Ivar's Mackinac Weekend

Service dog Ivar and his Mama Mindy are heading on a special adventure: a family visit to Mackinac Island in Michigan. But exploring new places can lead to anxiety spikes for Mindy. That's where Ivar's job comes in, to support Mindy and help her manage her anxiety. But being a working service dog in a completely new environment brings its own worries for him. Strange sights, smells, and sounds, bustling crowds, and unexpected challenges test his confidence. Can Ivar help Mama Mindy enjoy their adventures while overcoming his own nervousness as they navigate ferry rides, horse-drawn carriages on historic streets, and island adventures? Discover the fascinating history and sights of Mackinac Island, Michigan, with Ivar as only a working service dog can experience it.

"Ivar's Mackinac Weekend" is the third companion book to the award-winning, best-selling Cats in the Mirror series—a heartfelt, empowering story for young readers that celebrates service dogs, mental health awareness, and the power of partnership.

"A touching ode to service animals..." Kirkus Reviews

"Delightful, informative, and thoroughly engaging." June P, NetGalley Reviewer

"Ivar's Mackinac Weekend is such a gem! . . . . Overall, this is a really good example of narrative nonfiction-meets-fiction that is sure to grab the attention of an audience interested in books featuring travel, service dogs/disability rights, and stories that feature true to life adventures!" Librarian Reviewers at NetGalley

"I loved being back in my piece of heaven again. I got to see it through a different perspective though. This was an educational lesson for me as through a service dogs eyes. . . . . 5 stars for describing my favorite place as though I was there." Lori P, NetGalley Reviewer

"The story highlights some of the difficulties that people with anxiety and their service animals can face in everyday life, especially in unfamiliar places. . . . This is a gentle way to talk about service animals and mental health challenges. I enjoy reading animal books, and this one did not disappoint." LitPick 5-Star Review

"This book will surely be treasured by children and their families for years to come." Lindsay DeRollo for Readers' Favorite

"An uplifting story about teamwork, learning a lot about service dogs, and going to new, interesting places--especially with a loyal buddy like Ivar." Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite

"Heartfelt story of empowerment that teaches young readers about service dogs and mental health while instilling the importance of partnership and working together." Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite