Synopses & Reviews
Here is a moving intergenerational story, set in Arizona, about the friendship that develops between twelve-year-old Jan and Mattie, an elderly resident of a nearby assisted-living facility. Jans beloved horse, Dove, needs surgery on one of his legs, but moneys been extremely tight since Dad died, and Mom may not be able to afford the operation. The situation seems hopelessuntil Mattie offers to help with a loan. But what will Matties daughter think of her generous offer to a girl she just met?
Review
"Once again, Adler has written a well-paces story with interesting and sympathetic characters." SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL School Library Journal
Things could hardly get worse for 12-year-old Jan: her father has died, her mother seems unloving, she has no friends, money is tight, and her beloved horse, Dove, is limping. Of course, things do get a bit worseDove needs an operation the family can't afford. But along the way Jan befriends Mattie, a resident at a nearby retirement home, and Lisa, a new girl at school. Even better, she realizes that her mother does love her, after all. Adler has created a number of convincing characters for this novel, which is set on a small ranch near Tuscon, Arizona. The initial bleakness of Jan's situation may put off some readers, but girls who love to read about girls who love horses will find this a satisfying story in the end.
Booklist, ALA
Review
Since the death of her father, things have been difficult for Jan and her mother as they try to hold on to the ranch. At least Jan has her horse to ride, or so she thought, until Dove develops an intermittent lameness problem. When the girl finally convinces her mother to call the vet, the prognosis is grim: Dove needs an operation or his condition will continue to deteriorate, and there's no money to pay for it. The situation seems hopeless until Jan meets Mattie, an elderly resident in an assisted-living facility. A friendship grows between these two lonely people, and Mattie's generous gesture to save Jan's horse also helps the woman's life take a turn for the better. Once again, Adler has written a well-paced story with interesting and mostly sympathetic characters. Mattie, who appears to have been abandoned by her daughter, is particularly believable and sensitively drawn. She is striking in contrast to Jan's grandmother, who shows little compassion for her granddaughter's plight. This heroine has many traits that readers will relate to as she struggles with her insecurities and loneliness. She is determined and kind and her love for her horse will evoke an empathetic response from readers.
About the Author
C. S. Adler is the author of many novels for young readers, including the recent One Unhappy Horse and Winning. She lives on Cape Cod and in Arizona.