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Horse Trouble
An American Library Association 2021 Best Graphic Novel for Children
Twelve-year-old Kate is laser-focused on her one true horseback riding. But try as she might, she can't hide from life's problems in the stable.
There's nothing Kate loves more than being around horses. But her best friend is allergic to them, so Kate has to take riding lessons without her. Kate's forced to navigate some of life's hardships―like the mean girls at the stable who tease her and her body insecurities―all on her own. To make matters worse, Kate is continually falling off her horse. To Kate, her tween years feel like one unfair punishment after another. Can she get over it all…and get back on her horse?
Horse Trouble , the debut graphic novel from children's book artist Kristin Varner, is an oh-so-relatable graphic novel with humor and heart.
Twelve-year-old Kate is laser-focused on her one true horseback riding. But try as she might, she can't hide from life's problems in the stable.
There's nothing Kate loves more than being around horses. But her best friend is allergic to them, so Kate has to take riding lessons without her. Kate's forced to navigate some of life's hardships―like the mean girls at the stable who tease her and her body insecurities―all on her own. To make matters worse, Kate is continually falling off her horse. To Kate, her tween years feel like one unfair punishment after another. Can she get over it all…and get back on her horse?
Horse Trouble , the debut graphic novel from children's book artist Kristin Varner, is an oh-so-relatable graphic novel with humor and heart.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
April 25, 2022
3/3.5 stars.
Horse lovers will enjoy this story, however I felt that there was a lot of focus on body image and whilst the ending landed on a positive the majority of the book is focused on fat shaming and bullying.
Horse lovers will enjoy this story, however I felt that there was a lot of focus on body image and whilst the ending landed on a positive the majority of the book is focused on fat shaming and bullying.
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January 25, 2022I loved this! As a former horse gal myself, this was a fun read to revisit my afternoons taking riding lessons. Also, I loved the bonus material at the end that shows the author/illustrators process making the book. Would be great for any budding graphic novelist.
March 24, 2024
ENGLISH VERSION BELOW
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"Hanna – Wackelpudding-Beine, Freundinnentage und das Glück der Erde" von Kristin Varner ist ein Comic, der mit viel Herz und Humor erzählt wird. Es handelt sich um eine Geschichte des Erwachsenwerdens. Die Protagonistin des Buches, mit der sich junge Leser*innen leicht identifizieren können, steht vor den Problemen des Heranwachsens, doch durch ihre Liebe zu Pferden findet sie einen einzigartigen Weg, diesen zu begegnen. Varner thematisiert wichtige Themen wie Freundschaft, Familie und den Mut, sich seinen Ängsten zu stellen; es geht um Themen wie Fatshaming und Mobbing aber auch um Konflikte, die mit Eltern entstehen, wenn man älter wird und Dinge selbstständig entscheiden muss. Daneben geht es – wie der Titel verrät - auch um Pferde.
Die Illustrationen im Buch ergänzen die Erzählung auf wunderbare Weise. Mir gefiel der Zeichenstil und das Farbkonzept.
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"Horse Trouble" by Kristin Varner is a comic that is told with a lot of heart and humour. It is a story about growing up. The book's protagonist, with whom young readers can easily identify, faces the typical problems of adolescence, but through her love of horses she finds a unique way to overcome them. Varner addresses important topics such as friendship, family and the courage to face your fears; it deals with issues such as fatshaming and bullying, but also conflicts that arise with parents when you get older and have to decide things for yourself. As the title suggests, it is also about horses.
The illustrations in the book complement the story in a wonderful way. I liked the drawing style and the colour concept.
