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Catherine Ryan Hyde
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Seven Perfect Things: A Novel Kindle Edition

by Catherine Ryan Hyde (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.5 out of 5 stars 37,395 ratings

A heart-stirring novel about the joy that comes from finding love in unexpected places by the New York Times and #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author.

Thirteen-year-old Abby Hubble lives in an unhappy home in the Sierra Nevada foothills where her father makes life miserable for her and her mother, Mary. One day Abby witnesses a man dump a litter of puppies into the nearby river. Diving in to rescue all seven, she knows she won’t be able to bring them home. Afraid for their fate at the pound, she takes them to an abandoned cabin, where all she can offer is a promise that she’ll be back the next day.

To grieving widower Elliot Colvin, life has lost meaning. Looking for solace, he retreats to the hunting cabin he last visited years ago, before his wife’s illness. What he discovers is not at all what he expected: seven puppies and one determined girl with an indomitable heart.

As Abby and Elliot’s friendship deepens, Abby imagines how much better her life—and the puppies’ lives—would be if her mother were married to Elliot instead of her father. But when Abby’s father moves the family hundreds of miles away, Abby and her mother must decide how long they’re willing to defer happiness.

Seven Perfect Things is a story about joy, where to find it, how to know it when you see it, and the courage it takes to hang on to it once you have it.

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  1. Print length
    319 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Lake Union Publishing
  4. Publication date
    May 4, 2021
  5. File size
    5.6 MB
  6. Page Flip
    Enabled
  7. Word Wise
    Enabled
  8. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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Popular Highlights in this book
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  1. That’s the thing about life, Elliot thought. Whatever just happened, good or bad, it always moves on.
    Highlighted by 546 Kindle readers
  2. “I mean . . . you just make the best of happy while you’ve got it, right?”
    Highlighted by 429 Kindle readers
  3. “It’s impossible to not be happy with seven puppies climbing all over you. It literally can’t be done.”
    Highlighted by 350 Kindle readers
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Editorial Reviews

Review

“Multilayered and heartwarming.” —Booklist

“Hyde clearly demonstrates her uncanny ability to show human nature at both its best and worst, in ordinary people who sometimes do extraordinary things.” —Bookreporter

About the Author

Catherine Ryan Hyde is the New York Times and #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author of forty books (and counting). An avid traveler, equestrian, and amateur photographer, she shares her astrophotography with readers on her website.

Her novel Pay It Forward was adapted into a major motion picture, chosen by the American Library Association (ALA) for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than twenty-three languages in over thirty countries. Both Becoming Chloe and Jumpstart the World were included on the ALA’s Rainbow list, and Jumpstart the World was a finalist for two Lambda Literary Awards. Where We Belong won two Rainbow Awards in 2013, and The Language of Hoofbeats won a Rainbow Award in 2015.

More than fifty of her short stories have been published in the Antioch Review, Michigan Quarterly Review, Virginia Quarterly Review, Ploughshares, Glimmer Train, and many other journals; in the anthologies Santa Barbara Stories and California Shorts; and in the bestselling anthology Dog Is My Copilot. Her stories have been honored by the Raymond Carver Short Story Contest and the Tobias Wolff Award and have been nominated for Best American Short Stories, the O. Henry Award, and the Pushcart Prize. Three have been cited in the annual Best American Short Stories anthology.

She is founder and former president (2000–2009) of the Pay It Forward Foundation and still serves on its board of directors. As a professional public speaker, she has addressed the National Conference on Education, twice spoken at Cornell University, met with AmeriCorps members at the White House, and shared a dais with Bill Clinton.

For more information, please visit the author at www.catherineryanhyde.com.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08B7YXJH7
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lake Union Publishing (May 4, 2021)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 4, 2021
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 5.6 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 319 pages
  • Page numbers source ISBN ‏ : ‎ 1542021545
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.5 out of 5 stars 37,395 ratings

About the author

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Catherine Ryan Hyde

Catherine Ryan Hyde

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Catherine Ryan Hyde is the author of more than 40 published and forthcoming books.

