Basil’s Quest

A Tale of Dogged Determination

By Gracie H. Vandiver

A Children’s Book That Gives Back!

Basil's Quest Cover Mockup © Gracie H Vandiver

Basil’s Quest, a children’s chapter book for ages 8-12, is a story about resilience and the power of persistence. Told from a dog’s perspective, the book conveys that one’s past need not decide one’s future, but instead can shape it for the better.

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

OFSDS logo - a large green circle with the OFSDS logo - a blockprint dog face/ears in white. underneath the face are the words Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary ofsds.org

Order your copy of “Basil’s Quest, A Tale of Dogged Determination” directly from the author and Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary receives a portion of the proceeds from each sale.

Price includes free shipping within the United States. We’re sorry; we can’t offer shipping outside the U.S.

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an illustration of a black lab, rolled playfully on his back with a tennis ball in his mouth

About The Book

“Basil’s Quest is a beautiful story with wonderful twists and turns. Basil’s determination makes him a loveable character and enriches the book.”
-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.