Hazel's Solo Ride: A story about courage and independence (The Hazel Adventures)

Hazel's Solo Ride is a gentle and encouraging children's picture book about bravery, independence, and learning to face something new one small step at a time.

It is a bright, sunny morning at Hazel's Garage when Hazel notices a beautiful hilltop shining far beyond the trees. She dreams of riding there with her friends, but Nathan is busy with a repair, Mackenzie is sorting supplies, and Charlotte already has plans for the day. For the first time, Hazel must decide whether she is brave enough to take a ride farther than she has ever gone before-all by herself.

At first, the quiet road feels unfamiliar. When Hazel rounds the bend and can no longer see the garage behind her, she begins to wonder if she should turn back. But along the way, she meets Moss, the wise roadkeeper, who gives her simple advice: she does not have to think about the whole ride at once. She only has to choose the next small part of the road.

With that lesson in her heart, Hazel keeps going. She follows the woodland trail, passes through the shade of tall trees, reaches the bottom of a grassy hill, and slowly climbs toward the sunny overlook. Each small part of the road helps her discover a little more confidence.

When Hazel finally reaches the hilltop, she sees Sunshine Meadow, the winding country road, and Hazel's Garage far below. She realizes that even though she felt nervous, she kept going-and that is what bravery can look like.

Perfect for young readers who feel nervous about trying something new, Hazel's Solo Ride offers a warm, comforting reminder that big challenges become easier when we take them one small step-or one small roll-at a time.

Jerry Melton is a Texas author and motorcycle enthusiast who created The Hazel Adventures to share warm, encouraging stories with young readers. Through Hazel and her friends, he explores lessons about kindness, courage, patience, friendship, and helping others. Jerry hopes each adventure gives children a story they enjoy and a message they can carry with them long after the final page.