I have met some wonderful teachers in the past few years.  Now I have another one to add to my list of teachers who truly care about the welfare and happiness of their students.  Joyce Gilmour is meant to be a teacher and her school in Brooklyn, Wisconsin is so lucky to have her.

Her compassion and enthusiasm for life and teaching is contagious!  When she learned about me and Frankie, and our books, she contacted me with a plan to have us visit her school this spring.  The lessons our books teach is what they are all about teaching, so she is thrilled to have found us.  And I must say, I am equally thrilled to have found her.  It is so inspiring to connect with others who know their mission in life, and Joyce is one of those people.  And get this- Frankie was born in Brookyln, Wisconsin! 

So Joyce reviewed my books and shared with me this glowing review, which brought me to tears.  She captured the essence of our message and to know she will use our books for years to come in her school to continue our message is truly an honor.  Thank you, Joyce!!

Joyce Gilmour, 3rd grade teacher & owner of Editing TLC review:

Barbara Techel has just become one of my favorite authors of children’s books.  That is saying a lot considering I’ve been teaching third graders for thirty-five years.  Through her book Frankie: The Walk ’n Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby’s House, children will be able to learn many of life’s lessons.  I am always on the lookout for books that can take children beyond the academics and into learning that will affect their relationships. 

 
At our elementary school, we strive to achieve community-building activities that will increase children’s awareness of the world around them and just what it takes to make our community the best environment possible for learning.  Children need to feel safe and cared about, and the lessons learned from Frankie are invaluable in that direction.

The prequel to this book, Frankie: The Walk ’n Roll Dog, helps children to discover that adversity doesn’t have to mean giving up.  Frankie teaches readers that life is about taking challenges.  There is no better way for children to learn this than by reading about this very special dog and her owner, Barbara.

 
In the second book, we learn that Frankie becomes a therapy dog.  She visits Libby’s House and the residents there look forward to the time that they get to spend with her.  What a lesson to learn!  If a dog can provide this need, children can discover that they, too, can bring joy into people’s lives.  They can find out that by giving to others their life is enriched.

Both of these books are both beautifully written and illustrated.  I am thrilled to share these books with my students, my school, and my readers.  It is with all sincerity that Barbara Techel gives of herself and shares Frankie with the world.  I, for one, am grateful to have connected with this author and her books.  Thank you, Barbara Techel for all that you are doing for children, adults, and animals.  You are making a difference in this world of ours.