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My Hair-Raising and Heartwarming Adventures as a Pet Sitter: A Life of Fun, Fur, and Faith
Encounters with Animals, Lessons from God
What do an ailing goat, a high-strung Australian Shepherd, and a raucous rooster all have in common? Professional pet sitter Christi Grace has cared for them all, and each of their stories reveal sweet spiritual truths about our relationship with God.
In her twelve years of working with animals and their owners, Christi has experienced emotions ranging from happiness to heartache and everything in between. Let her introduce you to some of her most unforgettable clients:
Ginger — a goat whose value far outweighs her $35 price tag
Zinnia — a medium-sized dog with big trust issues
Rocko — a barnyard bully of a rooster who guards the chicken yard with unabandoned zeal
Shiloh — a horse who lives up to his name by bringing peace to all he meets
Joy — a woman who proves that sometimes it’s not the animal but the owner whose life is impacted when a pet sitter comes to call
These and other memorable characters make this book a must-read for animal lovers or anyone who needs a little more faith and inspiration from above.
What do an ailing goat, a high-strung Australian Shepherd, and a raucous rooster all have in common? Professional pet sitter Christi Grace has cared for them all, and each of their stories reveal sweet spiritual truths about our relationship with God.
In her twelve years of working with animals and their owners, Christi has experienced emotions ranging from happiness to heartache and everything in between. Let her introduce you to some of her most unforgettable clients:
Ginger — a goat whose value far outweighs her $35 price tag
Zinnia — a medium-sized dog with big trust issues
Rocko — a barnyard bully of a rooster who guards the chicken yard with unabandoned zeal
Shiloh — a horse who lives up to his name by bringing peace to all he meets
Joy — a woman who proves that sometimes it’s not the animal but the owner whose life is impacted when a pet sitter comes to call
These and other memorable characters make this book a must-read for animal lovers or anyone who needs a little more faith and inspiration from above.
- GenresNonfiction
192 pages, Paperback
Published February 4, 2020
2 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 18, 2020
The lessons that God can teach an inclined heart about Himself and His relationship with us through pets are amazing. Christi Grace beautiful develops this theme as she introduces us to some of the animals and adventures she had in her 12 years as a professional pet sitter in the Atlanta, Georgia area.
I really appreciated the humor, openness, and spiritually-stirring heartbeat of this book. Many of the spiritual lessons (either about God or herself) the author learned with working a certain pet resonate with me as something I’ve failed in similarly and had to correct or served as a challenge to me to continue to allow God to mold my heart. I’m not sure what I expected when I picked up this book, but it caused me to smile, laugh, and slow down and pray.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes from Netgalley. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I really appreciated the humor, openness, and spiritually-stirring heartbeat of this book. Many of the spiritual lessons (either about God or herself) the author learned with working a certain pet resonate with me as something I’ve failed in similarly and had to correct or served as a challenge to me to continue to allow God to mold my heart. I’m not sure what I expected when I picked up this book, but it caused me to smile, laugh, and slow down and pray.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes from Netgalley. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 14, 2019
I was actually surprised and sad to come to the end of this book. I really enjoyed the chuckle-inducing stories and felt the sadness of some of the others. I liked how Christi cared so much for her charges and really appreciated that she is often able to narrate what eventually happens to her pets years afterwards.
The life lessons were not new to me, but definitely still great reminders! I admit I did not read the prayers!
Thank you Netgalley and Harvest House for the ARC. This is my honest review in exchange.
The life lessons were not new to me, but definitely still great reminders! I admit I did not read the prayers!
Thank you Netgalley and Harvest House for the ARC. This is my honest review in exchange.
February 29, 2020
Synopsis
This is the first faith-based book that I have had the privilege to review. I am normally approached to write complex scientific tombs owing to my academic background. When I stumbled across this book, I was intrigued by the book cover and then the title. I had no idea that the work was humorous, laconic, inspirational, profoundly moving, and a homage to Christi Grace’s devotion to Jesus Christ.
What followed was a beautiful retinue of animal stories some deeply moving and others full of drama and pathos. The text doesn’t only revolve around our ‘furry friends’ however it also includes a tale of human existence, challenges, and tragedies.
There are a number of characters throughout the book, and it begins with Gideon’s story. Gideon with the beautiful eyes and only three working limbs. Christi Grace portrays a stunning image of Gideon and her warmth for him radiates from the pages as she leads us through his life adventure. The list begins with Gideon and ends with Graces’s long standing friendship with Joy. In between are the recollections of Ginger the goat, Rocko the Polish rooster, Zinna, Maui, Dekota, Molly, Hollis, ToTo, and the invisible cats. In addition to the animal menagerie is the cast of human characters.
