October 2025 Book Reviews: Peepers’s Remarkable Journey and Tango The Eagle Eyed Stallion 

Books by: Tom Handel
Review by: Dr. Wendy Hooper-Meletes, Ed.D., owner of Litchfield Books

With a passion to volunteer at a nearby wildlife sanctuary that protects and preserves wildlife, Tom Handel found inspiration in the uplifting stories unfolding at the sanctuary, prompting him to channel his creativity into writing following a successful forty-year career in business. Little orphaned Peepers, a mallard duckling bonds with the tortoise and a potbellied pig after her rescue at the edge of the woods. As she shares her new home with Hank the tortoise and Judy the potbellied pig they pass their time playing in the tall grass and splashing in the muddy creek. Once covered in down, Peepers begins to show signs of flight feathers and is faced with having to say good bye to Judy and Hank … but not forever! Peepers journey portrays the joys of friendship, courage and determination. 

With the satisfying cadence of pedals during a morning bike ride, author Tom Handel came across an injured bobcat laying in the road that was later taken to a wildlife rescue sanctuary in Georgetown. After care and rehabilitation animals can be released back in to the wild. Since birth, Tango lives in a world of silence. His heightened sense of sight and body language helps him to fit in even though he is different and often feels like an outsider. Friends, Bella and Dusty know that only Tango despite his challenges guides the herd to safety when fiery flames and black smoke appear in the valley. The Eagle-Eyed Stallion is about courage, resilience, and the strength found in embracing our differences. Adventure awaits! Parents, grandparents and educators stop in to Litchfield Books in Pawleys Island to get a copy of award winning Tom Handel’s children’s books. Tom’s books are more than a story—it’s an experience you’ll share together.