad is convinced she needs a playmate, but Poppy’s unsure. She enjoys the fuss and attention from her family so much, she is not willing to share. The choice is taken away from her when one day a puppy comes along.
However, Poppy soon discovers the puppy is lost and alone. Her big heart and caring nature kicks in when she discovers a monster lurking in a nearby wood. Poppy must act fast to save the farm, her family – and the puppy. Meanwhile, a handsome border collie ticks all the boxes as the ‘perfect’ dog – but is he? Poppy Loves Devon follows her pursuit of making friends but not realising what’s under her very nose.
“Poppy howled, ‘I love holidays!’ then threw her head back again and howled even louder, ‘and I love Devon!’”
Poppy, the Golden Retriever, is excited to go on vacation with her family. While she isn’t thrilled about the sea, she loves the beach. The farm they are staying at has a lot of animals and scents for Poppy to explore, and there are even other dogs! When Poppy finds an abandoned puppy in the wood, everything changes.
This was an adorable story. And this is the perfect style book for a young reader. The cadence is smooth, and the plot is engaging.
Young readers will love Poppy’s personality and excitedly want to keep reading to continue the journey.
With several cute scenes, funny scenes, and some outstanding life lessons, children can learn a lot with Poppy. The pacing is steady, and the excitement is well placed.
This is a charming story, and it’s easy to see why Poppy is the star of her very own series.