This fable has multiple attractions primary among them is the engaging tales, adventures and humanity in this written account of her experiences. The monograph enjoys a broad appeal. The text contains humor, pathos, inspiration, and devotion when brought together they produce a heady mix. Therefore, if you are looking for fun, a distraction, something to read that carries a positive message this manuscript will fulfill your needs.
The format is made up of compendium anecdotes about the dogs, cats, goats, horses, and people. In many ways the stories make up a series of parables cleverly linked together by Grace’s use of Biblical quotes and passages. This juxtaposition of her real-life experiences and that of ‘The Book’ see each supporting the other.
Grace is moved and motivated deeply from a place of love, admiration and faith; all concentrated by her personal life experience. Grace tells us many times how the panoply of God’s blessings continually gives her reason to praise him. She shares that praise with the reader in copious amounts. This in no way distracts from the chronicle, in may ways it enhances the narrative and supports it.
As mentioned above the characters are many and varied, as are the experiences both amusing and sad. I could not help but be moved by several of the tales, and I admit to finding some rather humorous. I found myself gripped by the tales which were both written well and completely believable to anyone who has ever owned a pet.
Christi Grace has managed to distill twelve years of caring for other people’s animals into a concise read. It is short enough to be read in an hour or two or to be savored like a fine wine over a few days.
Conclusion
My Hair-Raising and Heartwarming Adventures as a Pet Sitter written by Christi Grace is as described in the title. There is humor, pathos, life and death decision making throughout. Ultimately, it is about how Christi Grace recognizes her spirituality in her everyday working life as a pet sitter. It is clear that Christi is eternally grateful for blessings she has received and this work is her eulogy for those gifts.
Of all the stories in the manuscript, the story of Dakota is the one that will remain with me. Animal cruelty is abhorrent to me, and this is such a tale. If you read this book for no other reason then read it for Dakota (Shiloh’s Promise) Beginning Chapter 5. Loc. 548.
The stories are touching, eloquently written and full of love for the animals she cared for. Her passion and love will rub off on you and engage you. I challenge you not to shed a tear over Shiloh’s Promise.
If I have any criticism, it is the stories could have been more comprehensive and lacked illustrations or images. I also would have liked Christi to talk more about herself, her circumstances and her family. Some people feel reluctant to read any faith influenced book and this is such a pity.
I found the dedications at the end useful as an aid memoir.
Acknowledgment
My sincere thanks go to: NetGalley, The Author, Christi Grace, and Harvest House Publishers (2020) for affording me the opportunity to review; My Hair-Raising and Heartwarming Adventures as a Pet Sitter.
This is the first faith-based book that I have had the privilege to review. I am normally approached to write complex scientific tombs owing to my academic background. When I stumbled across this book, I was intrigued by the book cover and then the title. I had no idea that the work was humorous, laconic, inspirational, profoundly moving, and a homage to Christi Grace’s devotion to Jesus Christ.
What followed was a beautiful retinue of animal stories some deeply moving and others full of drama and pathos. The text doesn’t only revolve around our ‘furry friends’ however it also includes a tale of human existence, challenges, and tragedies.
There are a number of characters throughout the book, and it begins with Gideon’s story. Gideon with the beautiful eyes and only three working limbs. Christi Grace portrays a stunning image of Gideon and her warmth for him radiates from the pages as she leads us through his life adventure. The list begins with Gideon and ends with Graces’s long standing friendship with Joy. In between are the recollections of Ginger the goat, Rocko the Polish rooster, Zinna, Maui, Dekota, Molly, Hollis, ToTo, and the invisible cats. In addition to the animal menagerie is the cast of human characters.
This fable has multiple attractions primary among them is the engaging tales, adventures and humanity in this written account of her experiences. The monograph enjoys a broad appeal. The text contains humor, pathos, inspiration, and devotion when brought together they produce a heady mix. Therefore, if you are looking for fun, a distraction, something to read that carries a positive message this manuscript will fulfill your needs.
The format is made up of compendium anecdotes about the dogs, cats, goats, horses, and people. In many ways the stories make up a series of parables cleverly linked together by Grace’s use of Biblical quotes and passages. This juxtaposition of her real-life experiences and that of ‘The Book’ see each supporting the other.
Grace is moved and motivated deeply from a place of love, admiration and faith; all concentrated by her personal life experience. Grace tells us many times how the panoply of God’s blessings continually gives her reason to praise him. She shares that praise with the reader in copious amounts. This in no way distracts from the chronicle, in may ways it enhances the narrative and supports it.
