This installment in the 'Vet Volunteers' series follows David, a young boy passionate about horses, as he grapples with a significant fear: jumping. His challenge is compounded by the return of his father, who has been gone for a year and promises to teach David to jump like a champion. David's internal conflict centers on his deep-seated fear of falling versus his even greater fear of disappointing his father. The story explores themes of bravery, self-confidence, and complex family dynamics, making it a poignant read for children navigating similar emotional pressures or those who simply love animal stories.
David is determined to learn to jump on horseback if it kills him. And sometimes he's afraid it might— like when Comet balks and won't go over the crossbar. Now that David's father is back in town, he's promised to teach David how to jump like a champion. But David can't let him know how scared he is. Because there's one thing that scares David more than falling off a horse, and that's disappointing his father. Can he overcome his fear, or even talk about it?