About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to recognize the invisible weights adults carry, such as financial stress or family secrets, while they are still deeply anchored in their own passions. Set during the Great Depression, the story follows Maggie Armistead, a girl whose world revolves around her horse, Stardust. To save her family's estate and enter a horse show, she enters an essay contest, but she soon discovers that the mysteries surrounding her eccentric family are more pressing than any trophy. It is a sophisticated story of resilience and responsibility that is perfect for readers aged 9 to 12 who are transitioning from simple animal stories to nuanced historical fiction. It beautifully balances the thrill of equestrian competition with the sobering realities of growing up during hard times, teaching empathy for those who struggle quietly.
