Abby Malone

Deborah Dowson is a Canaadian children’s librarian in North Wales,
Pennsylvania.

Abby Malone has a favorite dream in which she pictures herself on a
beautiful little mare, winning the local Caledon steeplechase
competition and being congratulated by her idol. In reality though,
Abby’s life couldn’t be worse. Her father is imprisoned for a crime
he didn’t commit, her family is out of money, and her mother has taken
to drink. But Abby is not alone; with the caring attention of her
elderly neighbors and her faithful pet coyote, she bravely faces life.
Abby doggedly overcomes all obstacles, not only achieving her dream but
reversing the family fortunes as well.

As in her first novel, Dancer (1996), Shelley Peterson tells a horse
story and skilfully mixes elements of mystery, suspense, romance, and
family drama to create an exciting read. Although there is no doubt that
there will be a happy ending, it is fun to find out how Abby will manage
it. Young-adult readers will relate to Abby’s passion as well as to
her frustration with authority and the injustice that she experiences.

Abby Malone is written in the style of classic children’s stories,
with stereotypical characters in improbable situations and a tendency to
clichéd descriptions. However, this old-fashioned charm is both
endearing and enduring. This well-produced book is a “must have” for
all school and library collections. Highly recommended.