All Pets Allowed: Blackberry Farm 2

by Adele Griffin, LeUyen Pham (Illustrator)

More than anything else—even more than the best birthday party ever—Becket Branch wants a dog for her tenth birthday. But her twin brother, Nicholas, has secretly been wishing for a cat. Lucky for Becket and Nicholas, their animal-loving parents have an animal-loving surprise for them: they’re going to the local shelter and adopting both a cat and a dog. It should be the biggest BEAUTIFUL ALERT ever, but Becket’s dream dog, Dibs, turns out to be a super-shy scaredy-pooch who is going to need a lot of training. Meanwhile, Nicholas’s cat, Given, is more outgoing and attention-seeking than the just-for-him pet he was expecting.
 
Laugh along as Becket fishes mice out of Nicholas’s slippers, puts bullies in their place, and tries, and tries again, to train Dibs—all while learning new life lessons and keeping up with her other farm chores.
 
With black-and-white drawings throughout by award-winning illustrator LeUyen Pham (Real Friends), this second volume of the Blackberry Farm series offers a gentle message about embracing new friends who may not match preconceived expectations.

 

Genres: Middle Grade, Childrens, Realistic Fiction, Fiction, Chapter Books, Animals

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2021

About the author

from Wikipedia:

Adele Griffin is the author of over thirty highly-acclaimed books across a variety of genres, including Sons of Liberty and Where I Want to Be, both National Book Award Finalists.

Her debut adult novel The Favor explores themes of friendship, surrogacy, and nontraditional family building.

Find her on TikTok at @adelegriffinbooks and Instagram at @adelegriffin or www.adelegriffin.


website: www.adelegriffin.com


Instagram:
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Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Adele-G...


Open Road Media interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSa3P...

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a gifted advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Algonquin books.

All pets Allowed is the second book in the Blackberry Farm series for children. This book was a delightful read and will really appeal to children who love animals.
Becket and Nicholas are twins who live on a family run farm which has Lamas and chickens.
The twins birthday is coming up and they both get to pick a pet of their own. Both twins are complete opposites and choose a different type of pet each - a dog for Becket and a cat for Nicholas. But the pets they choose don't fit with their personalities or want of what the pet should be like.
The children are excited about planning their party and a fall harvest fair but nothing goes exactly to plan for the twins.
This book was a breath of fresh air and I thoroughly enjoyed it!

[Amy Imogene Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Becket's back with her "Beautiful Alerts" and charming life in the country with this latest installment focused on pets...as well as a poignant message on expectations.

Characters: ★★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★ 1/2

All Pets Allowed is the second book in the Blackberry Farm series, but in good middle grade fashion it's a easy entry point for new readers looking for an adventure.

Having just read the first book, The Becket List, in preparation for this read I found this second book to be a charming upgrade from the first novel—with lots of continued goodness as well as fresh looks at some of the characters and plot.

Becket is a treat to follow. Her enthusiasm and near-eternal positivity are honestly surprising to me as a jaded, pessimistic adult—but that's not Becket's problem, that's on me! I loved being reminded of the optimism and resilience of children. It's an amazing thing.

Overall, I really enjoyed Becket's second journey with her twin brother, Nicolas, and their adventures and unexpected speed bumps on the road toward pet ownership and facing expectations.

As Becket would say, a "Beautiful Alert" for this beautiful story!

Thank you so much to the publisher for my copy in exchange for an honest review.

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[Jill Jemmett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Becket and her twin brother Nicholas are turning ten on their October 10th birthday. Becket wants them to make a joint birthday wish for a dog. However, Nicholas secretly wants a cat. When they’re taken to the animal shelter, their parents surprise them with both getting the pet they want. Becket’s dog is quiet and shy, like Nicholas, while his cat is outgoing like Becket. The twins discover that having pets isn’t as easy as they thought.

This was a fun story about getting a pet. Usually, children’s books show the part leading up to getting the pet, but not necessarily the challenges after the pet is brought home. Becket’s and Nicholas’s pets had personalities that were actually more like their twin. Becket’s dog would go off to have quiet time, just like Nicholas did, and Nicholas’s cat liked to be the life of the party like Becket. They had to adjust to these new lifestyles.