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"Hanna – Wackelpudding-Beine, Freundinnentage und das Glück der Erde" von Kristin Varner ist ein Comic, der mit viel Herz und Humor erzählt wird. Es handelt sich um eine Geschichte des Erwachsenwerdens. Die Protagonistin des Buches, mit der sich junge Leser*innen leicht identifizieren können, steht vor den Problemen des Heranwachsens, doch durch ihre Liebe zu Pferden findet sie einen einzigartigen Weg, diesen zu begegnen. Varner thematisiert wichtige Themen wie Freundschaft, Familie und den Mut, sich seinen Ängsten zu stellen; es geht um Themen wie Fatshaming und Mobbing aber auch um Konflikte, die mit Eltern entstehen, wenn man älter wird und Dinge selbstständig entscheiden muss. Daneben geht es – wie der Titel verrät - auch um Pferde.
Die Illustrationen im Buch ergänzen die Erzählung auf wunderbare Weise. Mir gefiel der Zeichenstil und das Farbkonzept.
----------------------------
----------------------------
"Horse Trouble" by Kristin Varner is a comic that is told with a lot of heart and humour. It is a story about growing up. The book's protagonist, with whom young readers can easily identify, faces the typical problems of adolescence, but through her love of horses she finds a unique way to overcome them. Varner addresses important topics such as friendship, family and the courage to face your fears; it deals with issues such as fatshaming and bullying, but also conflicts that arise with parents when you get older and have to decide things for yourself. As the title suggests, it is also about horses.
The illustrations in the book complement the story in a wonderful way. I liked the drawing style and the colour concept.
July 11, 2023
Kate traverses English horse riding and the word of being twelve.
I love the many facts about horses and competing. I also love the panels made up of the various horses in the barn.
This is a quick read full of realistic portrayals of body image, crushes, bullies and best friends. Finding your place is never easy, but I was cheering Kate on at every step.
I love the many facts about horses and competing. I also love the panels made up of the various horses in the barn.
This is a quick read full of realistic portrayals of body image, crushes, bullies and best friends. Finding your place is never easy, but I was cheering Kate on at every step.
July 7, 2024
loved this!! horses, body image, friendship, coming of age - what more could u want! (except why was valerie not gay lol)
the artwork was also so lovely
the body image stuff was a bit triggering but overall i think it was resolved well (for a middle grade story anyway haha)
also thought having the glossary of horsey words was a great idea for those who wouldn't know what they meant!
the artwork was also so lovely
the body image stuff was a bit triggering but overall i think it was resolved well (for a middle grade story anyway haha)
also thought having the glossary of horsey words was a great idea for those who wouldn't know what they meant!
January 30, 2022
comme une envie de regarder grand galop !!!
November 7, 2023
Une belle histoire de passion et de confiance en soi qui grandit doucement. On y parle des enjeux du poids, de l'image corporelle, des amitiés toxiques. J'ai aimé. Beaux croquis.
February 22, 2024
Pre-teen, horse-crazy me would have LOOOOVED this book with all its fun barn facts and illustrated details. Adult me appreciated that it didn't shy away from terms or issues that affect real kids/teens. Cute!
December 3, 2021
This was a real winner! Reminded me of Roller Girl in all the best ways. I was also a horse girl with body insecurity issues and related deeply to all the stuff Kate was going through. It would have been nice to see her grow even more confident in her body and to have fleshed out the consequences a little more for all the "bullying" behaviors that took place in the book. Still, my horsey sensitive inner child loved this book.
November 10, 2021
Kate LOVES horses. She gets to take lessons 2 days of the week and also works a little at the barn to help pay for some of her lessons. As she gets excited about possibly being able to go to the big horse show this year thanks to her improvement in skill, she deals with school, crushes, her body image as a chubby kid, entering puberty, friends, bullies, and when she has an extra scary fall off a horse, the courage to keep doing what she loves.
