Books like Horse Mad Heroes by Kathy Helidoniotis

When Ash Miller’s family welcomes a new baby brother, she finds herself relegated to the margins of the household and in desperate need of a distraction. The Shady Trails Riding Ranch offers her the perfect escape—a place where her love of horses can flourish. Assigned her first real job there, Ash quickly becomes immersed in the world of equestrian adventures. However, the growth of Shady Trails coincides with a decline in membership at the neighboring Shady Creek Riding Club, run by her father. Becky, Ash’s childhood friend, warns her that the club’s future—and their friendship—hangs in the balance. Faced with a choice between the two riding communities, Ash feels betrayed and isolated. When Becky arrives with shocking news—her sister Rachael has sold the cherished Appaloosa mare Cassata to buy an old car—Ash and Becky realize they must set aside their differences. Together, they form a bold plan to retrieve Cassata and bring her back, no matter the obstacles. Set against the backdrop of a small ranch community, this story explores friendship, loyalty, and the enduring bond between a girl and her horse.

First publish date: 2009