Though written very simply for beginning readers, this is a delightful story about a horse and her girl. Haas uses authentic language for riders that even non-riders will understand with Friend's descriptive illustrations. For example, when Bramble the horse is moving too slowly during the lesson, the instructor says: "Bump her with your legs, make her go a little faster." The picture shows Bramble speeding up with a grin, and the rider with a surprised, slightly scared expression on her face. At the end of the first chapter, the riding instructor realizes that Bramble is tired of going around in circles for lessons and puts her up for sale. In chapter two, a girl and a boy come to look at Bramble, but she doesn't like them and doesn't perform well for them. It is only when Maggie sees the "Horse for Free" sign that things start looking up for Bramble. Maggie sees Bramble as a friend and companion, not just a horse. When Bramble has her "little ways" of not doing what she's told, Maggie gently corrects her and says it's partly her fault in not signaling Bramble in the proper way. When Maggie asks to ride Bramble outside the ring, the horse is hooked. In the final chapter, Maggie readies her home for Bramble. When Bramble comes, Maggie shows her everything that might be scary (the swing set in the back yard; the hose), so Bramble is not afraid. I won't give away the ending, but it's perfect. ( )

A story horse lovers will enjoy. ( )

On rare occasions I buy a book I have not read, reviewed, or thoroughly researched. It happens a bit more often now, since I have a little more money to spend and a rapidly increasing list of other duties in addition to collection development *sigh*.

This book came up on my new releases list from BWI Titletales (best vendor ever btw) and knowing we needed more easy readers and liking the cover, I added it to the list. When it showed up and I skimmed it, I took it home for a more intimate discussion.

Bramble has gotten bored going around and around the ring giving riding lessons. Maggie is picking out a horse all of her own. Is Bramble the right horse for her? As the riding instructor, Mrs. Blenkinsop says "Bramble has her little ways." Bramble and Maggie meet, negotiate, and finally settle down to a happy ending in four chapters. The writing is at the higher end of easy readers, about Arnold Lobel level, but still maintains the simple vocabulary and short sentences needed by beginning readers. Within the confines of the easy reader, Jessie Haas produces a story that is funny, touching and has a gentle underlying message - there's a place for everyone.

Alison Friend's pop-eyed characters are a delightful accompaniment. She perfectly fulfils the requirements of an easy reader illustrator, giving clues to the reader and adding dimension to the simple story. The combination of text and art adds even more humor to the story and children will be delighted to read and watch the growing friendship between Bramble and Maggie.

Verdict: I can't wait to put this out on the shelves and watch the kids grab it. It's not so specifically "girl+horse" that boys won't pick it up and both children and parents will enjoy the humorous story. This lucky pick was definitely lucky and I can see it becoming a beloved classic!

ISBN: 0763649554; Published March 2012 by Candlewick; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

"A Junior Library Guild selection"--Jkt. flap.