This feels like your typical coming of age girl book with worries over body image, first period, wearing a bra, crushes who fall for the best friend, and bullies. This adds to that 3 things: 1) getting Kate’s family to understand what helps and hurts her self-esteem related to her body image, 2) her older brother’s friends who make some inappropriate comments and pinch Kate in a way that is totally not ok and how to deal with that (I do have to say, Kate’s brother grows on you over the book…I love how he comes through for her in the end), 3) all the horse riding and showmanship details. My youngest sister is the horse rider in our family who went on to become an equestrian major and now works full time with horses so through her I was familiar with a lot of the terms and things Kate talks about, but there are great footnotes throughout the book about the equestrian vocabulary for those who aren’t familiar with them. The author talks about how some parts of this are autobiographical and other things are completely made up in a note at the end of the book. You can tell she’s obviously a horse rider herself. And I can see someone like my sister loving this book to literal pieces in middle school. I can take or leave this kind of story, but to horse lovers, this will be gold.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sex scenes. There are some scenes with Kate getting dressed and just in her bra. There’s also talk about her first period. And then there’s the slime ball older teens who say inappropriate things to Kate, ask her bra size, and pinch her love handles after ogling a woman in a TV ad. Kate falls off of a horse 10 times, though is never seriously hurt. Another rider falls off, and another one talks about a serious fall that broke his arm. Kate is bullied by a girl at the barn, and Kate eventually does something unkind in retaliation. There is a good resolution to all of that.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This feels like your typical coming of age girl book with worries over body image, first period, wearing a bra, crushes who fall for the best friend, and bullies. This adds to that 3 things: 1) getting Kate’s family to understand what helps and hurts her self-esteem related to her body image, 2) her older brother’s friends who make some inappropriate comments and pinch Kate in a way that is totally not ok and how to deal with that (I do have to say, Kate’s brother grows on you over the book…I love how he comes through for her in the end), 3) all the horse riding and showmanship details. My youngest sister is the horse rider in our family who went on to become an equestrian major and now works full time with horses so through her I was familiar with a lot of the terms and things Kate talks about, but there are great footnotes throughout the book about the equestrian vocabulary for those who aren’t familiar with them. The author talks about how some parts of this are autobiographical and other things are completely made up in a note at the end of the book. You can tell she’s obviously a horse rider herself. And I can see someone like my sister loving this book to literal pieces in middle school. I can take or leave this kind of story, but to horse lovers, this will be gold.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sex scenes. There are some scenes with Kate getting dressed and just in her bra. There’s also talk about her first period. And then there’s the slime ball older teens who say inappropriate things to Kate, ask her bra size, and pinch her love handles after ogling a woman in a TV ad. Kate falls off of a horse 10 times, though is never seriously hurt. Another rider falls off, and another one talks about a serious fall that broke his arm. Kate is bullied by a girl at the barn, and Kate eventually does something unkind in retaliation. There is a good resolution to all of that.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2023
Inner horse girl did not live, laugh, love
- a lot of focus on bullying, fat-shaming etc.
- MC is both a victim and a bully
- most of the issues (fatphobia, bullying, inappropriate sexual behaviour towards the MC) were resolved by the end of the book, but I didn't like how they were resolved
- a lot of focus on bullying, fat-shaming etc.
- MC is both a victim and a bully
- most of the issues (fatphobia, bullying, inappropriate sexual behaviour towards the MC) were resolved by the end of the book, but I didn't like how they were resolved
June 24, 2022
Not a fan of the main character.
CW: broken hymen from riding.
CW: broken hymen from riding.
November 20, 2022
Une sympathique BD jeunesse à saveur biographique douce et pertinente, mettant en vedette une jeune fille de 13 ans à la silhouette rondelette, qui est passionnée d'équitation.
Kate passerait tout son temps au ranch pour s'occuper des chevaux et les monter. Elle y fait de l'équitation classique, mais pour couvrir les frais, elle s'occupe des animaux sur son temps libre. Elle doit cependant composer avec les moqueries de Jana, une jeune fille riche qui a son propre cheval et n'effectue pas de tâches d'entretien. Même les deux amis de son grand-frère l'asticote beaucoup au sujet de son poids. Pour l'adolescente, avoir un corps différent de la norme n'est pas toujours facile, autant pour son propre confort que sous le regard des autres. Mais ses habiletés à l'équitation pourrait bien lui faire changer son regard sur elle-même, quand sa professeur lui propose de participer à un prestigieux concours équestre.