Becket and Nicholas also had to get used to new chores that went along with their pets. Becket had to train her dog, and get him fed in the morning so he would settle down. Nicholas had the shock of finding a dead mouse in his room, a gift from his cat. These are some challenges that come along with a new pet.

All Pets Allowed is a fun middle grade story!

Thank you Algonquin Young Readers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’re back on the farm with Becket Branch and her awesome family. This time Becket and her reserved twin brother Nicholas are turning ten! And Becket has a big birthday wish- she wants a dog to run and play with outside. But Nicolas would prefer a quiet, calm cat.

When their parents surprise them with a trip to the shelter to pick out their own pets, it's one of Becket’s BEAUTIFUL ALERTs. Becket finds a cute little pup she names Dibs and Nicholas finds a big cat he names Given. Once home, the twins discover they chose pets with very opposite personalities from their own. Dibs is a very timid and skittish pup who needs a lot of care, whereas Given loves all the attention and being around others.

𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐝 is a wonderful middle-grade book, great for animal lovers and for teaching compassion. I love the family values the Branches demonstrate as they work together on the farm and do their chores. This book does an excellent job showing that adopting and caring for animals is a commitment; they need time to adjust, and you must give them your time and love. With fun illustrations and great characters, both you and your kids will enjoy this series.

Thank you to @algonquinyr @adelegriffin and @uyenloseordraw for an invitation to the tour and the gifted copies.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough about this series! All Pets Allowed is the second book and it definitely delivers. Becket is so full of love and life that you can't help but want to encourage her and laugh at her one liners. Family and pulling together is the theme that plays out through the story and it is done in a way that I feel will make young readers stop and think in a positive way. This book is great for all and would also be a good choice as a read aloud or family read.

I can't wait to see what comes next for Becket and her family.

[Sascha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Alert! Irrepressible, indomitable, ever-joyous Becket Branch is back in All the Pets Allowed the latest entry in the Blackberry Farms series written by Adele Griffin and illustrated by LeUyen Pham.

Turning 10 on 10/10? That’s a once in a lifetime experience and Becket is hoping for the greatest birthday party to celebrate her and her twin Nicholas’ tenth birthday. For the birthday wish, Becket agrees (not a typo 😉 ) they should both blow out the sparklers on their cake and wish for the present: a dog! But Nicholas who is as much of an introvert as Becket is an extrovert secretly wishes for a cat, a pet who will be quiet and love him. When they set out for the rescue, what will the pet be: Dog, dog, dog! from Becket. Cat, cat, cat! from Nicholas. Both, both, both! Lucky kids!

Nicholas’ choice is a tiger-striped cat who he names Given. Becket’s is a young dog she names Dibs. While Given becomes the star, Dibs is a bit of a scaredy-cat. How did they end up with pets the opposite of what they’d hoped for?

All the Pets Allowed made me smile! Adele Griffin has imbued Becket with so much internal joy that I don’t know how a reader could not feel the glow while reading. The family interactions are warm-hearted and open, and I just loved the family dynamic that Adele has created. They are a loving family with their own humorous quirks. While Becket sometimes comes across like a steamroller, she also possess an intuition about people that is pretty impressive.

The illustrations by LeUyen Pham are so cute and funny and just a delight to see. I, of course, especially loved her dog illustrations, but she is so good at them all.

All the Pets Allowed is one great big Beautiful Alert! and I’m so glad to have experienced it!

The recommended age group is grades 2-6, but frankly anyone needing a spot of happiness should read this book.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Liz (Quirky Cat) · Rating 4 out of 5]

All Pets Allowed: Blackberry Farm 2, written by Adele Griffin and illustrated by LeUyen Pham, is an enchanting middle-grade novel, one that thrilled the pet-loving child within my heart.