An avid hiker, traveler, equestrian, and amateur photographer and astrophotographer, she has a published book of photos, 365 DAYS OF GRATITUDE: PHOTOS FROM A BEAUTIFUL WORLD.

She is co-author, with fellow author and publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of HOW TO BE A WRITER IN THE E-AGE: A SELF-HELP GUIDE.

Her novel PAY IT FORWARD was adapted into a major motion picture, chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than 23 languages for distribution in over 30 countries. The paperback was released in October 2000 by Pocket Books and quickly became a national bestseller. Simon & Schuster released PAY IT FORWARD: YOUNG READERS' EDITION in August of '14. It is suitable for kids as young as eight. A special Fifteenth Anniversary Edition of the original PAY IT FORWARD was released in December of '14

LOVE IN THE PRESENT TENSE enjoyed bestseller status in the UK, where it broke the top ten, spent five weeks on the bestseller lists, was reviewed on a major TV book club, and shortlisted for a Best Read of the Year award at the British Book Awards. Both BECOMING CHLOE and JUMPSTART THE WORLD were included on the ALA's Rainbow List, and JUMPSTART THE WORLD was a finalist for two Lambda Literary Awards. WHERE WE BELONG won two Rainbow Awards in 2013 and THE LANGUAGE OF HOOFBEATS won a Rainbow Award in 2015.

New Kindle editions of her backlist titles FUNERALS FOR HORSES, EARTHQUAKE WEATHER AND OTHER STORIES, ELECTRIC GOD, and WALTER'S PURPLE HEART are now available. Also available is THE LONG, STEEP PATH: EVERYDAY INSPIRATION FROM THE AUTHOR OF PAY IT FORWARD, her first book-length creative nonfiction.

More than 50 of her short stories have been published in The Antioch Review, Michigan Quarterly Review, The Virginia Quarterly Review, Ploughshares, Glimmer Train and many other journals, and in the anthologies Santa Barbara Stories and California Shorts and the bestselling anthology Dog is my Co-Pilot. Her stories have been honored in the Raymond Carver Short Story Contest and the Tobias Wolff Award and nominated for Best American Short Stories, the O'Henry Award, and the Pushcart Prize. Three have been cited in Best American Short Stories.

She is founder and former president (2000-2009) of the Pay It Forward Foundation, and served on its board of directors for over 20 years. As a professional public speaker she has addressed the National Conference on Education, twice spoken at Cornell University, met with Americorps members at the White House and shared a dais with Bill Clinton.

For more information and book club questions for most backlist titles, please visit the author at catherineryanhyde.com (Note: The newer titles have book club questions included at the back of the book.)

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
37,395 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find this novel engaging and easy to read, with a compelling plotline that pulls readers in. The book features well-developed characters, with one review noting its three-dimensional portrayal, and customers appreciate its heartwarming narrative that spans from sadness to complete joy. Customers particularly enjoy the puppy themes, with one review highlighting how they add life to the story, while others praise the relationship between mother and daughter as a source of companionship. Customers describe the book as a feel-good story that makes them feel personally connected, with one review noting its amazing portrayal of grief and loss.

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861 customers mention "Story quality"821 positive40 negative

Customers find the story engaging and beautiful, with one noting how it brings warmth to the narrative, though some describe it as a heartbreaker.

"...abuse, emotional neglect and domestic conflict the storyline moves the reader through loss, problem solving by a teenager, and the power of..." Read more

"I just love all of Catherine’s books. Everyone deserves a happy ending...." Read more

"I loved this story. Heart warming,suspense, funny. I loved the puppies. They were so cute. I wish there was a sequel and Mary and Elliott get married." Read more

"This is a perfect book to read , need a good smile, do read the awesome story. Love and understanding comes from the heart...." Read more

398 customers mention "Heartwarming story"398 positive0 negative

Customers find this book heartwarming, describing it as uplifting and full of emotions, with one customer noting how it teaches about the love of the human spirit.