C'est une Bd relativement tranquille, qui a été inspirée par le passé de l'autrice. Ne vous attendez donc pas à y trouver un récit haletant, nous ne sommes pas dans ce genre de registre. C'est plutôt anecdotique et tranche-de-vie, mais n'allez pas croire que c'est moins intéressant pour autant. On a pas beaucoup de personnages qui ont un enjeu de poids, alors avoir leur perspective est intéressant. Kate nous parle des vêtements à rayures qui ne l'avantage pas, de son impression d'inconfort quand elle chevauche et que son gras bouge, des mots blessants qu'usent certaines personnes, parfois même sans mauvaises intentions, de la peur d'être vue en maillot, surtout par le beau garçon de sa classe pour qui elle à la béguin,etc. Comme la plupart des ados filles, en fait, elle a des complexes physiques, mais la différence est que ce complexe est visible et largement mal perçu.
J'attire votre attention sur l'équitation en soit. de manière générale, l'équitation est mal connue et est souvent associée aux riches, car c'est un sport couteux. C'est donc rafraichissant d'avoir une jeune protagoniste de la classe moyenne faire de ce sport. On sent une grande sincérité et un réel attachement aux chevaux, qui sont , après tout, des animaux sensationnels, intelligents et souvent utilisés pour la zoothérapie. Et comme n'importe quel sport, l'équitation joue un rôle dans le développement d'habiletés et de l'estime de soi.
J'ai bien aimé suivre ses relations avec les autres personnages. Certains la faisait niveler vers le bas, alors que d'autres tendait à l'accepter pleinement et prenait alors des rôles de "facteurs de résilience", soit des éléments susceptibles de favoriser le développement de son estime de soi. Aussi, j'ai apprécié le fait que lorsqu'elle a eu l'occasion de se venger de Jana, elle a comprit que la vengeance n'est peut-être pas aussi douce que l'on croit. Au final, elle a eu la maturité de faire un retours auprès d'elle et entre elles s'est développé un certain respect.
Enfin, juste un mot pour le grand frère, qui avait peut-être ses torts quand aux mots péjoratifs utilisés pour désigner Kate, mais qui une fois instruit des gestes posés par ses amis contre elle, les a retirés de sa vie et a prit le parti de sa soeur. Ça fait du bien de voir une figure fraternelle positive de temps en temps. Les grand frères sont souvent décrits comme des asticoteurs de première, mais on oublie de dire que ceux-ci ont aussi souvent des égards pour leurs jeunes frères et soeurs.
Ce livre m'a fait penser aux trois Bd sur les soeurs de Raina Telgeimeier ou encore "Super-Sourde" de Cece Bell. Il n'y a pas forcément de "grand enjeu" ou un grand final, on est plus dans l'accumulation de morceaux de vies, qui se termine avec le concours équestre mentionné dans le titre et sur un début de prise de conscience de la part de Kate quand à son corps.
Le graphisme aussi est doux, tout en rondeurs et en aération. J'aime bien le choix de la palette des bleus parfois accompagnés d'un rose boule de gomme pour mettre l'accent sur certains éléments.
Donc, une charmante BD pour élargir son regard sur la diversité corporelle, en apprendre plus sur le monde équestre et suivre une héroïne aussi attachante que pétillante.
Pour un lectorat du premier cycle secondaire, 13 ans+, mais qui peut aussi plaire aux ados de 11-12 ans, je pense.
