Basil’s Quest

A Tale of Dogged Determination

By Gracie H. Vandiver


Basil's Quest Cover Mockup © Gracie H Vandiver
“Basil’s Quest is a beautiful story with wonderful twists and turns.”
-Emily D., Age 10

“Basil is really sweet and it made me want to adopt him. This book is really inspiring.”
-Genevieve, Age 9

“Basil’s Quest was one of the best books I’ve ever read . . . well, that my dad read to me.”
-Brontë, Age 9

Life is complicated whether you’re a human or a dog, and it’s no different for Basil, a mixed-breed Labrador retriever.

Basil doesn’t want much: just a forever home where he can love and be loved in return. Told from a rescue dog’s perspective, this children’s chapter book by Gracie Vandiver, is packed with humor and adventure.

When lovable Basil escapes from his yard in search of a better life one too many times, his owner surrenders him to the care of a neighbor. Jolie, who’s involved in animal rescue, then reaches out to her friend, Hannah, who owns a doggie day care center. Together they strategize on finding Basil a loving forever home. And so, Basil’s fresh start in life begins.

Through self-awareness and inner strength, Basil demonstrates that his difficult and unhappy past need not decide his future, but instead can shape it for the better. Rather than stopping him in his (dog) tracks, each challenge makes him even more determined to succeed. Sure, he has off days — doesn’t everybody? — but Basil’s courage, perseverance, and positive attitude pull him through, along with the help of some very special humans.

The message of Basil’s Quest is simple. The healing power of love can conquer obstacles and overcome adversity.

Recommended for ages 8-12, Basil’s Quest, A Tale of Dogged Determination, includes six black-and-white illustrations to help children visualize Basil in his adventures. Basil’s Quest is a charming dog story with a happy ending. It will resonate with young readers, enabling them, by example, to face their own obstacles and setbacks in life.

Basil's Quest Cover Mockup © Gracie H Vandiver

“Basil’s Quest is a beautiful story with wonderful twists and turns.”
-Emily D., Age 10

Life is complicated whether you’re a human or a dog, and it’s no different for Basil, a mixed-breed Labrador retriever.

Basil doesn’t want much: just a forever home where he can love and be loved in return. Told from a dog’s perspective, this children’s chapter book by Gracie Vandiver, is packed with humor and adventure.

When lovable Basil escapes from his yard in search of a better life one too many times, his owner surrenders him to the care of a neighbor. Jolie, who’s involved in animal rescue, then reaches out to her friend, Hannah, who owns a doggie day care center. Together they strategize on finding Basil a loving forever home. And so, Basil’s fresh start in life begins.

Through self-awareness and inner strength, Basil demonstrates that his difficult and unhappy past need not decide his future, but instead can shape it for the better. Rather than stopping him in his (dog) tracks, each challenge makes him even more determined to succeed. Sure, he has off days — doesn’t everybody? — but Basil’s courage, perseverance, and positive attitude pull him through, along with the help of some very special humans.

The message of Basil’s Quest is simple. The healing power of love can conquer obstacles and overcome adversity.

Recommended for ages 8-12, Basil’s Quest, A Tale of Dogged Determination, includes six black-and-white illustrations to help children visualize Basil in his adventures. Basil’s Quest is a charming dog story with a happy ending. It will resonate with young readers, enabling them, by example, to face their own obstacles and setbacks in life.

Order a signed copy of Basil’s Quest for yourself or to give as a gift!

Buy an autographed copy of “Basil’s Quest” directly from the author. Price includes free shipping within the United States.

Cover Style
Autograph book to:
an illustration of a black lab, rolled playfully on his back with a tennis ball in his mouth

Praise for Basil’s Quest

an illustration of a black lab, sitting politely by a red dog food dish labeled Basil © Gracie H Vandiver

“I thoroughly enjoyed reading Basil’s story and was rooting for him with the turn of every page. I appreciate the work the author did to ensure that the rescue was accurately portrayed. She could have shied away from some of the difficult stuff but she didn’t make it easy, she made it real. You, too, will fall in love with Basil!”

 – Elizabeth Chauncey, Founder,
President, East C.A.N.

“Basil’s Quest is a touching story of a dog desperately wanting a forever home. He endures bullying, rejection, and adapting to unfamiliar situations with courage and heart. Basil’s Quest offers rich opportunities for discussion and understanding. The book will be enjoyed by all readers, but especially those with a love of animals.”

– Martha Geel, Retired 3rd & 4th Grade Teacher,
Ridgeway Elementary, Columbia, MO

“While telling the heartwarming story of Basil, a gentle, mixed-breed rescue dog, Ms. Vandiver teaches young readers about the shelter and rescue system, caring for a dog, and the value of a loving, forever home. Basil’s Quest also encourages kindness, compassion, and the appreciation of dogs of all breeds, sizes, and colors. While this book is intended for young folks, it is a delightful read for the entire family.”

– Zina Goodin, Co-founder,
Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary

“Basil’s Quest is a compelling story told from a pup’s perspective about compassion, patience, and healing. Basil shows us how to forgive and love again, especially when bullying is discussed. It serves as a friendly reminder that bullying is hurtful to everyone, not just children. It’s a story with uplifting highs, lonely lows, and a happy ending. Highly recommended.”

– Tara Rose, Guest Educator,
Enriched Schools, Nashville, TN

“This book is a wonderful way to be a dog for a few moments. Young readers will learn what a lucky dog experiences on its journey to its forever home.”

– Kelly Jennings, Retired Children’s Services
Coordinator, Tulsa City-County Library

“This book will surely help young readers to understand the importance of love, care, and responsibility for animals in our lives by giving a glimpse into their hearts and minds.”

– Vickie Harris, Director,
Music City Animal Rescue

“Basil’s Quest is a beautiful story and a delight to read. From the opening lines of the book, I was drawn into Basil’s world and his search for a forever home. He meets many people on his path, some loving and some indifferent, but through it all he trusts that he will end up where he is supposed to be. I found myself identifying with Basil and his journey because isn’t a safe, cozy home, and good people in our lives what we all want?”

– Susan Kelley, Founder,
Bow Wow Film Festival