Children's Literature @ NYPL

Booktalking "Blue Ribbon Summer" by Catherine Hapka

blue ribbon

Brooke is in love with her Chincoteague pony, Foxy. She schools the pony herself, but it is a slow, gradual process. Then, her stepfather unexpectedly announces that he has paid for the girl and her pony to attend Camp Pocomoke for two weeks. Brooke is nervous about fitting in, but Hannah, Livi, and Paige are very friendly, and they make her feel welcome.

Luckily, Brooke's instructor, Robin, allows her to use the office computer to check her email. This way, Brooke can keep in touch with her Pony Post pals: Haley, Maddie, and Nina. The girls live in different parts of the United States, but their love of their Chincoteague ponies bind them together. They created a web site on which they could share beautiful pictures from their fun trail rides and riding and training tips with each other. Brooke is happy to talk with friends that she is established with. She knows that she can count on them for help with any pony dilemmas.

There is a big equine dilemma at Camp Pocomoke this year. Brooke overhears Robin and her boyfriend, Preston, discussing the possibility of selling the farm. The girls brainstorm ideas to get Robin to reconsider. Will Camp Pocomoke even exist for the girls and horses next year?

Blue Ribbon Summer by Catherine Hapka, 2014