Casey Little Yo-Yo Queen

Deborah Dowson is a Canadian children’s librarian living in Harvard,
Massachusetts.

Casey Little has been working as a pet sitter in her neighbourhood to
earn enough money to buy her beloved horse Lightening. So far she has
raised $300, but when she learns that he must be sold immediately for
$1,500, she is heartbroken at the thought that she will lose him. It is
more than a little strange when her elderly new neighbour, Mrs.
Lombardi, decides to host a children’s carnival in her backyard that
includes a yo-yo contest with a prize of $1,500. How could she have
known? Casey is an amazing yo-yo performer, but she suffered a severe
attack of stage fright at the school talent show and hasn’t picked up
her yo-yo since. Desperate to be able to buy Lightening, Casey overcomes
her deepest fear and participates in the contest. The result is
unexpected and delightful.

This is a terrific fantasy that mixes the magic and excitement of
childhood fun with a serious tale of determination and accomplishment.
Casey is torn by her desire to buy the horse she loves and her fear of
failure. A little bit of magic sets in motion a situation that is
impossible for her to resist, but she succeeds using her own wits. The
story is charming, intriguing, and fun to read. Recommended.