Book Review of Piki Goes to College
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The Children’s Book Review

Piki Goes to College

Written and Illustrated by Joan M Hellquist

Ages 4-9 | 38 Pages

Publisher: Artistic Endeavors/Bear Foot Printing | ISBN-13: 978-0-578-88728-9

What to Expect: Animal welfare, Animal training, Disability legislation

Piki Goes to College is both an endearing story and an important learning resource for children and adults alike.

It’s not always easy being a well-behaved dog. When there are other dogs to play with, crumbs under tables to investigate, and wide-open spaces to romp in, doing as you are told can feel very boring. Piki must learn this important skill, however, if she wants to earn her service dog vest. Together with her owner, Joan, Piki learns what it means to be a service dog and how to keep her boisterous nature under control when she is doing her job. She becomes an important support as well as a loveable scamp—all thanks to her special dog college!

Packed with information about service dogs, training, disability regulations, and animal behavior, Piki Goes to College can help readers understand that services dogs are much, much more than well-trained pets. Through the narrative and the resource-filled appendices, readers will learn how a service dog is trained and also how to behave around a service dog to help her do her job well. Beautiful, hand-drawn illustrations burst with movement and help bring Piki to life on the page.

Overall, Piki Goes to College is both enjoyable and instructive.

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About the Author

For most of my life, I’ve been known for my artwork. Beginning in high school, friends and family also recognized me as a storyteller and letter writer with a dry sense of humor. Writing and illustrating books is a relatively new endeavor that I’m really enjoying.

Two of my loves are children and animals. I see children and animals as kindred spirits who are innocent, without baggage, full of unconditional love, and let you know exactly what is on their minds. Who could ask for more?

I’ve had the privilege and joy of working with children as a respiratory therapist, physician assistant, bereavement facilitator, and service dog trainer.

I’m originally from Summit, NJ, have lived in several states, but have lived in New Mexico since 1988. New Hampshire, the exact opposite of New Mexico, is where I spend at least part of my summers at a family vacation home. Both NM and NH are where I feel the most at home. I share my life with my two dogs, Piki and Teddy.  

Although Piki Goes to College is my second book, it is the first of a series of books, told by Piki, about her training, experiences, and adventures. Each Piki book is written to entertain children and educate both children and their parents about rescue and service dogs.

For more information, visit www.joanmhellquist.com.

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