Oodles of Fun: Liz Ball

About Me!

I'm Angel, a purebreed poodle. I know the book is called Poodle AND Doodle, but this blog should be all about ME. I'm the true star in the family, you know. I go every few weeks to the groomer to get beautified, and I do my nails every morning. The other dogs don't even go to the groomer. Mama Donna adopted me after my first owner's cat tried to treat me like a mouse. After getting shook around a few times, I was ready to leave. At the time I only weighed about three pounds. I'm up to about twelve pounds now, so that makes me a lightweight in this house, but I'm still the boss. Just ask me.

My owner, Donna Shepherd, wrote the book Poodle & Doodle. It's about me (of course), but I have to admit, just as much about the 'new' dog, a labradoodle. In the book, she is a 'he' named Scruffy, but in real life, her name is Sadie. Just her head is almost as big as I am!

Poodle and Doodle is published by Guardian Angel Publishing. The publisher has a page for Poodle & Doodle. Click HERE. It's on sale on Barnes & Noble. Click HERE to order! To order directly from the publisher or get the eBook, click HERE.
Mama Donna's Books for Kids:

A special treat! Mama Donna's first book, Topsy Turvy Land, was published by Hidden Pictures Publishing. In Topsy Turvy Land, hidden hearts are every page and a puzzle is on the back cover. To celebrate Mother's Day, we get to share a hidden picture puzzle and coloring page by Liz Ball. To order books with her hidden picture puzzles or other books (like Topsy Turvy Land) from Hidden Pictures Publishing, click HERE. Wish I could hold a pencil!

Next time Liz shares a puzzle, maybe it will be one featuring dogs. Those are the best kind!

*Click on the picture, then print! It will print out full size ready to be colored. If that doesn't work with your printer, right click on the picture, and then 'save picture as...' and then you can print it out using your photo program. - Donna

Poodle and Doodle is out! Reviewers have reviewed. It's a very short picture book, so it takes very little time to read, but I know it takes a while to formulate a well-worded review. Jack Foster did the sweetest illustrations. The reason it's so simple is that it's also being released as an app for iKids Play, so I'll not only be a book and blog star, but a star on iTunes!

Each page has 4 lines of text with a very simple illustration. It also has hidden bones in some of the illustrations. Bones - yummy!

What readers are saying...

"This charming children’s story in delightful rhyme will amuse every reader as it shows there IS room for more than one dog." - Nancy Carty Lepri, author of Tiny Angel

"Poodle and Doodle is adorable! Donna Shepherd's books are perfect for kids (and moms!) of all ages!" - Jill Hart, co-author of So You Want to Be a Work-At-Home Mom: A Christian's Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business,CWAHM.com

"Can a poodle with a diva attitude and a Labradoodle without a pedigree really get along? Poodle and Doodle by Donna Shepherd is a perfectly blended tale mixed with just the right touch of humor. The poodle’s discovery that she does not always have to be “top dog” and that being a friend is important, make this book not only a delightful read, but also teaches children valuable life lessons.

This lovely book, adorned with charming illustrations by Jack Foster, is “pawsitively wonderful” and is sure to be enjoyed by both young and old alike." - Dayna Hilton, (Firefighter Dayna) author of Sparkles the Fire Safety Dog (saddle stitched)

"With its delightful language and charming illustrations, Poodle and Doodle is a picture book that can be read and enjoyed again and again. The story of how Angel, the "perfect" poodle, adjusts to the intrusion of Scruffy, the Labradoodle, will make both children and adults laugh. Donna Shepherd's clever rhymes bring Angel's personality to life, and Jack Foster's artwork adds to the humor. Hidden bones in many of the illustrations keep things fun for multiple readings. The story entertains while teaching good lessons about friendship and change. Great for both home and school libraries!" - Diana R. Jenkins, author of Stepping Stones: The Comic Collection (Diana's blog: DJ's Thoughts)

"In this heartwarming story from a dog’s point of view, children learn it may be hard to accept a newcomer who’s different—but opposites can become best friends. A delightful read-aloud for any kid who loves dogs." - Liz Ball, author/illustrator of Friends Hidden Treasures: Hidden Picture Puzzles

"Poodle and Doodle by Donna J Shepherd is an adorable picture book about a tiny poodle who is upset when her humans bring home a gigantic labradoodle named Scruffy. At first the dainty little dog is upset by the new dog's clumsiness and lack of manners, but eventually she realizes living with Scruffy has advantages.

