Ivy Takes Care

Rosemary Wells's 'Ivy Takes Care' is a heartwarming chapter book set in the mid-century Southwest, following young Ivy as she navigates a summer of unexpected growth. When her best friend departs, Ivy, initially heartbroken, channels her energy into caring for local farm animals and pets. This journey of discovery sees her bonding with a variety of creatures, including a challenging pony, a playful puppy, and a majestic, wary racehorse. The story gently explores themes of loneliness, resilience, empathy, and self-discovery, all while Ivy manages the antics of a troublesome tagalong friend, Billy Joe. It's a beautifully observed novel about finding purpose and confidence, perfect for children aged 7-11.

Brokenhearted when her best friend departs for the summer, Ivy spends her own summer caring for animals in the mid-century Southwest, sharing her season of discovery with a stubborn pony, a mischievous puppy, and a scarred racehorse. Brokenhearted after her best friend leaves for the entire summer, Ivy rallies and finds herself something new and exciting to do. She hires herself out to look after people's farm animals and pets while they're away.