This is a realistic fiction early chapter book for intermediate grades.
Media: N/A
This book is about a young girl and her family. They own a training stable but have been bought out by new developers, so they must sell their horses and move somewhere else. The book follows Josie, her mother, and their friends as they try to sell their last horse, Hope, to a good home. They have all sorts of trouble because Hope is an older, unattractive horse, yet she has a lot of charm and great manners. They go through the ringer trying to deal with potential buyers who either do not like Hope's looks or do not seem to be a proper fit. In the end, Hope gets adopted by a woman who runs a camp for handicapped children. This seems to be the best fit for Hope, as she is greatly loved by the children.
This book characterizes Josie, the little girl, as a fiesty, stubborn young girl. One can imagine her facial expressions and reactions to various scenarios as she deals with rude characters in defense of Hope. The author does a good job of painting a picture in the reader's mind as to what Josie's personality is like. This book is a good example of realistic fiction because the trials that the characters endure and the situation they are in are realistic.
This book could be used for independent reading, but is geared toward female audiences.
This book could be used for small group reading/literature circles, appealing to those students interested in horses. ( )

Josie Grace grew up with Faith, Hope, and Charity, the horses at her family’s riding school. Now that her family is forces to close the stables, she must find the horses new homes. If only she can find the perfect owners
Now that Faith is gone Hope is next to go. Hope is the most reliable horse at the Graces riding stable. Her calm nature and gentle manner make her close to Josie’s heart. But now it’s time to find a new owner for Hope, and Josie feels more discouraged than
ever. No one can seem to look past Hope’s pain looks and see how she is the most perfect horse. Jose won’t give up hope without finding her a loving home. ( )