The Saturday Appaloosa

Linda Ludke is a librarian at the London Public Library.

Every Saturday, Crystal visits her grandmother and together they go to
the neighbor’s field to pet the horses. Crystal has a special bond
with the majestic, black-and-white Appaloosa, whom she desperately wants
to ride. Her grandmother strictly forbids her to ride other people’s
horses, “unless they offer.” On one weekly visit, they are concerned
when the Appaloosa is nowhere in sight. When Crystal discovers her
beloved horse tangled in a wire fence, her grandmother goes for help and
instructs Crystal to stay and comfort the frightened animal. The
grateful owner repays Crystal’s bravery by inviting her to ride
whenever she visits.

This simply told story is magnificently brought to life by Graham’s
realistic pastel-and-pencil illustrations. Graham’s reverence for
nature is evident in her detailed rural landscapes, affording close-ups
of wildflowers, creeks and pastures. Horse enthusiasts will pore over
the double-page spreads, eager to identify the Palominos, Pintos, and
Sorrels. Highly recommended.