Horse Trouble

Kristin Varner's graphic novel, Horse Trouble, introduces Kate, a twelve-year-old girl whose passion for horseback riding becomes a backdrop for navigating the complexities of early adolescence. Kate deals with a best friend who can't join her due to allergies, the sting of 'mean girls' at the stable, personal body image struggles, and the literal challenge of repeatedly falling off her horse. This relatable story explores themes of resilience, self-confidence, and friendship, offering a humorous and heartfelt look at the 'unfair punishments' of tween years. It's ideal for children aged 8-12, particularly those who love horses or are experiencing similar social and emotional hurdles.

An American Library Association 2021 Best Graphic Novel for Children Twelve-year-old Kate is laser-focused on her one true passion: horseback riding. But try as she might, she can't hide from life's problems in the stable. There's nothing Kate loves more than being around horses. But her best friend is allergic to them, so Kate has to take riding lessons without her. Kate's forced to navigate some of life's hardships—like the mean girls at the stable who tease her and her body insecurities—all on her own. To make matters worse, Kate is continually falling off her horse. To Kate, her tween years feel like one unfair punishment after another. Can she get over it all...and get back on her horse? Horse Trouble, the debut graphic novel from children's book artist Kristin Varner, is an oh-so-relatable graphic novel with humor and heart.