All Becket Branch has ever wanted was a dog. Ideally, she'd like to get that dog for her tenth birthday. Meanwhile, her brother, Nicholas, has only ever wanted a cat. Who will get their birthday wish?

As it turns out, both children will be getting the pet of their dreams for their tenth birthday. Better yet, they'll be selecting their new forever friend from the local animal shelter. But will the pets be everything they imagined?

All Pets Allowed: Blackberry Farm 2 is undoubtedly one of the most charming novels I've read in quite some time. I loved everything about this story, from the kids and their parents to the endearing animals they picked out at the shelter.

Speaking of – I love that message woven into the narrative. In fact, many good lessons are being taught in All Pets Allowed: Blackberry Farm 2. Both kids went into the pet parent life with specific expectations – and they had to learn that life (and living creatures) don't always go or behave as planned.

LeUyen Pham illustrations help enhance the whole story for me, bringing the children, their pets, and their adventures to life. It was a sweet touch, and I'm certain that had I read this novel as a child, it would have quickly become one of my favorites.

Thanks to Algonquin Young Readers and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Check out more reviews at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the story of twins who live with their family on a farm, where they keep chickens and lamas and run a farm stand, where they sell their eggs with the help of their grandmother, who used to run the farm by herself, before the family moved there.

The twins are two different personalities, and for a birthday gift, they each get to pick a pet. The introvert, Nicolaus chooses a flamboyant cat, and Becket chooses a dog who loves classical music and to be by himself.

So the story follows the kids around, as they plan a birthday party, and a fall harvest fair, and all the problems that go on with both of them.

It is a cute sort of story, but it just meanders around, going through their lives, which is probably ok that there is no real plot there, but then Beverly Cleary didn't have real plots and she was hugely successful.

The voice of the narrator, Becket, is very real and easy to read, and I'm sure kids will enjoy seeing her preparing for her fantatsic bithday party, and for the harvest vestibal.

I just have one little nig, and that is the chickens, of course, because I have been raising chickens for the past nine years. In one part of the story she goes to the coop to collect eggs, and it is implied that she collects these eggs every morning. She comes out of the coop with 90 eggs. To get 90 eggs from her chickens, she must either have 180 chickens, or she hasn't collected for a few days, and she has 90 chickens. There is no other explanation I can come up with. Nothing wrong with having 180 chickens, but the drawings do now look as though the coop is that large.

But other than that, a good story.

Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.

[Page Grey (Editor) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was invited to be a part of this blog tour via email, but by the publicist herself and not a blog tour host. Seeing that it is a childrens book, I signed up because I thought it would be a nice break from everything I’ve been reading these days. The publicist then sent me a Netgalley link, along with the first book in the series. I’m just so happy to add short books on my Netgalley shelf because they’ll be faster to read and I want my feedback ratio increase. LOL. I just need some reading accomplishment this year, okay? 😂

I read All Pets Allowed right after reading Becket List, book 1 in the series, where I met Rebecca “Becket” Branch who is possibly one of the most cheerful and positive kids in fictionlandia. She says “Beautiful Alert” everytime she sees something beautiful and wants to show to others. She’s very charming and just overall a ball of sunshine. In Becket List, Becket and her family just moved to their grandma’s farm so she had a list on how to be a perfect country girl. (Read my review here to know how that went for Becket) All Pets Allowed centers on Becket and her twin brother Nicholas’ tenth birthday. They both wanted new pets. Becket wants a dog and Nicholas wants a cat. But they didn’t exactly get the kind of dog and cat that they wanted. You see Becket and Nicholas have opposite personalities. Becket is outgoing and cheerful and Nicholas is more reserved, even shy. But then Becket ended up getting a dog that is too shy and needs a LOT of training while Nicholas got a lively cat, when he only wanted something to pet.

This is such a delightful read Both Becket and Nicholas are already in my heart and it’s impossible not to like them. I love the little conflicts throughout the book. They’re fun but of course, for Becket and Nicholas, they’re big deals. This is not just a story of, you know, getting pets and training them. This is actually a story of learning how to embrace new friends even if they’re not what we expected to be.

