
A parent might reach for this book when their child is struggling with the loneliness and frustration of a big move. It tells the story of twelve-year-old Leeann, who moves with her single mother to a guest ranch in Arizona. A passionate horse lover, Leeann's dreams of riding are blocked by a crusty old wrangler. This heartfelt story explores themes of resilience, friendship, and empathy as Leeann works to prove herself, forming unexpected bonds with guests, including the mother of a child with a disability. For ages 9-13, it's an excellent choice for a child who needs to see how perseverance and kindness can help one find a sense of belonging, even in an unfamiliar place.
The book features a prominent supporting character with a significant physical disability (cerebral palsy). The approach is direct, secular, and handled with empathy through the protagonist's perspective. It realistically portrays some of the daily challenges and prejudices faced, but its focus is on human connection and seeing the person beyond the disability. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing understanding and friendship.
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Sign in to write a reviewAn ideal reader is a 10 to 12-year-old animal lover (especially horses) who is feeling like an outsider, perhaps due to a move or a new school. This book is for the child who is trying to find their place and needs a model for how hard work, patience, and kindness can overcome social obstacles and difficult personalities.
The book can be read cold. The depiction of Nicky's disability is sensitive and serves as a good entry point for discussion. A parent might want to be prepared to answer questions about cerebral palsy or disabilities in general, but the book itself provides a compassionate framework for that conversation. A parent has just heard their child say, "It's not fair!" or "Nobody here gets me." The child is feeling discouraged by a new environment and is struggling to connect or be seen for who they are. They feel their passion or skill is being overlooked by adults or peers.
A younger reader (9-10) will primarily connect with the horse story: Leeann's deep desire to ride and her conflict with the grumpy wrangler. An older reader (11-13) will appreciate the more nuanced emotional layers: Leeann’s developing empathy for Nicky and Sandra, the dynamics of earning respect, and the quiet strength she builds in finding her own identity.
Among the many middle-grade horse novels, this one stands out by intertwining the protagonist's passion for animals with her journey toward greater empathy. Leeann’s growth is not just about mastering a skill or taming an animal; it is about learning to connect with and advocate for people, particularly a child with a disability, which in turn helps her find her own strength and place.
Twelve-year-old Leeann moves with her mom from Chicago to an Arizona guest ranch where her mom has taken a job. An avid horse lover, Leeann is dismayed to find the ranch's wrangler, Mac, is gruff and unwilling to let her ride or work with the animals. While navigating her new, isolated life, she befriends a guest named Sandra and her son Nicky, who has cerebral palsy. Through her persistent efforts to help in the stables and her growing, empathetic connection with Nicky, Leeann gradually earns Mac's respect and discovers a true sense of community and purpose.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.