Ivy the Very Determined Dog

by Chris & Maureen Harrington

Ivy the Very Determined Dog is an inspiring true story about overcoming life's challenges and finding your inner strength.

Who is Ivy? The bravest (and cutest) French Bulldog you will ever meet. On her third birthday (of all days) Ivy became suddenly paralyzed in her back legs due to a rare genetic spinal disease. That has not stopped Ivy from living life to her absolute fullest.

Ivy inspires us all to never give up. Embrace your individuality. And most importantly, to always keep on rolling what ever you do and never let your troubles get the better of you!

Genres: Animals, Childrens, Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

Published May 15, 2019

About the author

Meet Chris and Maureen Harrington, husband and wife, proud parents of Ivy, and authors of Ivy the Very Determined Dog. When they brought Ivy home five years ago, they knew she would fill their home with frenchie kisses and love. Never could they have imagined just how much happiness she would bring, or that she would teach them some of the most important lessons life has to offer.

After Ivy became suddenly paralyzed, they searched for answers on how she could live a happy “normal" life. What came next was remarkable. They watched their little Ivy wake up each day stronger and more determined than the next. Two steps on two paws turned into running on the beach on two paws (and sometimes a little extra help from her wheels).

Chris and Maureen realized that Ivy's story needed to be told. Setbacks are part of life. It's how we come out of those setbacks that shows our true inner strength. Ivy is the inspiration behind the book, but it was written to inspire children that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.

Chris, Maureen and Ivy live outside of Boston.

Reviews

[Ellee Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Copyright date: 2019
Star rating: 5
Award: Purple dragonfly book award
Genre: nonfiction, picture book
Summary w/ themes: This book is about a dog who loves to run around and have fun, but then she gets an injury. Will she be able to have fun and live her best life? This book has a theme of determination.
Use for future classroom: This could be a good book to keep on my shelf.
Thoughts of book: I really enjoyed this book because I love dogs. I love that it is a real story and I also enjoy the inspiration behind the title.

[Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I loved this book so much, I’m so glad we bought it instead of the library. She’s very cute. I didn’t know she would start without wheels. I have a friend at school named Ivy. It was sad but happy. I’m glad she has friends. And I loved seeing her real pictures and her license plate on her wheels.” - Lucas

[Stacey Mulholland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm excited to meet Ivy this spring at my school

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read with Jasper and Dana Perino!!!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The story is so inspirational and the pictures are wonderful. Ivy has a
great spirit that encourages all of us to keep pushing on.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so adorable!!

[Nancy W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivy the Very Determined Dog is an inspiration! The story and the illustrations provide an engaging read for a person of any and all ages. Ivy’s open heart allows her to overcome adversity and befriend all who meet her. Ivy will make your day better - every time you read it and look at the illustrations.