Book details
Pie in the Sky: Book Four of the Horses of Oak Valley Ranch
Description
Abby Lovitt doesn't realize how unprepared she is when she takes her beloved horse, True Blue, to a clinic led by the most famous equestrian anyone knows. The biggest surprise, though, is that Sophia, the girl who never makes a mistake, suddenly makes so many that she stops riding. Who will ride her horse? Abby's dad seems to think it will be Abby. Pie in the Sky is the most expensive horse Abby has ever ridden. But he is proud and irritable, and he takes Abby's attention away from the continuing mystery that is True Blue.And then there's high schoolAbby finds new friends, but also new challenges, and a larger world that sometimes seems strange and intimidating. She begins to wonder if there is another way to look at horses, people, and life itself.Accompanied by the beautiful imagery of 1960s Northern California, Abby's charming mix of innocence and wisdom guide us through Pulitzer Prize winner Jane Smiley's latest middle-grade horse novel.
Age
10-13
Text complexity
proficient
Length
272 pages
Book in series
#4
Why to read
- Engaging Storytelling: Jane Smiley, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, is known for her compelling narrative style. 'Pie in the Sky: Book Four of the Horses of Oak Valley Ranch' continues this tradition, offering readers an engaging and immersive story that captures the complexities of life on a horse ranch.
- Character Development: The book provides a deep dive into the lives and growth of its characters, both human and equine. Readers who have followed the series will enjoy the continued development of familiar characters, while new readers will find themselves quickly attached to the richly drawn personalities.
- Themes of Perseverance and Growth: The novel explores themes that are relevant to readers of all ages, such as overcoming challenges, the importance of hard work, and the value of following one's passion. These themes are woven into the story in a way that is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
- Equestrian Insight: For those with an interest in horses and equestrian life, 'Pie in the Sky' offers an authentic portrayal of the joys and hardships of ranch life and horse training. Jane Smiley's expertise and experience in the equestrian world lend credibility and depth to the equine aspects of the story.