Hummer's life has become almost too difficult to bear: her emotionally disturbed mother won't leave the house and can't stand to throw anything away; her kind but ineffectual father sleeps in the cow shed and rarely enters the stinking, garbage-filled house. Shame and fear keep Hummer from seeking help for her family's problems. Then, in the middle of a thunderstorm, the Arab mare Fox gallops into Hummer's life. Fox's owner, Old Man Riley, comes to claim his property, but changes his mind and lets Hummer keep the mare for a while. Under Riley's guidance, Hummer begins to train Fox for a grueling competitive trail ride. As she works with the mare, Hummer gains a deep inner confidence and enough strength to cope with the results of her mother's mental illness. The accurate details of horse training add conviction to this bittersweet first novel. Ages 10-14.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8-- Sixth grader Hummer and Virgil, her dairy farmer father, cover up for Hummer's mother, Leona, who suffers from serious depression. She is unable to leave the house or clean it, allowing garbage to accumulate in staggering proportions. Fortunately, Hummer's life brightens with the arrival of an Arabian mare, Fox. Her relationship with Fox and her owner, Riley, help Hummer accept her mother's illness and gain some self-confidence. With Riley's coaching, she diligently conditions Fox for a competitive trail ride. She completes the arduous ride and proves that she has gained self-esteem and the recognition of others. Fox functions as more than a catalyst--she's a strong, realistic equine character. Authentic equestrian details will please the horse-story audience, as will Hummer's satisfying character development. The story's conclusion also rings true: Hummer's home life improves, although Leona's recovery remains questionable. An above average coming-of-age and horse story. --Charlene Strickland, formerly at Albuquerque Public Library , NM
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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