A way with horses. Peter McPhee. Toronto: James Lorimer & Company Ltd., 1996. 124 pp., paper, $8.95. ISBN 1-55027-516-5. Grades 4 - 7 / Ages 9 - 12. Review by Luella Sumner. *** /4

excerpt:

Anne continued where Sam had left off, showing her the proper way to sit and how to hold the reins to control her horse. The smaller, English-style saddle had taken some getting used to at first, but Caroline felt confident in it now. Both she and Wallace were still having problems with the new bridle and the English style of using the reins. Wallace was used to the reins pressed lightly against his neck, depending on which direction she wanted him to go. Now Caroline had to keep the reins tight in each hand and pull back on the left or right to direct him. Her wrists and arms were tired from holding them in such an awkward position. Wallace was smart and Caroline had never needed many riding aids to control him.
      Caroline felt tired, sore and unsure of herself. She had thought she knew a lot about the fine points of riding, but there was so much more to know if she ever wanted to compete.

      Caroline is a talented young rodeo rider who has won many prizes with her horse Wallace. She catches the eye of the wealthy owner of a prestigious riding stable, and is offered the chance to be trained in show jumping. Suddenly she is introduced to a whole new world: sleek thoroughbreds, expensive trainers, and sophisticated riding students. Caroline is awed, yet some things about the riding school bother her. The owner seems to care more about medals than the horses or how they are treated. As the Jump Alberta competition approaches, Caroline uncovers something the school would like to hide. Should she tell, and lose her place on the jumping team? Or be true to her instincts and try to put things right to protect the horses she loves?

      The subject matter of this story will be of interest mostly to girls, and girls who love horses at that. There is a wealth of background information on show jumping with a little romance and intrigue thrown in.

Recommended.

Luella Sumner is Head Librarian of Red Rock Public Library in Red Rock Ontario.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © 1996 the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by
The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364