Catégorisation: BD jeunesse, Fiction, littérature jeunesse adolescente, premier cycle secondaire, 13-15 ans
Note: 7/10
Kate passerait tout son temps au ranch pour s'occuper des chevaux et les monter. Elle y fait de l'équitation classique, mais pour couvrir les frais, elle s'occupe des animaux sur son temps libre. Elle doit cependant composer avec les moqueries de Jana, une jeune fille riche qui a son propre cheval et n'effectue pas de tâches d'entretien. Même les deux amis de son grand-frère l'asticote beaucoup au sujet de son poids. Pour l'adolescente, avoir un corps différent de la norme n'est pas toujours facile, autant pour son propre confort que sous le regard des autres. Mais ses habiletés à l'équitation pourrait bien lui faire changer son regard sur elle-même, quand sa professeur lui propose de participer à un prestigieux concours équestre.
C'est une Bd relativement tranquille, qui a été inspirée par le passé de l'autrice. Ne vous attendez donc pas à y trouver un récit haletant, nous ne sommes pas dans ce genre de registre. C'est plutôt anecdotique et tranche-de-vie, mais n'allez pas croire que c'est moins intéressant pour autant. On a pas beaucoup de personnages qui ont un enjeu de poids, alors avoir leur perspective est intéressant. Kate nous parle des vêtements à rayures qui ne l'avantage pas, de son impression d'inconfort quand elle chevauche et que son gras bouge, des mots blessants qu'usent certaines personnes, parfois même sans mauvaises intentions, de la peur d'être vue en maillot, surtout par le beau garçon de sa classe pour qui elle à la béguin,etc. Comme la plupart des ados filles, en fait, elle a des complexes physiques, mais la différence est que ce complexe est visible et largement mal perçu.
J'attire votre attention sur l'équitation en soit. de manière générale, l'équitation est mal connue et est souvent associée aux riches, car c'est un sport couteux. C'est donc rafraichissant d'avoir une jeune protagoniste de la classe moyenne faire de ce sport. On sent une grande sincérité et un réel attachement aux chevaux, qui sont , après tout, des animaux sensationnels, intelligents et souvent utilisés pour la zoothérapie. Et comme n'importe quel sport, l'équitation joue un rôle dans le développement d'habiletés et de l'estime de soi.
J'ai bien aimé suivre ses relations avec les autres personnages. Certains la faisait niveler vers le bas, alors que d'autres tendait à l'accepter pleinement et prenait alors des rôles de "facteurs de résilience", soit des éléments susceptibles de favoriser le développement de son estime de soi. Aussi, j'ai apprécié le fait que lorsqu'elle a eu l'occasion de se venger de Jana, elle a comprit que la vengeance n'est peut-être pas aussi douce que l'on croit. Au final, elle a eu la maturité de faire un retours auprès d'elle et entre elles s'est développé un certain respect.
Enfin, juste un mot pour le grand frère, qui avait peut-être ses torts quand aux mots péjoratifs utilisés pour désigner Kate, mais qui une fois instruit des gestes posés par ses amis contre elle, les a retirés de sa vie et a prit le parti de sa soeur. Ça fait du bien de voir une figure fraternelle positive de temps en temps. Les grand frères sont souvent décrits comme des asticoteurs de première, mais on oublie de dire que ceux-ci ont aussi souvent des égards pour leurs jeunes frères et soeurs.
Ce livre m'a fait penser aux trois Bd sur les soeurs de Raina Telgeimeier ou encore "Super-Sourde" de Cece Bell. Il n'y a pas forcément de "grand enjeu" ou un grand final, on est plus dans l'accumulation de morceaux de vies, qui se termine avec le concours équestre mentionné dans le titre et sur un début de prise de conscience de la part de Kate quand à son corps.
Le graphisme aussi est doux, tout en rondeurs et en aération. J'aime bien le choix de la palette des bleus parfois accompagnés d'un rose boule de gomme pour mettre l'accent sur certains éléments.
Donc, une charmante BD pour élargir son regard sur la diversité corporelle, en apprendre plus sur le monde équestre et suivre une héroïne aussi attachante que pétillante.
