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  In “The Adventures of Connor and Sparky” by David Armitage, Connor's life is turned upside down when a global pandemic sweeps the world. The familiar outdoor activities and school routines that once brought him joy and excitement are abruptly interrupted. The virus, infecting people worldwide, has imposed a new, challenging reality on him. He could not interact with his friends, participate in sports, or attend school. This sudden change leads him into a state of deep sadness and depression. Despite the efforts of his parents and teachers to help him, nothing they try seems to lift his spirits. One memorable day, Connor's parents decided to surprise him with a delightful, ebony-colored, four-legged friend named Sparky! From that moment on, Connor and Sparky became inseparable best friends, and their bond was heartwarming. Connor's excitement knew no bounds as he pondered the thrilling adventures that awaited them. The duo's first grand mission was to journey into space, and the mere thought of this awe-inspiring expedition filled him with anticipation and exhilaration. Step aboard their futuristic spacecraft and join them in exploring the wondrous planets of the galaxy. You're also invited to participate in the Intergalactic Space Race, joining Connor and Sparky on an extraordinary journey to meet new extraterrestrial friends and traverse uncharted galaxies. Navigate through colossal glaciers, traverse blazing flames, and even witness the eruption of a mighty volcano. Will they outmaneuver the alien contenders and emerge victorious in this enthralling race across the cosmos? The adventures of Connor and Sparky are not just thrilling but also filled with joy and excitement, making it a delightful read for children. David Armitage has skillfully crafted a children's book that delves into the challenging emotions of sadness and depression, offering valuable coping mechanisms for young readers. The characters of Connor and Sparky are not just endearing but also highly relatable. Sparky, in particular, embodies adorableness, lovability, and unwavering friendship that children can easily connect with. Armitage also provides insightful guidance on the responsibilities of pet ownership and the importance of caring for a pet, making the book a valuable resource for parents, educators, and counselors. This book is well-suited for children between the ages of eight and eleven, especially those who may be coping with feelings of sadness or depression. It would be a valuable asset to a counselor's library, as it conveys that they are not alone in their struggles. Additionally, it would make a great addition to school, home, and classroom libraries. The illustrations in the book are particularly noteworthy, as they are full-page, vibrant, and eye-catching. Children will be captivated by these illustrations and inclined to revisit the book multiple times, finding comfort and reassurance in the story of “The Adventures of Connor and Sparky.

• Holly Smith

  “The Adventures of Connor and Sparky” by David Armitage is a delightful tale that works best as a bedtime story for children. While a little longer than some bedtime stories, its content is perfect for whisking a child away into a dream world since the most dynamic portions take place in a dream. However, “The Adventures of Connor and Sparky” is more than a bedtime story.

• Astrid Iustulin

  When Connor is forced to stay home without being able to continue his usual activities, he is no longer the cheerful young boy he always was. It is then that his mom and dad decide to give him a new friend, Sparky, a cute and loving dog. The two become such close friends that they dream of the most incredible adventures at night. They travel through space, discovering that Mars is a huge chocolate bar and that the intergalactic space race championship is taking place at the Saturn Ring Way circuit. Connor and Sparky decide to participate and try to win against the other competitors — aliens with incredible features. Will they win the race? Find out in The Adventures of Connor and Sparky by David Armitage. Dreaming is one of the best and most precious qualities of every child. I liked The Adventures of Connor and Sparky precisely because it shows how creative a child's imagination can be. David Armitage is very good at narrating the space adventure of our hero and his dog. Young readers will enjoy spending time with them and following their space race championship with bated breath. I believe that many children will be inspired by the sweet and sincere friendship between the young boy and his dog and that this will remind them of the importance of pets in their lives. This book has a lot to offer, and I recommend it to all young dreamers, wishing them everlasting friendships and unforgettable adventures like those of Connor and Sparky

• Carol Thompson

  The Adventures of Connor and Sparky by David Armitage is a heartwarming and imaginative tale that invites readers to embark on an intergalactic journey full of whimsy and wonder. The story centers around Connor, a young boy struggling with sadness and confusion due to world events, and his newfound companion, Sparky, a spirited dog. Together, they escape into dream-filled adventures where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary—like flying past floating dog biscuits or discovering that Mars is a giant chocolate bar. Armitage skillfully blends childhood wonder with subtle themes of resilience and hope. Thanks to his bond with Sparky, Connor transforms from a sad little boy to an intrepid adventurer, a sweet testament to the healing power of friendship. The dream adventures, like racing aliens around Saturn and meeting Micky Mouse’s friend “Pluto,” are brimming with creativity and light-hearted fun, making this a perfect read for children and adults who want to rekindle their imaginations. The uncredited illustrations bring the story to life without overpowering the text. Connor and Sparky’s expressions are priceless. They capture every moment perfectly. The Adventures of Connor and Sparky is a story about how a stressful situation can be made good. Sparky not only kept Connor occupied, but they became best friends. I loved when Sparky went upstairs to sleep beside his best buddy. David Armitage's book is an uplifting and vivid escapade celebrating determination and joy in overcoming life's hurdles. It’s an enjoyable ride that will leave readers eager to see where Connor and Sparky’s next adventure takes them. It’s a story children and adults will love. I know I did!

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