Yesterday I launched a new Linda’s Book Bag feature called Staying in with… because I wanted to afford authors the opportunity to showcase one of their books to blog readers. You can see the details here.

I’m delighted to be starting that feature with lovely Patricia Furstenberg. Pat has been on the blog before when I reviewed her book Puppy: 12 Months of Rhymes and Smiles here and with a couple of guest posts. One of those was about the importance of reading that you can find here and the other about how we celebrate diversity in children’s fiction blogged here.

Staying in with Patricia Furstenberg

Happy New Year! I’m delighted to be starting my new feature with you Pat. Which of your books have you brought along to share with me and why have you chosen it?

Happy New Year, Linda, from me and Joyful Trouble, the book based on the true story of a dog enlisted in the Royal Navy.

Joyful Trouble is dear to my heart and a book I planned to write, although in the spur of the moment, being my entry in the 2017 Kindle Storyteller competition. It did so well, the friendly Great Dane with a heart of gold made it in the Top Reviewed and is still featured under Literature and Fiction on the Kindle Storyteller’s Amazon page.

Joyful Trouble was a Hot New Release, it reached No.1 in Children’s African Historical Fiction, No.1 in Children’s Dog eBooks, No.1 Best Sellers  in Africa for Young Adults, was Most Gifted in the Young Adults category and the Large Print edition of Joyful Trouble went up to #31 in Amazon UK Spiritual and Historical fiction

The friendly Great Dane wins everybody’s hearts, yet it does make you wonder what’s his secret, why his inexplicable affection for sailors?

What can we expect from an evening in with Joyful Trouble?

Expect to be surprised. Here are some of the things readers have been saying: “I picked up this book intending to just read the first chapter to get a feel for it. I was utterly sucked in and I am completely in love with Joyful Trouble – what a dog!”

Joyful Trouble is a “quick and very delightful read” enjoyed by children: “I love this book and it made me happy and, at some parts, sad. It is also a bit funny” and adults alike: “It is a story that will stick with you long after you read it”, “I absolutely love the way this is told – it rings true for many grandparents and their grandchildren”, “Despite this being a book for children I found myself chuckling at times.”

Dog lovers poured over it, “being a dog person myself, I absolutely loved this book”, but cat persons too – as we do need diverse books!

“It warmed my heart. A super book to be enjoyed by any age.”

“I laughed with this book and shed a tear or two as well. Overall this was a. Even though this book is tagged as a children’s book, I would recommend it to all.”
“Endearing Story of a Remarkable Dog”

As well as Joyful Trouble, what else have you brought along and why?

I’m bringing along cozonac and champagne. Cozonac is a Romanian traditional desert that goes so well with a book – and with champagne!

Oh – I love champagne and that cozonac looks fabulous. Thanks Pat!

Happy New Year Linda and wonderful Linda’s Book Bag readers! Wishing you all a happy and prosperous 2018, filled with good health, joy and books!

Many thanks Patricia and a happy, healthy and successful 2018 to you too.

Joyful Trouble

Joyful Trouble was published on 16th April 2017 and is available for purchase in e-book and paperback here.

A humorous read about an incredible dog and how he found his true, yet unexpected calling.

A dog. A friendship. A purpose.

Proven to warm your heart, Joyful Trouble is a fast-paced, engaging and funny story.

Patricia Furstenberg paints a charming portrait of the bond between a small girl and boy and their much-loved Grandad. This book takes readers on an unbelievable journey, tackling universal themes and voicing animal rights and the importance of fighting for what is right.

When a Great Dane arrives in a Navy base nobody expects him to win everybody’s hearts, although breaking some rules along the way. But things soon turn sour as somebody threatens to put him to sleep. Who will stand up for this four-legged gentle giant?

A charming celebration of innocence.

About Patricia Furstenberg

Patricia Furstenberg came to writing though reading. After completing her Medical Degree in Romania she moved to South Africa where she now lives with her husband, children and their dogs. Patricia became taking writing seriously  after becoming one of the WYO Christie winners. She enjoys writing for children  because she can take abstract, grown-up concepts and package them it in attractive, child-friendly ways while adding sensitivity and lots of love.

All of Patricia’s children’s books are available here.

You can follow Patricia on Twitter, find her on Facebook and visit her website. She’s also on Goodreads.