Mabel and the Boys
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Mabel and the Boys
The Backyard Mystery (Book 2)
by Don Sanderson
The Backyard Mystery
A Dog and Her Boys Series
What starts as a normal day quickly turns into an unexpected adventure when the boys discover something strange in their backyard. Unfamiliar tracks, hidden clues, and curious sounds spark their imagination—and a mystery begins to unfold.
In The Backyard Mystery, Mabel, the loyal and watchful dog, senses that something isn’t quite right. With her steady presence and keen instincts, she stays close as Jack, Otie, and Coen set out to uncover the truth. Each boy plays an important role—Jack leads with growing confidence, Otie asks thoughtful questions, and little Coen brings wonder to every moment.
As they follow the clues, the boys learn that solving a mystery takes more than curiosity—it requires teamwork, courage, and trust. Along the way, they discover that some of the greatest adventures happen not far from home, but right where they are.
Perfect for young readers and families, this heartwarming story celebrates friendship, discovery, and the special bond between a dog and the boys she loves.
The Backyard Mystery
A Dog and Her Boys Series
What begins as an ordinary day quickly turns into an unforgettable adventure when the boys stumble upon something unusual in their own backyard.
In The Backyard Mystery, Mabel—the loyal, watchful, and ever-faithful dog—is once again at the center of the action. With her keen instincts and steady presence, she senses that something isn’t quite right. When Jack, Otie, and Coen begin to notice strange clues—unfamiliar tracks, hidden objects, and unexplained sounds—their curiosity grows into a full-fledged mystery.
Together, the boys set out to uncover the truth.
But this isn’t just a story about solving a puzzle—it’s about learning to work together, to listen carefully, and to trust both wisdom and courage when the unknown feels close at hand. As the mystery unfolds, each boy brings something unique to the journey: Jack’s growing leadership, Otie’s thoughtful questions, and Coen’s innocent wonder. And through it all, Mabel remains a constant guide—protective, perceptive, and always near.
As the clues come together, the boys discover that sometimes the greatest adventures aren’t found far away—but right outside your own door.
The Backyard Mystery invites young readers into a world where imagination is sparked, character is shaped, and family bonds are strengthened. It is a story filled with gentle suspense, meaningful lessons, and moments that will resonate long after the final page is turned.
Perfect for early readers and families alike, this installment in the A Dog and Her Boys series continues to celebrate:
The power of curiosity and discovery
The importance of teamwork and trust
The comfort of loyal companionship
And the everyday adventures that shape who we become
Step into the backyard…
You never know what you might find.
I am a husband, father, dad, papaw, and pastor, and live in Vista, California
Don Sanderson is a pastor, grandfather, and storyteller whose greatest inspiration comes from family, faith, and real-life moments that shape the heart. He and his wife, Shari, have been married for over 40 years and have served in ministry together from the very beginning. They have two children and three grandsons—Jack, Otie, and Coen—whose lives and adventures inspired the A Dog and Her Boys series. Don holds a Master of Arts in Practical Theology and a Master of Professional Studies from the University of Chester (England), and is currently pursuing doctoral research through the Centre for Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies at Bangor University (Wales). With more than 30 years of pastoral leadership, Don and Shari have helped lead church revitalizations and a successful church merger and now serve as pastors of Vista Assembly of God in Southern California, where they are passionate about investing in families and the next generation. His debut children’s series, A Dog and Her Boys, is based on a true story. Mabel—their family’s rescue dog—and the boys are real. Each book blends adventure, warmth, and meaningful life lessons, helping children ages 6–11 grow in courage, wisdom, and compassion. When he’s not writing or pastoring, Don enjoys time with his family, encouraging young leaders, and watching stories unfold—both on the page and in real life.
Mabel Finds Home (Book 1)
Mabel Finds Home (Book 1)
A Dog and Her Boys Series
Mabel’s journey begins with uncertainty—but it leads her exactly where she belongs.
In Mabel Finds Home, readers are introduced to a gentle, loyal dog searching for safety, love, and a place to call her own. Along the way, Mabel faces new sights, unfamiliar sounds, and moments that test her courage. Yet even in the unknown, there is a quiet hope guiding her forward.
That hope is fulfilled when she meets three boys—Jack, Otie, and Coen—whose lives are about to be changed just as much as hers. What begins as a simple meeting quickly becomes something deeper: a bond built on trust, kindness, and unconditional love.
Through tender moments and heartfelt discovery, Mabel learns what it means to be part of a family—and the boys discover the joy and responsibility of caring for a faithful friend.
Perfect for young readers and families, Mabel Finds Home is a warm and meaningful story about belonging, compassion, and the life-changing power of love. It reminds us all that sometimes, home isn’t just a place—it’s the people (and pets) who welcome you in.
