Blog Archives
Fun, Unusual, and Silly
Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog follows a lovable German Shepherd adopted from a rescue shelter who joins her family on a trip to the zoo and spends the day learning about the animals. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration was my niece who was a zookeeper and continues to work with animals in her current job. In addition, my love for animals!
In your story you packed in a lot of educational information, but still made it feel organic and not like reading a fact sheet. What was your thought process on deciding what facts to include?
I tried to include ‘fun’, unusual, and silly facts to make it fun for the reader- while learning- and not be boring!
The colorful artwork is dynamic and charming, especially the representation of Cadie. What was it like to work with Chris Schwink?
I absolutely love working with Chris. He really is talented in how he brings my stories- and visions- to light. Most people use digital illustrations where I like the raw talent of hand drawn ones, and Chris does an amazing job!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
This is our 3rd book of the Adventures With Cadie Kids Book series and it just was released in December 2025. I have ideas for the next one already, with some outlines but unsure of when it will be finished at this time!
In her latest escapade, Cadie explores a bustling zoo with the help of a kind zookeeper who introduces her to a parade of fascinating animals―from towering giraffes to mischievous monkeys. Join Cadie as she discovers new friends and finds joy in every pawstep!
Along the way, young readers will follow a colorful zoo map, answer playful questions, and learn fun animal facts without even realizing they’re learning. With vibrant illustrations, interactive elements, and Cadie’s lovable charm, this story is perfect for families who cherish animals, adventure, and stories that spark curiosity.
Whether read aloud at bedtime or explored independently, “Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog” invites children to laugh, learn, and believe in second chances.
Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog
Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog, written by Natalie McCurry and Cadie McCurry and brought to life through Chris Shwink’s vivid illustrations, delivers a delightful blend of learning and laughter. The story follows Cadie, a lovable German Shepherd adopted from a rescue shelter, as she joins her family on a lively outing to the M.D. Zoo, a teaching zoo brimming with unusual and captivating species. With guidance from Miss Melissa and her assistant, Sadie, Cadie ushers readers from exhibit to exhibit, introducing everything from zebras and lions to kangaroos and macaws. Each stop includes fun facts, pronunciation tips, and playful sketches. The design feels bright and interactive, and a thoughtfully included zoo map helps children visualize the journey as it unfolds.
The charm of the book rests heavily on its warm narration. Cadie’s voice feels friendly and inviting, almost conversational, as though she’s chatting directly with the reader. The writing stays accessible while still nudging children to think, speak, and participate. Because the M.D. Zoo emphasizes hands-on learning; the educational elements appear naturally, never heavy-handed. Pronunciation guides, in particular, are a welcome touch that builds confidence as kids encounter unfamiliar names. I especially appreciated the appearance of animals rarely seen in children’s books, such as the Binturong, which keeps the experience fresh for adults sharing the story.
Every page delivers small bursts of information that feel lively rather than encyclopedic. Cadie outlines how each creature lives, eats, and behaves, all in a tone that remains upbeat and curious. The teaching-zoo setting subtly reinforces ideas surrounding conservation, responsible animal care, and exploration-driven learning. Underneath the fun lies a gentle message about compassion: Cadie’s own rescue story serves as a reminder of the joy that comes from giving a home to an animal in need. The activity page at the end, “Cadie’s Notes,” invites children to draw their favorite animal, offering a simple but meaningful moment of creativity and reflection.
Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog stands out as a wonderful choice for young readers and the families who read alongside them. It pulls children away from screens and into a world of discovery, curiosity, and kindness. Wholesome, spirited, and full of imaginative energy, it deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0FY4PDQHG
Adventures, Fun, and Lots of Love
Fun Farm Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog follows a bouncy, lovable rescue pup as she explores barns, meets baby animals, tastes honey, and even gets a ride on a big green tractor. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration is of course, Cadie. She had a horrible life before she was rescued and we adopted her. I wanted her to live out her days with adventures, fun, and lots of love! My other inspirations are my great nephews, who I originally wrote the books for!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to share the importance of farms. I try to include learning facts for the kids (and sometimes the adults) who read my books! Also, that rescuing a dog can give you so much joy- especially while taking them on adventures with you!
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Although I love all of the farm animals, I loved writing the scene with Cadie wanting to ride the green tractor! Also, I was very happy to incorporate my parents as characters in the book as they are my biggest supporters!
I find a problem in well-written stories, in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there another book planned?
Yes!!! Book #1 in the series- Awesome Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog is already out. This book-Fun Farm Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog– is book #2 in the Adventures With Cadie Kids Book series. We hope to have book #3, Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog, out later this year!!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Follow Cadie, a rescued pup from a high kill shelter in Texas, as she embarks on her next adventure at a farm. Meet different animals and learn all about farm life as Cadie explores alongside a farmer. She also will meet a veterinarian and the farmer’s wife!
With charming illustrations and lovable characters, “Fun Farm Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog” is the perfect read for families who love animals and adventure. Join Cadie on her journey to live happily ever after and order your copy today!
Fun Farm Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog
Cadie, a bouncy, lovable rescue pup, takes readers on a warm and cheerful journey to the Kerp Family Farm in Fun Farm Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog. From splashing pigs to towering cornfields and buzzing beehives, Cadie experiences the charm and hard work of farm life through the eyes of a joyful dog seeing it all for the first time. Alongside her loving mom and friendly Farmer Bill, Cadie explores barns, meets baby animals, tastes honey, and even gets a ride on a big green tractor. The story wraps around themes of kindness, curiosity, and the everyday magic of nature and animals.
I really enjoyed this children’s book. It’s got a big heart. Cadie’s voice is bubbly and sweet without being over-the-top. It feels like a kid telling you about their favorite day ever, and that makes it infectious. The writing is straightforward and playful, with little bits of real information tucked in that kids will actually remember. Like how goats can climb because of their special hooves, or how bees help crops grow. That’s clever storytelling—fun and educational without feeling like a lesson. Also, the way Cadie cares about her cat siblings is adorable.It packs in a lot of animals, farm facts, and moments. And the positivity of the whole story is unshakable. It’s happy in a way that makes you feel good after reading it.
The illustrations are charmingly hand-drawn, full of warmth and personality. Each page feels like it was sketched with care, capturing the playful energy of Cadie and the cozy, down-to-earth feel of farm life. The soft lines and bright, friendly colors make the animals and scenery come alive in a way that’s fun and comforting. Kids will easily connect with the simple and expressive style—it looks like something they might try drawing themselves, which makes it all the more relatable and inviting.
This is a lovely picture book. I’d recommend it for young readers or for any family with a rescue dog of their own. It’s great for bedtime, classroom reading, or just a sunny afternoon snuggle. If you’ve got a kid who’s curious about farms, animals, or just loves a sweet dog story, Fun Farm Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog will hit the spot.
Pages: 46 | ASIN : B0C6Z8WLC3
LITERARY TITAN 