Wild Girl
Horse tale with more depth and a strong girl lead.
Kids say
Based on 6 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that a few sad moments won’t ruin this book for girls who love horse stories. Livie's mother died when she was 7; a horse falls during a race; a young horse is taken away from its mother when it is sold. Moments of growth become moments of grace; when Livie runs away from school her first day, she knows how to best ask for help, and a scary situation resolves reassuringly without encouraging similar behavior.
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What's the Story?
A young Brazilian girl immigrates to join her father and brother in America after five years apart. She has much to learn about her family and life in a new country, and everyone must adjust to the fact that she is no longer 7 years old. A young filly undergoing similar changes and an old mare who needs love both ease Livie’s transition, so do exceptionally loving and supportive adults.
Is It Any Good?
This is a strong, sweet story about an immigrant family building a new life, but keeping strong ties to their life in Brazil. It features a great main character who is brave and empathetic, unusual details about the world of horse racing and training, and positive role models both young and old. Some sad but realistic events keep the story from being predictable and saccharine.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it might be like to move here from another country.
If you moved away from here, what would you miss most, and what would you take with you?
What was the bravest thing that Livie did?
How would you and your classmates react if a new student had the same accident that Livie did?
Book Details
- Author: Patricia Reilly Giff
- Genre: Family Life
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Wendy Lamb
- Publication date: August 11, 2009
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 8 - 12
- Number of pages: 147
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
Our Editors Recommend
-
Black Beauty
Classic horse novel has be-kind-to-animals message.
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Keeker and the Sneaky Pony
A great choice to keep new readers in the saddle.
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The Black Stallion
Breathtakingly beautiful, magical classic is a must-see.
For kids who love animals and strong girl characters
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