I think the characters are very well-written and unforgettable. I honestly want to yell, “Beautiful Alert” now everytime I see something beautiful. That would be fun. The book is short but the right size for kids in elementary. But I’m hundred percent sure that even adults will enjoy this book because I did enjoy it.

If you have kids, buy this series for them. you won’t regret it. 🙂

[Melanie Dulaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in the All Pets Allowed series is a cheerful look at twins, a birthday party, and two adopted pets. Becket is an outgoing optimist and is always looking for those things in life that bring a smile, moments that she calls “Beautiful Alerts.” Her twin, Nicholas, is more reserved, prefers small groups, the quiet, and has many insecurities. But the duo always celebrates their birthday together so finding a middle ground is difficult. To complicate the party planning and execution, the cat and dog that the family adopts do not have personalities to match their new owners and Becket and Nicholas must decide what to do about the apparent mistake in their selections. No tense family or social drama here, but there are certainly the usual troublesome classmates, annoying sibling habits, and a whole lot of figuring out how to get along and appreciate one another’s gifts. The vocabulary and length of this middle grade novel seem to place it squarely on bookshelves geared to 3rd to 4th grade students who enjoy animals and fun, realistic fiction. Reading book 1 is absolutely not required in order to enjoy this book. Thanks, author Adele Griffin, for sharing this book with arc-sharing group, #BookAllies.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet book just right for new chapter book readers starting in the lower elementary grades. It has the right amount of cuteness and silliness with a family who works together and cooperates, but of course doesn't always see eye to eye. It focused on realizing and understanding each other's differences and learning to push against your parameters to help yourself. With siblings and pets, it's a story that most kids will enjoy. There has to be a bully, but there's a lesson there too. Just the right amount of cute, fun illustrations help it along.

I would recommend this book as a read aloud in the classroom or at home and for individual readers who can figure out a few multisyllabic words. (I received it in a goodreads giveaway. Thanks!)

[Nancy Shepherd · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received my copy free through goodreads. I really enjoyed that competitive relationship between the siblings. This is one book I am anxious to share with the children in my family. I think they will see themselves here!

[Deb Aronson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very very cute and will find the first one in the series. I plan to review this for Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette next chance I get.

[Beth Yeary]

A rather nice read.

[Steph Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author and Amanda Dissinger at Algonquin Young Readers. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*


Becket and the Branch family return for another adventure, and this time the twins are turning ten!

Becket is desperate for a big twin-ten birthday party, with lots of guests and noise and games, and her ultimate present of the perfect Beautiful Alert! dog. Nicholas, her twin brother, who prefers quiet family time and cats, is not so sure. Luckily for the Branch twins, their parents are ready to grant both pet-wishes, but are Becket’s Dibs and Nicholas’s Given the ideal companions they were hoping for, or will they find out that it is okay to have different tastes and personalities after all?

Another lovely family-and-animal adventure story from Adele Griffin, in which Becket learns to appreciate other people (and animals) just as they are, see things from other points of view, how to work as a team and how to ask for help when needed (although, being Becket, it’s more telling than asking!).

I would have loved a wild, loud, extroverted heroine like Becket in my childhood. Looking back it seems like most of the “good” characters in my favourite books were quite quiet and sensible: the Pevensies; Joe, Beth and Fanny; Val Taylor; Veronica Weston; 3/4 March girls… the closest I really got to a literary harum-scarum was Anne Shirley or Jo March! That’s not to say that Becket is a ‘wild child’ either though – she shows great responsibility and thoughtfulness, and a willingness to learn and grow, that make her a wonderful role model for those children who happen to have a little trouble with VOLUME CONTROL!

Minishine’s thoughts: I still really like Caroline… she reminds me of me! Becket wasn’t really very kind to Nicholas at the beginning of the story but then she started listening to him properly and that was better. My favourites are the animals, though, definitely. I love both Dibs AND Given and I think I would get on well with both of them. Our dog Murphy is very playful and clever, but chews stuff up. And one of our cats is a bit grumpy but sensible and kind, and the other is not very clever but super cuddly and loving and scared of everything, so I think that you can love all different personalities different but the same. Which is kind of what Becket found out too. I hope there will be more Becket books because all the family are so lovely and interesting and I want to see what Becket learns next.

