Shelby Becomes a Horse Girl - Marty Kay Jones

Shelby Simone is a regular city girl who is obsessed with horses. Even though she's never really had a chance to spend time with horses, she's been curious about all things horse since... forever!

When her parents' jobs take her to a new small town in a rural area, Shelby's life changes forever. Not only does she have to get used to a new way of life, but her parents have gifted her riding lessons at one of the best barns around.

Starting something new is scary, so Shelby has her hands full with a brand new activity, new friends, and a new school. While she experiences many challenges, Shelby discovers two very important things: Not only does she love horses just as much as she thought she would, but she's found the best friends possible along the way.

Join the riders of Old Quarry Lake Farms as they spend their first summer together. Bonded by horses, locals Katherine and Rose are joined by Shelby, a newcomer from the city. Together, they'll learn and grow in the sleepy town of Old Quarry Lake.

This book is perfect for:

• Girls ages 9-12
• Young readers who have experienced moving to a new home, making new friends, and feeling awkward in new places
• Readers who love horses and want to learn more about them
• Aspiring horseback riders and those who want to try horseback riding lessons
• Parents who have children who are obsessed with horses
• Teachers looking for materials that deal with sensitive emotional issues
• Families of young readers who are experiencing anxiety over a change

What makes the Old Quarry Lake Farms Tales so special:

• The diverse lineup of characters includes several races, body types, and capabilities
• The characters' authentic voices help readers relate to their struggles and triumphs
• The emotions and experiences the characters share are familiar to many readers
• Challenging situations, including moving, trying new activities, getting along with new groups, body image issues, and bullying are discussed in a safe and comforting- yet highly realistic- manner

In this book, readers will:

• Learn it's okay to be stressed, anxious, scared, or awkward sometimes-it's all just a part of who we are as an individual.
• Meet a group of girls who are silly, kind-hearted, caring, completely imperfect, and crazy about horses!
• Understand how communication and honesty can bring people together in the best of ways.
• Discover horses and horseback riding through the eyes of a young girl trying it for the first time.

For young readers, pre-teens, tweens, and teens, the Old Quarry Lake Farms Tales are not just warm-hearted stories about girls and their horses, but provide information and insight about horses and the world of riding.