Book Review: Appaloosa Summer by Tudor Robins

I went through a horse phase when I was six or seven. Of course, as much as I begged my parents, they didn’t want to drive the distance, pay the money, or endure the annoyance of fulfilling my short-lived dreams. Appaloosa Summer allowed me to vicariously experience what I never had. It also rekindled my fascination with horses. I wonder if my folks will chip in for riding lessons now…. just kidding.

When Meg Traherne’s horse, Major, suddenly dies, all Meg’s thoughts of sweet sixteen turn into sweet sadness. (Okay, I’m exaggerating). Unable to deal, Meg moves to spend the summer on an island in the St. Lawrence River. Enter Jared Strickman, a boy still struggling to cope with his dad’s death. Not only does Jared offer friendship, but he also offers a beautiful appaloosa. Unbeknownst to the two of them, Meg and Jared’s lives are about to change forever.

Meg and Jared are really awesome characters. Meg is strong without being mean or too sarcastic. She’s funny, insightful, and considerate. Honestly, I want Meg for a best friend. I absolutely loved reading about her; she developed greatly and realistically. That in itself is impressive. As for Jared, he’s the cutest, sweetest boy I’ve read about in a while. You can tell that he’s a genuinely kind person. Not only does he treat Meg and other humans well, but he also treats animals well. Respectful and wise, that’s a rare combination!

I want to make it clear that although this book can be described as cute and sweet, it is also incredibly deep. Not only does Tudor Robins address the idea of loss, but she also sends messages about important life lessons. Through tragedy, romance, and animals, Tudor Robins pens a compelling story with a clear purpose. Yes, Appaloosa Summer is a relatively light read. However, that does not mean it should be overlooked.

As for the plot, don’t expect any big twists. Appaloosa Summer focuses on Meg and Jared as they learn to deal with mental challenges, rather than relying on the element of surprise. Even if this book doesn’t seem like your cup of tea, definitely check it out. The author writes brilliantly, and it’s a book about horses. HORSES. Come on, horses are awesome!

Warning: since this book is self-published, there are a few grammar errors here and there. Nothing too extreme, but the errors are noticeable.

However, don’t let the fact that Appaloosa Summer is self-published deter you from reading it. After all, as you can probably guess by now, HORSES.

Rating: 7 out of 10

Publisher: Self-published (June 15, 2014)

Source: Netgalley

Length: 246 pages (Paperback)

ISBN #: 9780993683