As mentioned above the characters are many and varied, as are the experiences both amusing and sad. I could not help but be moved by several of the tales, and I admit to finding some rather humorous. I found myself gripped by the tales which were both written well and completely believable to anyone who has ever owned a pet.
Christi Grace has managed to distill twelve years of caring for other people’s animals into a concise read. It is short enough to be read in an hour or two or to be savored like a fine wine over a few days.
Conclusion
My Hair-Raising and Heartwarming Adventures as a Pet Sitter written by Christi Grace is as described in the title. There is humor, pathos, life and death decision making throughout. Ultimately, it is about how Christi Grace recognizes her spirituality in her everyday working life as a pet sitter. It is clear that Christi is eternally grateful for blessings she has received and this work is her eulogy for those gifts.
Of all the stories in the manuscript, the story of Dakota is the one that will remain with me. Animal cruelty is abhorrent to me, and this is such a tale. If you read this book for no other reason then read it for Dakota (Shiloh’s Promise) Beginning Chapter 5. Loc. 548.
The stories are touching, eloquently written and full of love for the animals she cared for. Her passion and love will rub off on you and engage you. I challenge you not to shed a tear over Shiloh’s Promise.
If I have any criticism, it is the stories could have been more comprehensive and lacked illustrations or images. I also would have liked Christi to talk more about herself, her circumstances and her family. Some people feel reluctant to read any faith influenced book and this is such a pity.
I found the dedications at the end useful as an aid memoir.
Acknowledgment
My sincere thanks go to: NetGalley, The Author, Christi Grace, and Harvest House Publishers (2020) for affording me the opportunity to review; My Hair-Raising and Heartwarming Adventures as a Pet Sitter.
January 31, 2020
Author Christi Grace is a professional pet-sitter of twelve years' duration, who sees God's love and lessons through the animals for which she cares as well as those animals' human owners and carers. In this well-written memoir, she illustrates those lessons through her experiences, backed up with apropos Bible passages. Reading this is a heartwarming and rewarding experience.
November 6, 2023
I was really surprised by this book. I was expecting something light and perhaps a bit silly or I relatable but I was wrong, wrong, wrong. This is well written & tugged at my heart in so many ways. If you have ever loved an animal, you will be challenged to love them more and challenged to see what God is trying to teach you through your own encounters with animals and people. Christi is a great observer of human and animal behaviors and so perceptive on their needs, just like God wants us. As I read along, I kept growing my list of friends who would enjoy this book. I sure hope a second volume is in the works. If her goal was to expand the hearts of her readers, that mission is accomplished.
November 13, 2019
Short little stories about pet-sitting for a variety of neighbors and a variety of animals. the author left a good paying job in the city, and her and her husband live in a more rural area now. Instead of adding to their own collection, she goes and pet-sits for a part time job instead. Each short chapter is a different job, and a learning experience, both of the animal, the owner and the sitter. Interesting, and enjoyed it for the most part, although the spiritual felt a bit didactic at times, so tended to skim some of that a bit more and more. Otherwise, highly recommend this book.
December 27, 2019
Loved this book a lot, I laughed so much reading about Christi's adventures with animals. who needs the stress of a high paid job when animals can give you so much love and enjoyment. The scripture readings were a nice touch, I hope that Christi will write another book as I found it so uplifting to be able to dip into it at anytime.
Thank you netgalley and harvest house.
Thank you netgalley and harvest house.
November 14, 2019
A great book for all not just animal lovers.
This relates the story of Christi whilst she was a petsitter. She tells us about various animals both big and small with the lessons Jesus was showing her as she cared for the dogs, cats, chickens, goats etc.
An excellent book to read or give.
This relates the story of Christi whilst she was a petsitter. She tells us about various animals both big and small with the lessons Jesus was showing her as she cared for the dogs, cats, chickens, goats etc.
An excellent book to read or give.
January 10, 2020
A fun and engrossing read that kept me hooked till the end.
It think it's the perfect read for any animal lover.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It think it's the perfect read for any animal lover.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 4, 2020
Mostly light hearted, biblical versus and reminder of God's love comforting
March 14, 2020
Such a fun book! If you love Jesus and animals, read this one!
December 31, 2022
What a wonderful read! It was funny, sad, heartwarming, and Godly. I loved every minute of it.
May 2, 2020
I am a seasonal/part-time pet sitter, and so the title of a new release from Harvest House Publishers immediately caught my attention... “My Hair-Raising and Heartwarming Adventures as a Pet Sitter: A Life of Fun, Fur, and Faith”! Written by professional pet sitter Christi Grace, this book is an anthology of stories about her career of caring for other peoples’ pets when they are away from home - as you can imagine, she has seen a little bit of everything!
