Horseback Hardships

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with performance anxiety or feels like their nerves are preventing them from succeeding in a hobby they love. It is particularly helpful for kids who have experienced a minor setback or a scary moment that has shaken their confidence. The story follows a young rider named Elena who must overcome her fear of a temperamental horse to succeed at a local horse show. Through Elena's journey, the book explores themes of resilience, trust, and the importance of patience when working with animals. It provides a realistic look at how anxiety feels in the body and models healthy ways to push through fear without dismissing the child's feelings. At a reading level perfect for ages 8 to 12, it offers a quick but impactful lesson on how building a relationship is often more important than winning a ribbon.