About the Book

Author: George Paul
Genre: Early Chapter Book
Number of Pages: 50
Publisher: Whiskers & Tails Publishing
Publication Date: July 25, 2016
Synopsis: The Adventures of Reece & Rusty - The Fish Wish is a charming story about friendship, responsibility, and inspiration, with a magical touch that will leave all readers highly entertained. The Fish Wish, the first adventure in the series, introduces the reader to the Spellmans, a lovable, seemingly ordinary family who are anxiously anticipating a momentous event in their child's life. Reece Spellman, who just turned seven, finally convinces his parents to get him a pet, but he is not very happy with their choice. Reece's mother tells him, "If you can take care of this fish and show the proper responsibility, you will get a larger pet in the near future." Little did she know how prophetic those words would soon become.
Reece Spellman's new best friend, a pet fish, begins to stare at the outside world from his fish tank with a look of despair. The external forces of a glass wall and water that separate their two very different worlds begin to impede the progression of their relationship, but that is about to be changed forever by a seemingly innocent childhood WISH. Was it MAGIC? Or, was it just pure COINCIDENCE?
The Adventures of Reece & Rusty, Volume 1- The Fish Wish. It is approximately 2,300 words on 32 pages with 16 vibrant and cartoony illustrations. The storyline is quite unique, embedded with humor and wonderment along with character concepts that are appealing to readers of all ages. Additionally, there is a puzzle-solving learning component specifically designed to make the reading and educational experience more rewarding and fun.
From George Paul the Author: "The main reason I wrote this story was to express to children that they should never give up on their wishes and dreams, and to relish the journey of achieving them. Furthermore, as a parent myself, I know that there is nothing more gratifying than to see your child show responsibility, kindness, and demonstrate moral values. The Adventures of Reece & Rusty embraces this theme along with common life experiences and events intertwined with magical and humoristic overtones with a puzzle-solving learning component."
My Review

Reece is getting a new pet and he's anxious to see what his dad has picked out. However, when his dad returns home with a fish Reece is very disappointed. Reece's dad explains that owning a pet is a very big responsibility and Reece must prove he's capable of being a good pet owner. Reece can't wait to show his parents he's up for the challenge. It's not long before Reece and Rusty are the best of friends so when Rusty seems down Reece is eager to cheer him up. Mom buys a treasure chest for Rusty's tank, but Reece never expected what happened next.
I found The Adventures of Reece & Rusty: The Fish Wish to be a wonderful story that teaches children about the importance of being responsible, helping others, and being a good friend. The book is well organized and presented in an appealing manner and the illustrations are vividly detailed adding to the enjoyment.
I recommend picking up a copy.
About the Author

For as long as George can remember, he has always loved working with and mentoring children at day camps, recreational sport leagues, and travel sports. When George became a parent, he was sure to be involved with his own kids’ activities. He was the head coach for his son’s recreational and travel baseball teams for 12 years. Additionally, George always volunteered to be a chaperone on his kids’ field trips and would always welcome an invite to visit the school to read books to the class, supervise parties, etc.
George and his family love animals and have had many pets over the years including dogs, cats, rabbits, fish, turtles, and even a degu—and they all have added something very special to their lives. The whole family advocates for pet rescue and adoption and helps support several animal organizations across the country.