Babybows’ thoughts: They ARE all good characters, but the animals are the best definitely. I was sad about Mr Fancypants getting old, but I like the new pets too. I wonder if they’ll just keep on getting more and more pets now? Maybe they could get a big smelly pig to look after?! That would be SO funny!!!



‘"Follow your heart, Nicholas,” says Mom.
“Follow my heart a little bit, too,” I add.
Nicholas’s voice is very small. “Okay,” he says. “As long as it’s not too noisy, and you keep Travis away from me, and I don’t have to play any ball sports, I guess I’ll be fine.” He looks at Mom. “So I take it back. We don’t need a family party. I’m cohosting with Becket. Top Ten Ten Takeover! Just like how we planned.”
“Thanks, Nicholas!” When I fling out my arms to hug him, I knock his fidget spinner out of his hand. Nicholas catches it just in time. “This will be the best party ever, promise!”
Nicolas nods and clears his throat. “Best party ever,” he echoes, but his owl-wide eyes look like he’s imagining all the ways it will go wrong.’

– Adele Griffin, All Pets Allowed


Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...

[Carolyn Bragg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Becket is a girl who is very energetic and full of enthusiasm. Her twin, Nicholas is almost her opposite. When they plan for their 10th birthday party, Becket wants lots of outdoor games and noise. Nicholas wants a quiet day with one friend.

When their "lifetime wish" to have a pet comes true, the pets they choose (one each) cause a shake-up! The story is also about their close family, and their recent move to a home on a farm.

The story is sweet at times, and interesting,
but it doesn't read like the thoughts of a 10-year old girl in my opinion. In some parts, her comments or actions seem far too young. For instance, does a 10-year old girl think she's finished running, then her sneakers decide to run another "loop" around a building? And also use the words mischievous and chromosomes?

The dialogue and story is occasionally choppy, and some of the twin's thoughts and actions do not seem to match their age. (When the studious Nicholas asks questions about things he should know, or either one is thinking through a situation and uses too much detail. It happens too often.)

I would ignore these things for the sake of the story, but they jarred me out of the otherwise fun narrative.

Relationships and personalities are at the heart of this book. Learning to use skills and develop new ones. But mostly to accept others because they are different--not in spite of being different.

A good chapter book for young readers (approx. ages 7-14); my opinion only.

4/5 Stars

Thanks to the publisher snd NetGalley for the preview of this fun ebook story!

#AllPetsAllowedBlackberryFarm2 #NetGalley


Note for the publisher: I believe it is damaging to a person's trust when possessions are donated without the owner's permission (although well meaning). Learning from the consequences and rewards of making choices is a much more effective teacher. In the book, the mother was donating what she thought was grandma's recipe box, but she failed to look inside, and it was full of priceless old photos! And Becket found her chewed and damaged penguin toy (valuable to her, but not worth selling).

No individual should be made to feel that their possessions could disappear--especially at the hands of a loved-one--to donate, give away, or sell. I consider it stealing.

[Rajiv · Rating 4 out of 5]

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The Bedazzling Branch family is back with our adorable heroine Becket as she deals with a new pet in her life.

What I like about this series is its feel-good aspect. It is refreshing to read a simple book about family values in farm life, and I like how the author captured them in the story. I enjoyed Becket in this book and felt she had become more mature from book one. It is always nice to see characters showing growth in the series. Becket seems to take on more responsibility as she starts caring for Dibs. More than that, I liked how protective she was of her brother when he finds a dead mouse and needs her help.

Moreover, the author also imparts lovely messages in the story about patience and persistence. Even though Dibs is challenging to manage, Becket never gives up trying her best to teach him and make him better. Yes, she does get down when she sees how Given is adapting quickly, but I loved how the author positively wrote her. Also, the author shows how strong a family can work together in a structured manner. On a side note, I also liked the concept of “weeding and needing.” The author also progresses the story nicely, where Becket gets a shock towards the end.

