Ragdolly's Love — Donald W. Kruse

Forewords by Alex Trebek and Robert Wagner. This is a story for listeners and readers ages six and up about a little girl named Dolly who couldn't smile. Beautifully illustrated throughout. The author will donate a portion of his proceeds from this book to The Smile Train where these funds will give children with a cleft-palate the 45-minute surgery they so desperately need. THE MIRACLE WE TAKE FOR GRANTED: Have you ever listened to children playing and frolicking around a lake on a hot, lazy summer afternoon? Their laughter and squeals of joy can be heard clear around the lake, as they catch a frog with their bare hands; reel in another perch; run and dive off the end of a dock; or gleefully swim and splash in the water. Theirs is a world full of fun and wonderment, as laughter and big, beautiful smiles fill their day. But then there's another world-a world where the children have absolutely nothing to laugh or smile about. They have no fun, no joy, no wonder, and no hope. Indeed, some of these children don't even have the ABILITY to smile, even if they wanted to. 'Ragdolly' is one of these children. Thankfully, people like me and YOU-regardless of our age-have the ability to help these children. We have only to open our hearts and let our love guide us in the right direction and do the right thing. Because whatever we put out there, is exactly what we'll get back in our own lives-sooner or later. As you read this book, please remember: Every day, each and every one of us has something we can give away-something that costs us absolutely nothing. A smile! A smile is the universal language, and everyone deserves a chance to 'speak' that language, including children like 'Ragdolly.' There has never been a better time to help these children. -The Author ABOUT THE AUTHOR -- Donald W. Kruse lives in Mt. Prospect, IL with his wife of 38 years, Marilyn, and their two dogs, Oscar and Itchy Rat. In 1981 and 1982 Donald was totally disabled with vasculitis. With nothing else to do while convalescing at home, he bought a typewriter and a how-to book on typing. He enrolled in a home-study course for writing children's books and began writing and selling stories shortly thereafter. Today his vasculitis is in remission and his passion for writing thrives. His inspiration comes from his four grandchildren, all of whom affectionately call him 'Beebs.' Besides writing, he loves to build ... anything from boat shelves to houses!