This new book is a story inspired by a real live schnauzer named Charlie. Authors, Hillard and Madeline Grusin, a father and daughter team, who write under the pen name of Alex Chandler, had their own Charlie whose endearing devotion and antics and past history of being saved from an abusive home led to a basis upon which the story grew. It is written with middle school age children in mind but its charm and imagination and exciting adventures will also intrigue those of all ages. It has been well received by those who have read it. In the story there is never a dull moment! There will be sequels to this first book that will continue the exciting and mysterious adventures of Charlie and his owner, Sam, a young man who thrives on thrilling new exploits. The villain, Rupert Rottendorf, pops up in episodes throughout the book - and is scheduled to reappear in the sequels. Charlie's obsession with cheese leads him into harrowing experiences along the way. You don't want to miss the excitement!
It has been a pleasure to work with the Grusins on this project and do the 30 illustrations for it. Just the sort of thing I love to do - showing the antics and love and personality of miniature schnauzers. All schnauzer owners will appreciate and relate to Charlie's responses to the challenges. Any dog and animal lover will be amused and children with their vivid imaginations will revel in the exciting mysteries. Those involved in animal rescue groups will relate to Charlie's ordeals in the beginning and be pleased with the outcome of his new home and life.
All artwork on these pages is copyrighted and may not be copied in any form
This is truly a book you will want to add to your collection.
"The Secret Life of Charlie Smart," authored by Alex Chandler, is now available! For further details click on the graphic to the left. Contact information is available.
Also see photo of the real Charlie who
inspired the stories.
CLICK graphic for responses
RESPONSES from Readers
What readers are saying about
"The Secret Life of Charlie Smart"
after reading the book.
BOOK FAIR - see below
BOOK FAIR for Colorado Authors
The Book Fair was held in Denver, CO on Nov 6, 2004 featuring Colorado Authors. Alex Chandler participated and set up her booth to meet attending visitors and present her book, "The Secret Life of Charlie Smart." It was a great success.
She says, " What a wonderful, wonderful event. It was really well organized and celebrity driven. A really great day.
We sold many books and had many inquiries about your artwork. We received an invitation to present the book at a school on November 18."
"Charlie Smart" Display featured
during National Library Week in Denver, CO
Scroll down to see Photo and read about it
"Charlie Smart" is the main display in the children's section of Koelbel Library in Denver, CO during National Library Week. The book is now available in the Arapahoe Library District libraries. The display will be rotated among all the libraries there. Charlie and his balloon were custom made for the occasion. He wears his aviator's helmet and vest.
