A Blue for Beware

Beware the Mare #2

by Jessie Haas

Today’s the big day. Lily and her horse, Beware, are going to compete in the junior horse show. Lily’s best friend, Mandy, is also in the competition, riding her horse, Shane. When Lily and her mother and grandfather arrive, Mandy looks so grown up, like a rider in a magazine. And with his shining copper coat, Shane looks just like a show horse. Worried that Beware looks shaggy next to Shane, Lily brushes her until she’s sleek and polished.

Then it’s time for Lily to get ready. She puts on her breeches and boots and tries to remember everything her grandfather taught her about riding. Will Lily and Beware walk away with the blue? And will Lily and Mandy still be best friends when it’s over?

Genres: Childrens, Horses

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

Jessie Haas has written over 35 books for children and adults, many about horses--a lifelong passion. She currently owns a Morgan mare, Robin, who is being clicker-trained to be a trail and pasture-dressage horse. She lives in a small, off-grid house in the woods with husband Michael J. Daley, two cats and a dog. When not writing or riding or reading she likes to knit, cook, and write, or ride, or read.

Reviews

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this is the second book in the series but I actually read it as the third book - oops! But it actually didn't matter, story wise.

In this story Lily does all the exciting competing at a horse show. There are many events and different challenges for both Lily and her friend Mandy. Some of these events I have never heard of - but then I have never attended a horse show either so I guess it is no surprise. But the nervousness Lily feels comes through, especially once she realizes it is not so easy to win a ribbon, especially the highly desired blue ones!

I think where this story truly shines is that it tells you that different horses are skilled at certain things. And that is where that particular horse is going to excell. You can't expect a dressage horse to win blue ribbons at jumping or at racing. And you just need to figure out what your horse is good at.

A fun read!

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

For the horse lover who also likes to learn about horse shows.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the story of winning and losing and the fun of participating.