Similar to the previous book, the illustrations by LeUyen Pham are beautiful and blend with the storyline nicely. Overall, “All Pets Allowed” is a lovely addition to the “Blackberry Farm” series. I hope the author continues to write many more in the series.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

All Pets Allowed is the second book in The Blackberry Farm series, and it continues to follow the lives of the Branch family living on their family farm. The family continues to look after the many animals on the farm, along with the animals that Becket’s parents look after at the vets. The twins birthday is coming up and all they want is a pet each – a dog for Becket and a cat for Nicholas. When they get their perfect birthday presents, their pets are completely opposite to their respective personalities and not what they expected from their pets. Of course there’s a story and lesson that goes with their new pets. Becket is planning their joint 10th birthday party when she learns that Nicholas only wants a family dinner, and would rather miss out on their joint twin birthday party, much to Becket’s dismay. This is where Becket truly learns how different her and her twin brother are and how to make a party that is suited to both parties.

I loved the two major aspects of the book – the gaining of new pets and also the joint party. Nicholas wants a calm, introverted cat to love him and spend lots of time with him, and Becket wants a fun, extroverted dog. Nicholas’ cat, Given, is an extroverted cat who just purely loved attention from anyone and everyone, whereas, Becket’s dog, Dibs, is scared of new people and likes to run and hide from people. These animals are completely opposite to their owners personalities. This leads to the twins to learn about themselves and how to gain their animals trust and do what is best for them, which also teaches these children wonderful life lessons, which in turns teaches them about their fellow twin.

From here, the joint birthday party was a story line aspect that I totally understood where Nicholas was coming from, as I’m not a major fan of my birthday on a good day, let alone to have a massive party. I liked how Becket learnt that being able to compromise with her brother so both of them could have a great birthday was important, so she got a massive party with lots of attention, and Nicholas got to experience some joy from this party but also being able to take a step back and have a calmer day away from all the attention with a friend of his.

I was lucky enough to finish the first book and then be able to read this second novel straight away, and continue with this wonderful family and story line. I thought the first novel was such a joyful read, but this one jumped off where the first one finished and it was even more beautiful. This book reminds me how pure and enthusiastic kids can be and reading from the eyes of a child’s perspective is so wonderful to be reminded what it’s like to be a kid again, and not my pessimistic adult self. I cannot wait for the next book in the series if there’s going to be another one of course! I hope there is oh my gosh!

Thank you very much to the Algonquin Young Readers for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review and allowing me to participate in the blog tour.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

All Pets Allowed is the second installment detailing adventures that take place on Blackberry Farm. I loved the delightful illustrations from LeUyen Pham--they were a fabulous part of the book!

Having left the city behind for winding roads and a slower pace of life, Becket and Nicholas are super excited about the prospect of picking out pets when they reach their next birthday.
Becket and her twin brother, Nicholas, could not be any more opposite. This becomes obvious in how they celebrate their birthday, how they spend their free time and even how they select a pet. After bringing home their fur friends, they discover that their pets may also be opposites.

As Becket and Nicholas learn to care for their respective pets, they learn some people lessons, too--about themselves and others. They navigate how to tolerate an annoying classmate, learn to let go of things they don't need, learn new skills and most importantly learn to work together as a family. I like how the book introduces the concept of family identity and how each family is unique and special because it is made up of people who have unique gifts.

I love the intergenerational influence of having grandmother live nearby. For readers who are concerned about the environment, they will find a green advocate in Becket. Being environmentally responsible was a strong theme woven throughout the book.

All Pets Allowed is the second book that takes place on Blackberry Farm. While readers will have no problem jumping into the further adventures of Becket and her family, I recommend reading the first book, The Becket List, as well to understand how the children came to live at the farm. I hope there will be more adventures to come for the Branch family!

Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of All Pets Allowed from Algonquin Books for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.

[Leelynn (Sometimes Leelynn Reads) ❤ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Adele Griffin and Algonquin Young Readers for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.


