By: Peter McGee
In Shayla & Friends: Into the Light, Barchelle “Chelly” Bolger Wathen presents readers with a touching blend of adventure, faith, and the resilience of a remarkable shepherd-wolfdog mix named Shayla. The novel, based on true events, follows Shayla’s remarkable journey from a Ukrainian orphanage to her forever home in America, where she discovers love, trust, and inner courage. Wathen, who resides in Prescott, Arizona, with her husband George and Shayla herself, brings authenticity and warmth to this fictionalized account of her beloved dog’s life.
Shayla’s story begins at Father’s House Orphanage (Otchiy Dim) in Ukraine, where she lives among orphans, both human and canine. Despite a difficult start in life, Shayla’s sweet nature and innate trust remain evident. When the dedicated caregivers at the orphanage arrange her journey across the ocean, Shayla faces the challenge of adapting to a new home in America. On a forest ranch, she bonds with her new pack of canine and human companions, helping them navigate personal trials and external challenges, from forest fires to tracking down bank robbers.
While the book contains several gripping action sequences, what truly stands out are the emotional undercurrents. Wathen skillfully incorporates themes of friendship, acceptance, and trust throughout the narrative. The characters—both human and animal—are well-developed, each bringing their unique backstories and challenges. Readers will likely appreciate the moments of quiet connection between Shayla and her friends, where they find comfort in shared understanding and shared hopes for a brighter future.
One of the most engaging aspects of the book is Shayla’s internal struggle. Torn between the security of her new family and the pull of her wild instincts, Shayla’s journey can be seen as a metaphor for the universal search for belonging. This theme is especially evident in the book’s climax, where Shayla must decide whether to embrace her new life or follow the call of the wilderness.
Wathen’s connection to Shayla infuses the story with genuine warmth and authenticity. The novel appears to be a labor of love, inspired by Shayla’s real-life journey from a war-torn country to a life of happiness and security in Arizona. This backstory adds depth to the fictionalized elements of the tale, making Shayla’s adventures even more meaningful.
For those unfamiliar with Wathen’s work, Shayla & Friends: Into the Light is the latest installment in a series of inspirational books. Previous works, such as Shayla’s Adventure: What’s Across the Ocean? and Shayla’s Adventure: Finding the Light in the Darkness, explore similar themes of resilience, faith, and the strong bond between friends. In each book, Shayla’s journey reflects universal struggles of loss, love, and the pursuit of a safe haven.
Beyond its entertainment value, Into the Light serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire hope and healing. Wathen’s ability to blend emotional depth with exciting adventures makes this book engaging for both young readers and adults. The vivid descriptions of the forest ranch, the tension of life-threatening challenges, and the tender moments of connection between Shayla and her companions create a memorable reading experience.
Whether you’re a fan of canine tales like The Call of the Wild or heartwarming family adventures such as Because of Winn-Dixie, Shayla & Friends: Into the Light has the potential to captivate readers. It’s a story that highlights the significance of love, courage, and the bonds that guide us through life’s challenging moments.
If you’re looking for a book that offers a mix of adventure and heartfelt storytelling, this is one to consider adding to your shelf. Shayla’s journey into the light is likely to leave a lasting impression.
https://www.shaylaandfriends.com/
Published by Stephanie M.
