Book details
The Georges and the Jewels: Book One of the Horses of Oak Valley Ranch
Description
A Pulitzer Prize winner makes her debut for young readers.Jane Smiley makes her debut for young readers in this stirring novel set on a California horse ranch in the 1960s. Seventh-grader Abby Lovitt has always been more at ease with horses than with people. Her father insists they call all the mares Jewel and all the geldings George and warns Abby not to get attached: the horses are there to be sold. But with all the stress at school (the Big Four have turned against Abby and her friends) and home (her brother Danny is gonefor good, it seemsand now Daddy wont speak his name), Abby seeks refuge with the Georges and the Jewels. But theres one gelding on her familys farm that gives her no end of trouble: the horse who wont meet her gaze, the horse who bucks her right off every chance he gets, the horse her father makes her ride and train, every day. She calls him the Ornery George.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
10-13
Text complexity
proficient
Length
240 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Engaging Storytelling: Jane Smiley, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, is known for her compelling narrative style. 'The Georges and the Jewels' offers readers an engaging story that combines the complexities of family life with the challenges of training horses, making it a captivating read for both young and older audiences.
- Character Development: The novel provides a deep insight into the protagonist's, Abby Lovitt's, life and her growth as she navigates her responsibilities on the family ranch. Readers can relate to her experiences and learn from her journey as she develops a unique bond with the horses and confronts various life lessons.
- Educational Value: For those interested in horses and equestrian culture, this book offers educational content about horse training, care, and the bond between horses and humans. It's an excellent choice for readers who want to learn more about equine behavior and the art of horsemanship.
- Themes of Resilience and Perseverance: 'The Georges and the Jewels' explores themes such as resilience, perseverance, and the importance of hard work. These themes are woven into the story in a way that inspires readers to face their own challenges with determination and courage.