"I loved this story. Heart warming,suspense, funny. I loved the puppies. They were so cute. I wish there was a sequel and Mary and Elliott get married." Read more

"...Love and understanding comes from the heart. That is why I recommend this story. Hope you enjoy this, as much as I have. Blessings!!" Read more

"...between her and her mother in a difficult family situation was heart warming!" Read more

"I loved the quick read, full of suspense, hope, escape from abuse. I am a dog lover, so I loved the rescue of 7 dogs. Fun read!" Read more

246 customers mention "Readability"224 positive22 negative

Customers find the book well written and easy to read, describing it as an engaging and quick read with a comfortable writing style.

"...A great and quick read." Read more

"This is a great book of you are 13. It is written on a ninth grade reading level and has a simple plot. I would not recommend it for adults...." Read more

"...What could be better. She did a wonderful job of writing this book that made me feel like I was right there in the fresh mountain air being loved by..." Read more

"I loved the quick read, full of suspense, hope, escape from abuse. I am a dog lover, so I loved the rescue of 7 dogs. Fun read!" Read more

201 customers mention "Character development"194 positive7 negative

Customers love the characters in the book, particularly appreciating their resilience and three-dimensional nature, with one customer noting how well the author expresses their thoughts and feelings.

"...Everyone deserves a happy ending. These books are filled with ups and downs and always have a way of coming together at the end...." Read more

"I enjoyed this story quite a bit, the characters are charming & entertaining. My only complaint is that it turns just slightly trite...." Read more

"Great character development and writing. There were enough twists and suspenseful moments to keep a predictable plot intriguing!..." Read more

"Seven Perfect Things is such a great read. I was a big fan of Elliot, Abby and Viv but not so much of a fan of Stans or Marys...." Read more

152 customers mention "Love for puppies"152 positive0 negative

Customers love the puppies in the book, particularly Abby's indescribable love for them and their adventures throughout the story, making it a great read for animal lovers.

"...I enjoyed this coming of age type story as three grieving people are brought together by a group of puppies and friends who want only what is best..." Read more

"I just love all of Catherine’s books. Everyone deserves a happy ending...." Read more

"I loved this story. Heart warming,suspense, funny. I loved the puppies. They were so cute. I wish there was a sequel and Mary and Elliott get married." Read more

"...They always pull at the heartstrings and always have animals. What could be better...." Read more

94 customers mention "Pacing"83 positive11 negative

Customers appreciate the pacing of the book, particularly the relationship between mother and daughter and the insight into human needs for companionship.

"...conflict the storyline moves the reader through loss, problem solving by a teenager, and the power of friendship to change the way one sees life...." Read more

"Refreshing story about a wonderful respectful teenager. And the love between her and her mother in a difficult family situation was heart warming!" Read more

"...Things is an amazing story of tragedy, emotional abuse, trust, friendship, joy, courage, not to mention Seven Puppies... Whose lives were just Cast..." Read more

"...This is a wonderful book about a teenager, who people think doesn’t have much common sense but proves many people wrong!" Read more

85 customers mention "Feel good book"85 positive0 negative

Customers describe this book as a feel-good novel that makes them feel warm and fuzzy, filled with tenderness.

"...If you want something different and a feel good reading give this one a try." Read more

"...Wonderful feeling when finished ,but really hated to see it end!" Read more

"...Highly recommend for a soft, heartwarming story that’s a quick and easy read!" Read more

"...written so that young and old alike can enjoy them and always leave you feeling good. Thank you, Catherine, for using the gift that God gave you!" Read more

79 customers mention "Emotion level"72 positive7 negative

Customers appreciate the emotional depth of the book, describing it as a touching story of loss that evokes sadness and grief, with one customer noting its understated portrayal of deep human pains.

