Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd.
Pages: 160 pgs
Source: Received a copy for review
Genre: Grades 2 - 5, Animals,
Historical Fiction
From Goodreads:
It's the early
half of the 19th century in coastal Nova Scotia, and almost-ten-year-old Ellie
is adjusting to the recent death of her mother. But just when she finally
begins to feel happy again, Ellie and her father move to remote Sable Island, a
tiny, windblown crescent of grass and sand in the Atlantic. While her father
works, Ellie explores the island, feeling alone and furious with her pa for
making them leave their beloved home. Even meeting a spirited island girl named
Sarah does little to dispel her anger and grief. Then one afternoon, Ellie
encounters a wild stallion grazing on the dunes, and slowly forges a secret
connection with the beautiful horse she names Orchid. But Ellie soon learns
that Orchid and his family are threatened, and it may be up to her to save
them. Based on historical fact, this early chapter book is a touching
exploration of loss and loneliness and the redemptive power of love and
friendship
My Thoughts:
This is
definitely a book for anyone who loves horses, or historical fiction. There are so many themes here; moving
on when things get tough, moving past loss and grief, facing hardships, and
most importantly, friendship.
Ellie was a very believable character. You could see
and understand her feelings. I don’t
think I would have wanted to leave the only home I’d ever known, especially if
my mother had been buried there. I
enjoyed learning about Sable Island.
I had never heard of it and so learning some history is always a good
thing for me. I look forward to
passing this on to students who will really enjoy this book.
Susan Hughes is an award winning author whose books include Case Closed?, No Girls Allowed, Earth to Audrey and Virginia. She has loved horses since she was a child and has long dreamed of setting a story on Sable Island. Susan lives in Toronto, Ontario.
Website: http://www.susanhughes.ca/
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