Thursday, November 7, 2013

Blue Ribbon Day by Catherine Hapka -- ESSENTIAL


Hapka, Catherine Pony Scouts: Blue Ribbon Day, illustrated by Anne Kennedy. 32 pgs. HarperCollins, 2013. $3.99. Content: G.

Horse-loving Jill, Meg, and Annie are excited to visit the fair, where Jill's mom will be competing in the driving class with her ponies. When they arrive, the girls are set loose to explore the bustling grounds with the promise that they will return before Jill's mom's event. They have a terrific time, with only one problem: they keep running into Ben, a haughty boy who loves to win -- and then brag about it. When the girls finally one-up him, will they boast like Ben does or take the high road?

Blue Ribbon Day perfectly captures the frenetic feeling of a county fair, as well as some of the pre-show nervousness from those about to compete. It would be especially appealing to horse lovers, but the examples of good sportsmanship make it appropriate for all audiences. Although it is part of a series, it stands alone nicely.

Pre-K, EL (K-3) -- ESSENTIAL. Reviewed by: Caryn.

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