When I started reading The Tales of Charlie Wags by Ali Barclay and Sofie Wells, I knew I was in for a treat. Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book to share my opinion, and let me tell you, it’s the kind of story that makes you forget you’re reading on a screen—it’s that engaging!
MY REVIEW
The Tales of Charlie Wags by Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay is a short, adventurous story that had me hooked from the start. Charlie has a secret: he can wag his tail and travel anywhere he likes! Set in the vibrant streets of New York City, this book is packed with fun and laughs.
The beautiful watercolor illustrations by Sanna Sjöström are a highlight of the book. They bring Charlie’s world to life with a soft, childlike quality that perfectly complements the story’s warm and whimsical tone.
The best part? The page at the end with “Paws and Learn” and “Landmarks Unleashed.” It’s like a bonus round of fun facts about all the places Charlie explored. The font is playful but easy to read—it’s the little details that make this book stand out.
My only complaint? I wish it was longer! Charlie’s adventures were so fun and full of heart, I didn’t want to say goodbye. If you love animals, adventures, or just a good story, this book is perfect. It’s the kind of story that’ll leave you smiling—and maybe even looking for the next big adventure in your own life.
ABOUT THE BOOK
The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City
Written by Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay
Illustrated by Sanna Sjöström
Ages: 3-7 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Kendam Press (2025) | ISBN: 979-8-9900050-0-6
Publisher’s Book Summary: Charlie Wags is a seemingly ordinary pup. He sits on demand, is appropriately needy, and only sometimes begs for treats.
But Charlie has an extraordinary secret. He loves to travel the world and has a special trick to do so: his wagging tail can whisk him away to far-off places.
This time, he’s off to the Big Apple!
Embark on a panoramic tour of New York City led by ever-curious pup Charlie Wags! From the serenity of Central Park to the dazzling lights of Times Square, Charlie explores the city that never sleeps before returning home for bedtime.
Wherever you may be, The World Is Just a Wag Away.™
PURCHASE LINK
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Sister-author duo Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay form the writing team behind The Tales of Charlie Wags picture book series.
As daughters of immigrants, their family heritage exposed the sisters to the importance of cultural diversity early on. Their parents prioritized showing them the world, even on a tight budget, instilling in them the idea that travel is one of the best forms of education.
Knowing that not all children had the chance to explore the world firsthand, they put pen to paper to create a tale about a globetrotting dog. They hoped their story would allow young readers to experience the wonders of the world without ever having to leave their homes.
Their series mission is simple: provide a conversational understanding of the world’s most famous cities through charming stories that make far-off places accessible to every child and family.
For more information, check out charliewags.com
https://www.instagram.com/thetalesofcharliewags
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564606622559
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Sanna Sjöström, known professionally as Sannadorable, has loved art her whole life. With an extensive background in watercolor painting, she found it increasingly difficult to find the time and energy for her art after having children. Realizing how quickly she could access her iPad, Sanna began experimenting with digital art, skillfully mimicking the look of watercolor.
Today, Sanna illustrates children’s books and also creates posters, cards, and digital illustration tools. Through her creations, she aims to bring joy and smiles to people’s faces.
Sanna’s distinctive style—rooted in her deep appreciation for nature and her love for finding beauty in the ordinary—brings iconic cities to life in enchanting, rose-colored hues throughout The Tales of Charlie Wags series.
https://www.instagram.com/sannadorable
ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
Enter our giveaway for a chance to win a hardcover copy of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City, personalized by Charlie Wags himself! One lucky winner will also receive Charlie Wags greeting cards, coloring pages, and a $100 gift card to Amazon.
The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City: Book GiveawayTOUR SCHEDULE
| Monday, January 6, 2025The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Tuesday, January 7, 2025Confessions of a Book AddictBook Spotlight on The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Wednesday, January 8, 2025icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Thursday, January 9, 2025Life is What It’s CalledAuthor Interview with Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay |
| Friday, January 10, 2025@avainbooklandBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Monday, January 13, 2025Country Mamas With KidsGuest post about The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Wednesday, January 15, 2025Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Thursday, January 16, 2025Mrs. Makes Reading FunBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Friday, January 17, 2025Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Monday, January 20, 2025Deliciously SavvyGuest post about The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Tuesday, January 21, 2025The Fairview ReviewBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Wednesday, January 22, 2025Q&As with Deborah KalbAuthor Interview with Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay |
| Thursday, January 23, 2025Twirling Book PrincessBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Friday, January 24, 2025One More ExclamationAuthor Interview with Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay |
| Monday, January 27, 2025Cover Lover Book ReviewBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Tuesday, January 28, 2025Froggy Read TeachBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Wednesday, January 29, 2025A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Thursday, January 30, 2025Pages for PaigeBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
| Friday, January 31, 2025The Starlit PathBook Review of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City |
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