Rescue - Hardcover

Haas, Jessie

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1629798800 ISBN 13: 9781629798806

Publisher: Astra Young Readers, 2018

Synopsis

In this coming-of-age story perfect for horse fans, twelve-year-old animal lover Joni clashes with her new neighbor and animal rights activist Chess. Their bumpy friendship reaches a crisis when Chess stages an impulsive animal rescue, and Joni must act fast to save the animals' lives.

Shy Joni loves her family's Vermont sheep farm and her strong-willed horse, Archie. When ebullient Chess moves nearby, Joni is drawn to her big personality. However, Chess's opinions on animal rights, global warming, and responsible farming soon have Joni both questioning and defending her family's farm. But when Chess steals miniature horses from their neighbor to "rescue" them, Joni is challenged to find the courage to stand up to Chess. In this complex tale of bridging differences and finding your own voice, two friends nearly break their friendship before they can begin to rebuild it.

About this title

About the Author

Jessie Haas has written more than thirty-five books, most of them about horses. Her novels include The Hungry Place, a Texas Bluebonnet Master List title; Sharper, which won a Golden Kite Honor Award; and Unbroken, which was a Publishers Weekly Best Book, a School Library Journal Best Book, and a CCBC Choice, among other honors. She lives in Vermont with her husband, a horse, two cats, a dog, and a hen. Visit jessiehaas.com.

Reviews

Gr 4–6—Twelve-year-old Joni lives on a sheep farm with her family and her spirited horse, Archie. Joni's family lives a simple life, shearing sheep, making cheese, and taking care of their farm. Joni often feels left out, even at horse camp. When Chess moves in next door, it seems like Joni will have a built-in friend. Chess, however, is different from anyone Joni has ever known: Chess is a vegan and an animal rights activist. When she questions Joni about eating cheese, whether the sheep are happy, or if Archie wants to be ridden, Joni must think about things in an entirely new way. When Chess releases a neighbor's miniature horses, one of the horses becomes injured. Joni has to decide how to stand up to her new friend and still maintain the friendship. Haas is an expert on all things horse and farm, bringing authenticity and informative details to her novels. Joni is a relatable character, and the themes around animal rights and sustainable farming are timely. VERDICT A great read for kids who like horses and/or are environmentally conscious. Recommended to fans of Pam Muñoz Ryan's Riding Freedom.—Terry Ann Lawler, Burton Barr Library, Phoenix

Edition details

• Publisher: Astra Young Readers
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1629798800
• ISBN 13: 9781629798806
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 200