Courage to Ride

by Bernadette Kelly (Contributor)

Book by Kelly, Bernadette

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Hilary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Annie Boyd’s dream of owning her own horse has come true -- but the reality of caring and riding for a horse is different from her daydreams. Riding gear and riding clothes are expensive -- and using secondhand items embarrasses Annie -- especially when the clothes and tack are purchased from Jessica, the local bully who is making Annie’s life uncomfortable.

Annie also finds riding and jumping secretly a bit frightening. She develops a greater appreciation for mastering the basics after several falls. A neighbor offers her tips, and Annie gets a job at the riding club as a stable hand to help defray the costs related to riding.

Matter-of-fact and realistic, emotions and experiences of a novice rider ring true. Notes from the author include some sensible horse tips, a short glossary, a discussion guide and writing prompts, and some advice regarding bullying.

[Barbara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Finally, Annie Boyd has a horse of her own, given to her by a neighbor. But Bobby is a elderly horse, and she wonders if he can keep up with the other horses at her riding club. Annie also worries how she can control him or dare to jump over barriers. Added to all these concerns are financial ones concerning how she can afford lessons and pay for his needs as well as her embarrassment at having to use second-hand tack. Although the challenges Annie faces seem to be resolved all too easily, horse-loving readers are sure to enjoy reading this title. I found myself wanting to see a little more struggles. It takes time to ride even passably, and Annie seems to have mastered its rudiments a little too quickly.

[Julie (Let's Read Good Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review to follow