Ahh both of these books were so cute! I’m so glad that I got to read both of them. I also have to give a huge shoutout to LeUyen Pham for these beautiful illustrations. A part of me wishes that YA books had more illustrations so we can experience it like this! Just a thought, publishers.

Not only did this book make me wish that I could go back to Guam when my grandparents had an active farm life – imagine my mom and her siblings helping out around the farm with all the farm animals surrounding the place – and see how it was back then. I know farm life is no joke and not easy at all, so it would have been such an interesting experience to actually participate. Sometimes a part of me wishes that I had that much land that I could allow the dogs to run around freely in a yard that’s much bigger than we have right now, and maybe a couple of horses and a stable. I think that’s the girl in me that has always wanted to have a horse and learn how to take care of it and have that kind of life.

We have the Branch siblings wanting to add some domestic animals to their family. Becket wants a dog, and her twin brother Nicholas wants a cat. Will a cat and a dog be able to get along with one another, let alone the rest of the animals? It works out in their favor that both parents are huge animal lovers, so think some positive thoughts on how that would turn out. Again this was such a cute story and I definitely recommend reading both of them.

[Lucy Catten · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by the publisher – Algonquin Books.

Meet the busy, animal-mad, Branch Family! Mum and dad Branch are both vets and they live happily together with their three children – Caroline, Becket and Nicholas – on Blackberry Farm.

As the story opens, Becket and Nicholas are busy planning for their 10th birthday party – or at least Becket is. We very quickly realise that although Becket and Nicholas are twins, they are very different from each other. Whereas Becket is outgoing and loud, thriving in the company of others, Nicholas is more introverted and is quietly dreading the planned birthday party that his entire class has been invited to.

Each year, for their birthday, they receive a special gift from their parents. This year, Becket is desperate for a dog to join their family. Nicholas however, really wants a cat. When their parents agree that they can both have what they want, both children are ecstatic and they can’t wait to visit the shelter to choose their respective new pets.

‘Given’ the cat (because she’s a gift) and ‘Dibs’ the dog join the family but it doesn’t quite go the way the children were expecting… Whereas Nicholas was expecting a cat to be like him – quiet and happy with his own company, Given is quite the opposite. She is HUGE (and utterly gorgeous thanks to the fabulous illustrations by Leuyen Pham!) and likes nothing more than being the centre of attention. Dibs too, is not what Becket expected. He adores her, but is nervous of others and is more likely to run away and hide than want to be involved in the action.

This is a charming story of friendship and acceptance which gave me Enid Blyton feels. It was lovely to read about a really strong family unit who all pull together. It is bound to appeal to children – particularly those who love animals. I was lucky enough to be sent the first in the series too, so I will be reading that this week before taking both into school to introduce to my class. Thank you to Algonquin Books and to Adele Griffin for helping to make young readers.

This is out on 4th October – pre-order your copy now!

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every page packs energy and surprises as this character refuses to be steered away from achieving her goals.

Becket and her twin brother are about to celebrate their tenth birthdays...and it just so happens to fall on the tenth of the tenth month. Convinced this can only be the true sign of luck, Becket decides to celebrate big time no matter what her brother's wishes are. She also has decided that the two of them will make a certain, twin-birthday wish. But things don't quite go as planned...they might just turn out better, but with surprises, she might or might not be able to master.

I did read the first book in this series, but it's not necessary to read it as a series. While the first book does set the stage for the farm, characters and such, it was still no problem to dive right into this book. In other words, it can be read as a stand alone.

To say Becket is full of spunk is an understatement. She's a character, which says what she wants and doesn't let others barely get a word in edge-wise. Her determination and energy are inspirational, although this is also what causes her troubles. She's got a good heart, but sometimes, looses sight of what others might feel around her. Her over-eagerness gets her into interesting situations, and it's hard not to feel for her twin brother as he tries his best to often steer clear. Still, the sibling relationship is golden and full of ups and downs.

