Ride On
By Mary Eisenhart,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Tweens, horses, sci-fi form relatable coming-of-age tale.
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What's the Story?
In the wake of a huge falling out with her lifelong best friend, Victoria is hoping to be able to RIDE ON at another barn -- one that's not all about pressure, ribbons, and money. She just wants to ride, hang out with the horses, and not make any friends. She's done with barn friendships and their drama, so she's rude to everyone who tries to be nice to her. Things start to change when a new horse arrives and Victoria is put in charge of his training. They change even more when she discovers an unexpected connection with the other kids. Aside from loving horses, they're all major fans of a space-based TV series canceled long before they were born.
Is It Any Good?
Faith Erin Hicks' lively, relatable graphic novel of horse-loving tweens set at a homey, unpretentious riding stable hits a lot of sweet spots as kids and horses learn, grow, and connect. Good horsemanship, good friends, supportive families, hard work -- and fandom -- rule the day in Ride On, as a young rider burned out on the pressures, demands, and expense of the competitive circuit tries to find a new, drama-free place to work and hang out with the horses. The barn regulars aren't so sure about this, and things get off to a bad start. But as this lively tale of horses, science fiction, fandom, cosplay, Renaissance fairs, annoying but helpful siblings, and creative problem-solving unfolds, they take a turn for the better. Along the way are strong messages about being true to yourself, being a good friend, and building connections that help you survive life's troubles.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the deep, enduring connection between kids and horses in Ride On. Why is that connection part of so many lives and stories? Do you love horses yourself? What are your favorite horse stories?
Do your siblings or friends give you a lot of grief because you're interested in something they don't get at all? Like Sam's sporty brothers who don't understand why he's serious about riding? How do you deal with it?
Have you ever lost a friend because your interests grew apart? How did it feel? What did you do?
Book Details
- Author: Faith Erin Hicks
- Genre: Graphic Novel
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters , Friendship , Great Boy Role Models , Great Girl Role Models , Horses and Farm Animals
- Character Strengths: Courage , Empathy , Gratitude , Perseverance , Self-control , Teamwork
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: First Second
- Publication date: August 16, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 10 - 14
- Number of pages: 224
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: August 19, 2022
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