Pour un lectorat du premier cycle secondaire, 13 ans+, mais qui peut aussi plaire aux ados de 11-12 ans, je pense.
Catégorisation: BD jeunesse, Fiction, littérature jeunesse adolescente, premier cycle secondaire, 13-15 ans
Note: 7/10
March 25, 2022
*3.5 Stars*
TW: Sexual harassment, fat jokes/body shaming, bullying
Oh WOW am I behind on my reviews!
The cover of this book is a smidge misleading; although there are horses in the book and Kate clearly has a passion for riding, Horse Trouble is much more reminiscent of Drama: A Graphic Novel or A-Okay, with tween characters who are struggling to find ways to fit in amongst their peers and coming to terms with their family and friend relationships, and how they want to be perceived by the world. In Kate's case, she's emerging into puberty with an unhealthy body image, and trying to navigate the tricky world of first crushes, changing bodies, sibling conflict, bullies, and more.
This coming-of-age story is skillfully done, with uncomplicated artwork and, of course, horses! The ending is positive and demonstrates real growth on the part of the protagonist as well as side characters, and it would be a solid graphic novel choice for a young tween or teen fan of Telgemeier's work.
Adjacent Reads:
1. Drama: A Graphic Novel by Raina Telgemeier
2. A-Okay by Jarad Greene
3. Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova
TW: Sexual harassment, fat jokes/body shaming, bullying
Oh WOW am I behind on my reviews!
The cover of this book is a smidge misleading; although there are horses in the book and Kate clearly has a passion for riding, Horse Trouble is much more reminiscent of Drama: A Graphic Novel or A-Okay, with tween characters who are struggling to find ways to fit in amongst their peers and coming to terms with their family and friend relationships, and how they want to be perceived by the world. In Kate's case, she's emerging into puberty with an unhealthy body image, and trying to navigate the tricky world of first crushes, changing bodies, sibling conflict, bullies, and more.
This coming-of-age story is skillfully done, with uncomplicated artwork and, of course, horses! The ending is positive and demonstrates real growth on the part of the protagonist as well as side characters, and it would be a solid graphic novel choice for a young tween or teen fan of Telgemeier's work.
Adjacent Reads:
1. Drama: A Graphic Novel by Raina Telgemeier
2. A-Okay by Jarad Greene
3. Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova
November 8, 2021
I do not care what "horse people" think of Horse Trouble by Kristin Varner as it is a delightful story about a young girl who is dealing with the stress of her life and the horses are really "second thoughts that are important to the overall story but shouldn't be nitpicked about." The amount of information and images of horses comes from someone with a "horse background" and therefore, I take their lead.
What I absolutely adored about this book is the realistic mother and her responses to Kate's weight issues. Kate, a happy go lucky girl, until "That Day" happens and she becomes "aware" for the first time how people react to a plus-sized gal, is also wonderfully realistic. I also loved the fact that Becky, the best friend, did not dump Kate as a friend because "all of a sudden she wants to be the cool girl and Kate isn't." Nope, she just loads up on allergy medicine (she's allergic to horses) and cheers her on! Okay, maybe not realistic, but for once a lovely change. I would have liked to seen Valerie (a new girl at the barn) realizing how their actions affected another girl but can't have it all! And I am curious about the rich girl, Jana, and what her background is like. Do I see sequels?
Overall, this book is a delightful read, and people who are horse and non-horse people can get a kick out of it. I love the notes about definitions and explanations of terms on the page itself and not in a glossary at the end. And the little “box of information” when a character is introduced was fun. It helps give you a feel of the characters before you start reading. The only real issue I have are the illustrations. The use of only blue, white, and occasionally pink can make them bleed together, but it also works. I like the fact this book is both modern and old-school feeling at the same time. It is "safe" but has a good message and keeps your attention.
