How Willy Got His Wheels [Hardcover]

Deborah Turner (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 3 and up | Grade Level: P and up

Willy is a real-life handicapped Chihuahua, rescued from an animal hospital by a kind lady who tries several humorous ways to help Willy walk. First, they try balloons, then he becomes a terror on a skateboard. Finally, share Willy's excitement when he gains his independence after being fitted with a small wheelchair.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This book is charming, funny, sweet and most of all, inspirational. This true story of a very special little dog would warm the heart of even the most life hardened soul. I don't know when, if ever, I've been this touched by a children's book. And here I sit, the mother of three small boys. Willy's [new family includes] Deborah, who adopts him from an animal hospital, and his new siblings, Sweet Pea a Chihuahua and Marshmallow the fluffy cat. This energetic group will keep you chuckling long after the story engraves itself on your heart. Though this is essentially a children's book, it has a far ranging, even universal, appeal. How can we not all thrill to a story of huge courage in the face of challenge. An essential story for any book collection whether it be in a home, public library, or a school. -- Buzzy's Book for 04 / 08 / 98

From the Publisher

This was perhaps Dorals first true mass market book, and only our second childrens book. In many ways, this was a new undertaking for all involved. We used a new artist, a new graphic artist, and a new printer, but the end result was a product we are EXTREMELY proud of. We have only heard positive reviews from everyone we have sent it to, and we are pleasantly surprised by the many different reactions people have to it and what they get out of the book. Perhaps the experiences Mark Anderson, the editor, had with his two small girls best sum up this project. He was to be able to share this with them at every step of the way, from rough draft, to a draft with sketches, to a draft with color sketches, to the cover design, to the final finished product. His two girls were just old enough to appreciate the steps involved and were thrilled when they were able to see and hold the final, finished book in their hand. It was like watching a dream become reality.

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 3 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Bowtie Press (July 14, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0944875548
• ISBN-13: 978-0944875544
• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 8.7 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (11 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #107,685 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Not sappy, just truly inspirational - in the best way!, October 2, 2000

By 

K. Corn "reviewer" (midwest, United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 100 REVIEWER)   

This review is from: How Willy Got His Wheels (Hardcover)

I find that the best inspirational tales come from real life - and this book is no exception. I saw the owner of Willy (yes, there actually is a real Willy) on Animal Planet and knew I just had to buy the book. It is as charming as expected and not just because of spunky little Willy, whose back legs are paralyzed and who has to learn to "walk" again, with the help of a special wheel-cart. It is just as inspiring to read of his owner's attempts to find a way to get him walking - using everything from acupuncture to helium balloons to hold up the back legs. A great read for the entire family!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A touching story of a little dog's courage., October 25, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: How Willy Got His Wheels (Hardcover)

As an uncle to a disabled 6 year old I must say I have yet to see another book make my nephew smile so much. This book is very well written and and the drawings are fantastic. This is a must read for all children with or without handicaps. It not only teaches children how to coup with disabilities, but also how to respond to others with such problems

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A story of love & courage for all ages, January 8, 2000

By 

Kimberly Borrowdale (Oregon USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: How Willy Got His Wheels (Hardcover)

Willy the Chihuahua lives at an animal hospital, because his back legs don't work. He dreams of having a home and a family and playing with other animals and chasing sticks. Then one day, a pretty lady comes and takes him home with her! Willy meets his new brother, another Chihuahua named Sweet Pea, and his new sister, a fluffy silver cat named Marshmallow.

Willy still can't walk or run, and has to use his front legs to drag himself from place to place, until his new mother tries some different ideas to help him get around--with often humorous results.

Filled with bright, gorgeous watercolor illustrations that even pre-readers can appreciate, HOW WILLY GOT HIS WHEELS is the story of a loveable and courageous little dog. Written for age levels 5-10, it's a book that everyone from toddlers to adults can enjoy on many levels. Authors Turner and Mohler have done a tremendous job of showing life from a physically disabled viewpoint without preaching or patronizing. Here's hoping we will get to hear more of Willy's adventures in the near future!

Kimberly Borrowdale Under the Covers Book Reviews