The book is told in rhyme that's comfortable and not artificially forced, unlike some rhyming picture books I've seen. The colorful illustrations by Jack Foster are perfect portrayals of the cute and amusing story. Poodle and Doodle would appeal to most young kids but it would be especially appropriate for those who love dogs and children coping with sibling rivalry." - Janet Ann Collins, author of Secret Service Saint

"When Scruffy- part Poodle, part Labrador Retriever joins the family, he is snubbed by the family’s dog, a full breed Poodle. Everything Scruffy does is “rude and rough” from eating his food, to eating a sandwich off the kitchen counter. But, the pretty little Poodle soon discovers that having Scruffy around can come in handy, AND that he is actually a good friend. Well written rhyme and colorful illustrations show the dichotomy between these two silly dogs and encourage children to never judge a book a by its cover!" - Jennifer Reed, children’s author

"Donna Shepherd knows that being different from one another can be oodles of fun! Poodle and Doodle's antics will leave you begging for more, and I love the illustrations, too!" - Stephanie Reed, author of The Light Across the River

“Poodle and Doodle will charm most any little guy or girl, with the antics of pets sharing space. Donna’s rocking rhymes tell a believable story with plenty of ‘cute’. The art is especially appealing with simple, bright lines. What a sweet example of how changes in families call for an attitude adjustment. That slightly jealous poodle shows us how she came around to understanding the new Doodle arrival, and accepting what he had to offer! The story is a wonderful character lesson, in doggy disguise.” - April Boyer, author and editor of Seeds in Season Writing Resources

"Here’s a book that both you and the kids will enjoy. Poodle and Doodle by Donna Shepherd tells the story of a prissy poodle that is all upset when her owner brings home a mangy mutt to join the family. Wasn’t she dog enough? Especially when Leah has brought home Scruffy, a large, clumsy and sloppy Labradoodle.

Kids will love following along on this rhyming adventure, made complete with funny and charming illustrations created by Jack Foster. Parents will enjoy the easy way they can teach their young children about acceptance and friendship. And while the characters in this one are dogs, parents could easily relate this story to siblings and the many wonderful quirks brothers and sisters put up with out of love.

Poodle and Doodle will snuggle their way into your child’s heart, just like they did with each other. This is a book that won’t stay on the shelf long because your children will want to read it over and again, just like in our house."- Cheryl Malandrinos, The Children’s and Teens’ Book Connection

"Poodle and Doodle is a fun, cute story that will delight children of all ages, especially those who love dogs. The artwork, done in the computer in bright, happy colors, complements the book perfectly. It has an important underlying message: nobody's perfect and one must always look at the positive side of people--or dogs! My 12-year old daughter also read it and loved it, and although she’s old now for this type of book, she said: “If I were 5 I would ask you to read it to me every night.” Coming from a child, I think that says a lot." - Mayra Calvani, Mayra's Secret Bookcase

"The balance of friendship can be a difficult one to understand. At times one may feel they are overshadowed by a friend and become frustrated. Poodle and Doodle by Donna J. Shepherd explores an unexpected friendship in this delightful rhyming story of two distinctly different dogs.

What comes forth through the eyes of one fancy poodle pup, Angel, is her own insecurities of having another dog around. When Scruffy, a cross between Poodle and Labrador is brought home by their owner, Leah, havoc ensues wherever Scruffy goes. His less than stellar manners appall Angel until the “ah-ha” moment that Scruffy is not so bad and is actually fun to have around.

Shepherd wonderfully brings to life real life issues all humans contend with in finding their place with friends. Most of all, we are all individuals whether canine or human and should appreciate the positives in all we meet.

Illustrator, Jack Foster brings the canine characters to life with their young owner, Leah, making it an adventure to read over and over again." - Donna M. McDine, Children's Author - http://www.donna-mcdine.blogspot.com/; National Writing for Children Center

"Poodle and Doodle is a fun read-a-loud that celebrates the gift found in differences. Loved it!" - Caroline Pignat, author of Greener Grass, WINNER of the Governor General's Award 2009.