Christi clearly has two major talents: compassionately caring for animals, and also writing in a way that points everyday occurrences towards the higher truth of God’s love and grace. Consequently, her book is much like a devotional for animal-lovers, with a Scripture verse and prayer bookending each chapter, and biblical insights woven into her animal stories. Some of the stories are humorous, some are quite sad, and some will simply make you shake your head in wonder.
Overall I enjoyed reading this sweet story from a professional pet sitter. Although I was a bit surprised that a number of the stories seemed to end sadly, I deeply appreciated her words in the last chapter:
“We’ve all heard that saying goodbye is never easy. But what if we knew without a doubt that we would see the one we’re saying goodbye to again. . . As I’ve had to say goodbye to the pets I’ve cared for as well as to my own pets, I’ve been greatly comforted by reading these Scriptures in God’s Word. . . This chapter is dedicated to the pets I’ve had to say goodbye to. . . He used each one to bless me in ways I never could have imagined. And one day, one amazing day, I’ll see them again. That’s my belief.”
I love this. And not only did God bless her in unimaginable ways with the pets she cared for, but now her writing will bless countless others as she uses her love for animals to illustrate God’s truths for her readers. Thank you, Christi Grace, for sharing this book with us. I hope we will hear more from you one day very soon!
This book was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers, in exchange for my honest review.
Christi clearly has two major talents: compassionately caring for animals, and also writing in a way that points everyday occurrences towards the higher truth of God’s love and grace. Consequently, her book is much like a devotional for animal-lovers, with a Scripture verse and prayer bookending each chapter, and biblical insights woven into her animal stories. Some of the stories are humorous, some are quite sad, and some will simply make you shake your head in wonder.
Overall I enjoyed reading this sweet story from a professional pet sitter. Although I was a bit surprised that a number of the stories seemed to end sadly, I deeply appreciated her words in the last chapter:
“We’ve all heard that saying goodbye is never easy. But what if we knew without a doubt that we would see the one we’re saying goodbye to again. . . As I’ve had to say goodbye to the pets I’ve cared for as well as to my own pets, I’ve been greatly comforted by reading these Scriptures in God’s Word. . . This chapter is dedicated to the pets I’ve had to say goodbye to. . . He used each one to bless me in ways I never could have imagined. And one day, one amazing day, I’ll see them again. That’s my belief.”
I love this. And not only did God bless her in unimaginable ways with the pets she cared for, but now her writing will bless countless others as she uses her love for animals to illustrate God’s truths for her readers. Thank you, Christi Grace, for sharing this book with us. I hope we will hear more from you one day very soon!
This book was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers, in exchange for my honest review.
January 25, 2020
This was such a fun book to read ! As a animal lover I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. Christi has a way with animals and this heartwarming book is her testament to her love of all creatures. I enjoyed reading of her Spiritual inspiration as well as her many adventures in pet sitting. I highly recommend this book for everyone that loves animals and needs a afternoon with a heartwarming lovely adventure of pet sitting through the author's eyes.
I have known people that pet sit only to make money and would stay for one hour and leave my home without communicating/interacting with my cat or any for the pets they cared for. Christi has a genuine love for animals that shines through her writing and is endearing. She truly cares for each and every pet she cares for. it was nice to read about her level of commitment as a pet sitter. Very enjoyable read !
I have known people that pet sit only to make money and would stay for one hour and leave my home without communicating/interacting with my cat or any for the pets they cared for. Christi has a genuine love for animals that shines through her writing and is endearing. She truly cares for each and every pet she cares for. it was nice to read about her level of commitment as a pet sitter. Very enjoyable read !
May 30, 2020
After receiving this book as a gift from a dear friend, I just had to write a review. I rarely write reviews, and never give a 5 star. But, I can truly say this book deserved it 100%! I never imagined a book about pet sitting would affect me like this one did. It is actually very deep and the author obviously loves animals and definitely Jesus. The stories are not average by any means, and I can tell the author shared some very personal things about herself. The fact that she can relate to animals and turn it into a soul-bearing experience that also can touch her readers is amazing. Thank you Christi Grace for this pure and heartwarming book. I hope you have more books to share with us in the very near future!
May 26, 2020
I have a small pet sitting business in Des Moines, IA. One of my dearest clients found this book in the airport while I was staying with her 4 dogs, cat, goats and alpaca. She immediately ordered a copy for me. This book brought tears to my eyes several times but also so much joy to my heart. I am now inspired to write about my own experiences with the pets in my care. Thank you, Christi Grace for sharing your stories!
February 28, 2020
This was very touching. I’m glad I chanced upon this audiobook. It has plenty of scripture and heartwarming and cute pet stories.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews