Diamond Spirit

Gr 5–8—After Jesse loses her beloved Appaloosa pony, Diamond, in freak accident, she discovers that her best friend, Shara, lied about how the accident occurred. Soon after, a cousin sends Jesse her older and not very attractive horse, Dodger. On a visit to a nearby stockhorse breeding farm, Jesse sees a foal, Walkabout, that she begins to believe is perhaps a reincarnation of Diamond, and she is determined to buy her. In the meantime, she is encouraged by some friends and the owner of the farm to give Dodger a chance. It turns out that the old horse comes from great stock breeding lines, and as Jesse works with him, she starts to appreciate his abilities. With Dodger's help, her dream of owning Walkabout might become a reality. There are many challenges along the way—from "mean girls" to training for a a cattle drive. This is a satisfying horse story with a spirited heroine who is very believable as she copes with issues of friendship and loss. The Australian setting is authentically captured and adds interest to the story. For those looking for a good horse tale, this is a winner.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA