Victoria has always loved horses, riding from when she was very young. Her best friend Taylor has always been right beside her at Waverly
Stables, as they steadily became competent riders together and begin entering shows.
But Waverly Stables is expensive and their journey different. Taylor’s parents can afford the riding lessons and even the extra one-on-one lessons with a highly respected trainer. Victoria has had to muck out stables and work hard behind the scenes for the privilege.
When Victoria decides she would like the summer off working at Waverly Stables, Taylor doesn’t understand why Victoria just wants to ride horses without all the added work, pressure and expectation.
Joining a new stable, Victoria is back in her happy place – riding horses. Others at the stables aren’t so happy however. Who is this new girl who keeps to herself? One rider in particular sees Waverly as the opposition, and Victoria’s aloofness doesn’t help.
Even though Victoria’s plan to keep to herself seemed a good one to begin with, she has more in common with the riders around her than just the stable. They all love something she is passionate about and never had anyone to share it with.
I’ve never been horse-mad, but there are millions of young readers who are. Regardless, Ride On captured me from the first page, introducing the main character and her love of horses in 4 quiet, simple, illustrated frames.
There are three other main characters who also love horses and working in a stables – all with their own personalities. Throughout this graphic novel, we get to know them well.
This beautifully coloured graphic novel explores so many challenges that middle-grade / teen readers face:
Friendships, Peer Pressure, Challenging siblings, Privilege, Fandom, Competition Anxiety and figuring out what is important to YOU.
These are all portrayed seamlessly within the story and illustrations, with plenty of humour and horse love throughout.Â
A thoroughly enjoyable story.
Author / Illustrator – Faith Erin Hicks
Age – 10+
Graphic Novel
(2022, Macmillan, Horses, Animals, Stables, Friendships, Peer Pressure, Challenging siblings, Privilege, Fandom, Competition Anxiety, Figuring out what is important to YOU, Teasing, Humour, Family)