The text is appropriate for the intended audience, and thanks to the lovely illustrations sprinkled everywhere, tons of fun to read. There's never a boring moment.

[SandyKay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a gifted advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Algonquin books.

Fun examples of creative problem solving and compromise to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.
Throughout the book, Becket is very outgoing and exuberant. I was concerned that her character would be overbearing and overshadow everyone else. I am happy to admit that I was wrong. She IS a very energetic ten-year-old, but she is very good at also including her siblings and her friends in her excitement. She is great at working in a team and also helps to make sure some of her quieter friends are also involved in making decisions.

GREAT lessons about learning to understand someone who does not think or act like you.
Both Branch twins get the pet they’ve dreamed of getting, although that dream pet doesn’t have the personality they thought it would. Pets and family alike get a lesson in learning to recognize when your wishes are not the same as someone else’s – even if you think yours is best.

I definitely recommend this book for the fun, the humor, and the amazing ways Becket and Nicholas work together and each learn to embrace their own strengths.


Stars 4
Would I Recommend? Yes

[Jade Melody · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to Algonquin Young Readers for the opportunity to be a part of the book tour for the release of All Pets Allowed!

This was such a great read! It had adorable animals and unique characters. A perfect read for someone looking for a read that includes animal adoption (dogs and cats!).

The characters in this book are drastically different. Becket is very loud and boisterous while her twin Nicholas is quiet and reserved. Both are turning 10 this October and want one thing... a dog! Or that is what Becket has tried to convince her brother. Instead they both end up wishing for two different pets; a dog and a cat! To their surprise, their parents both let them adopt the animal of their choice from their local shelter. But this doesn't go exactly how they both anticipated. Becket ends up with a shy and nervous dog while Nicholas ends up with a talented, outgoing and popular cat. Very different from who they are. Hopefully these animals will be able to fit into the family without causing too much trouble!

I really enjoyed this book! It was such a fun and quick read. I would definitely recommend to any children or middle grade readers!

[Brooke - TheBrookeList · Rating 3 out of 5]

Blackberry Farm features an animal-loving family. Becket loves animals and cares for many on their family farm. She's convinced her more shy and anxious twin, Nicholas, to help her in wishing for a dog for their birthday. He doesn't really want all the same things as she does, and wishes instead for a cat. They both end up getting their wish, and lots of fun animal adventures ensue as they learn what their animal friends (and family members) really need.

I enjoyed seeing the Branch family pull together, but the book felt a smidge long for an early reader, considering the plot was pretty simple. I thought Becket was an interesting and spunky character, but she was a little over-the-top and the rest of the characters felt a little flat. I didn't love the portrayal of her relationship with her sister, Caroline, and the parents seemed a little disengaged from the story (for me). To be fair, I may have liked the book more, had I read the Becket List.

Checked out at library and reviewed in consideration for Cybils Award Early Chapter Book shortlist for 2021.

[E, J & R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becket and Nicholas’ 10th birthday is coming up. Becket is spunky little girl that’s full of life and adventure. Her twin rather live in a calm environment and play his cello. They both have a big wish for their birthday but it is not the same wish like Becket believed. Their birthday will bring plenty of laughs, friendship and a lovely surprise. Those surprises will lead to even better and bigger things.

Pick up Book 2 of the Blackberry Farm series. Book one, The Becket List was just as wonderful. Share with your children, friends’ kids, students, etc. It is funny, lovely, a great family and wonderful friends. Thank you for your support.

-Rebeca

[Ashley Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute book! My son & I really enjoyed reading it together. We both loved the story and the pictures added to the fun of reading. We’ll definitely be reading more books by this author.





I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It's well-written and fun. I did notice some inconsistencies in the art and text.

[Rebecca Heywood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very quick read. I love animal books, no matter how corny.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was definitely not disappointed in this second book in this series for children. Becket and her brother Nicholas and her sister Caroline are all back. This story revolves around Beckets and Nicholas tenth birthday party and a Halloween fair at school. There are lots of laughs in the story. I really like this group of kids. I received a copy of this book from Algonquin for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.