That Horse Whiskey

A parent might reach for this book when their child is grappling with a major disappointment, like a broken promise from a loved one. Lainey is devastated when her father's financial troubles mean he can't get her the horse he promised for her thirteenth birthday. Feeling overlooked in her family, she channels her hurt and energy into taming a neighbor's notoriously difficult horse, Whiskey. This quiet, character-driven story for ages 10 to 14 explores resilience, the complexity of family love, and finding self-worth through hard work. It's a wonderful choice for an animal-loving child who needs to see that purpose and joy can be found even when life doesn't go according to plan.