"I loved this story. Heart warming,suspense, funny. I loved the puppies. They were so cute. I wish there was a sequel and Mary and Elliott get married." Read more

"I really couldn’t put this book down. It was very emotional at times and joyful at other times. A real human nature story for all type of readers...." Read more

"...Seven Perfect Things is an amazing story of tragedy, emotional abuse, trust, friendship, joy, courage, not to mention Seven Puppies... Whose lives..." Read more

"...It touches on marital abuse, loss and grief along with the determination of thirteen year old Abby to save helpless puppies...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Kodiwodi
    5.0 out of 5 stars Puppies for everyone!
    Reviewed in the United States on March 25, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I’m a dog person and even I would have trouble caring for 7 puppies but I understand Abby’s feelings after also rescuing pups intended to drown in a river. I enjoyed this coming of age type story as three grieving people are brought together by a group of puppies and friends who want only what is best for them all. Touching on the themes of animal abuse, emotional neglect and domestic conflict the storyline moves the reader through loss, problem solving by a teenager, and the power of friendship to change the way one sees life. A great and quick read.
    Helpful
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  • Amber Gerrish
    4.0 out of 5 stars Another win!
    Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I just love all of Catherine’s books. Everyone deserves a happy ending. These books are filled with ups and downs and always have a way of coming together at the end. Big dog person, so I’d love to rescues 7 little puppies!
    Helpful
     Report
  • Cindi
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful story!
    Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I loved this story. Heart warming,suspense, funny. I loved the puppies. They were so cute. I wish there was a sequel and Mary and Elliott get married.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • BLESSINGS
    5.0 out of 5 stars Seven Perfect Things: A Novel.
    Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    This is a perfect book to read , need a good smile, do read the awesome story. Love and understanding comes from the heart. That is why I recommend this story. Hope you enjoy this, as much as I have. Blessings!!
    Helpful
     Report
  • Julia McEntire
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great characters
    Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Refreshing story about a wonderful respectful teenager. And the love between her and her mother in a difficult family situation was heart warming!
    Helpful
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  • Sabrina
    4.0 out of 5 stars Definitely a Feel Good story
    Reviewed in the United States on January 15, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I enjoyed this story quite a bit, the characters are charming & entertaining. My only complaint is that it turns just slightly trite. But I wanted something light & entertaining, this guy the bill.
    Helpful
     Report
  • AlanA
    3.0 out of 5 stars Written for teenagers, not adults
    Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This is a great book of you are 13. It is written on a ninth grade reading level and has a simple plot. I would not recommend it for adults. The plot is entirely predictable, the characters are cookie-cutter types, and the writing style is childish. It should be listed under young adult fiction.
    3 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Grateful Reader
    5.0 out of 5 stars Almost bought a dog!
    Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Great story of strength and determination! Whether you are 13 or 40, when you're surrounded by "puppy love" you can make your own life better! Morale of the story...good things come to those who care for others...even fur babies! Great read!!
    Helpful
     Report

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Just absolutely loved this book!
    Reviewed in Canada on September 3, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I just absolutely loved this book. I am a big fan of this author but this one had to be one of my favourite book by her. Heartwarming story.
    Report
  • Nadia Bocconi
    3.0 out of 5 stars A nice modern fairy story
    Reviewed in Italy on June 16, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    I like happy ending and this was a very happy one. I would like that things could turn out so positevely in trouble times for everyone. I reccomend this book to the people who needs to feel better and hope for the better. Dreaming does not cost anything and may help go trough tough times
    Report
  • Kindle CustomerAmisha
    5.0 out of 5 stars A very sweet book .
    Reviewed in India on July 1, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    A sweet book,.a light read, which you don't want to put down. Definitely recommend it to those who want a feel good book.
    Report
  • music fan
    5.0 out of 5 stars Belle histoire, parfaitement bien décrite.
    Reviewed in France on March 11, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Très bien écrit. Récit dans lequel on se laisse facilement happer et qu'il est dur de quitter :-))
    Report
  • Libby
    5.0 out of 5 stars a really good read
    Reviewed in Australia on March 18, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    Being a dog lover, it was such a lovely story. Sad and happy fast moving read. Shows there are good in people too.
    Report

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