What I absolutely adored about this book is the realistic mother and her responses to Kate's weight issues. Kate, a happy go lucky girl, until "That Day" happens and she becomes "aware" for the first time how people react to a plus-sized gal, is also wonderfully realistic. I also loved the fact that Becky, the best friend, did not dump Kate as a friend because "all of a sudden she wants to be the cool girl and Kate isn't." Nope, she just loads up on allergy medicine (she's allergic to horses) and cheers her on! Okay, maybe not realistic, but for once a lovely change. I would have liked to seen Valerie (a new girl at the barn) realizing how their actions affected another girl but can't have it all! And I am curious about the rich girl, Jana, and what her background is like. Do I see sequels?
Overall, this book is a delightful read, and people who are horse and non-horse people can get a kick out of it. I love the notes about definitions and explanations of terms on the page itself and not in a glossary at the end. And the little “box of information” when a character is introduced was fun. It helps give you a feel of the characters before you start reading. The only real issue I have are the illustrations. The use of only blue, white, and occasionally pink can make them bleed together, but it also works. I like the fact this book is both modern and old-school feeling at the same time. It is "safe" but has a good message and keeps your attention.
October 22, 2021
Kate loves horseback riding. She isn’t one of the rich kids at the stable though–her kit is often secondhand and she works there to afford her lessons. In addition to not being wealthy, she’s pudgy, and a bit clumsy, which all sets her up to be the target of teasing by some means girls. Her older brother also makes a snarky comment that he doesn’t realize she’s going to take so much to heart, and her mother makes a couple of moments too, that altogether don’t do much for her self-esteem. But she’s trying to hang in there. A new girl who also works at the stables and is a new friend, helps.
What helps the most, is her standing up for herself, and also continuing to work on her riding as she gets better with practice. My favorite scene was one where the mean girls had written up a tally of who had fallen off the horses the most–with Kate (and an exaggerated number) at the top. When she tells her coach about it, her coach scoffs at Kate’s low number of falls and says she’ll have to work hard to catch up with the coach herself, who has falling off many time more often. Because if you’re not falling, you’re not learning. You’re not improving. You’re just being cautious and doing what you already know you can do. The coach thinks Kate should instead be proud, like she is, of how many times she’s fallen off her horse. I think that’s a brilliant lesson we all could take to heart.
What helps the most, is her standing up for herself, and also continuing to work on her riding as she gets better with practice. My favorite scene was one where the mean girls had written up a tally of who had fallen off the horses the most–with Kate (and an exaggerated number) at the top. When she tells her coach about it, her coach scoffs at Kate’s low number of falls and says she’ll have to work hard to catch up with the coach herself, who has falling off many time more often. Because if you’re not falling, you’re not learning. You’re not improving. You’re just being cautious and doing what you already know you can do. The coach thinks Kate should instead be proud, like she is, of how many times she’s fallen off her horse. I think that’s a brilliant lesson we all could take to heart.
December 1, 2021
As someone who went through a strong horse-y phase when I was around 10 - 14, I related to this graphic novel so hard. Only difference was I rode Western, not English - I've only ever ridden English once and no wonder poor Kate is always falling off her horse, how does one even stay on those English saddles??? There's nothing there to stop you from sliding right off! It's kind of ridiculous. Western style forever, man, give me a saddle horn to keep me in place and to loop my reins around in case I ever need to rope a steer or something. English is just too fancy. Anyway! Back to Horse Trouble: if you've ever been a teenage girl with self-esteem issues or weight issues and you've loved horses, then you will relate to this book the same way I did. Kate's troubles are the troubles of all girls at that age, especially if you are on the heavier side (as I was and the fictional Kate is). This is such a wonderful book about growing up, gaining confidence, and learning to love and accept yourself. Also: horses!
Still: Western > English, I will die on this hill, feel free to fight me. I'll be over here, doing some barrel racing.
Still: Western > English, I will die on this hill, feel free to fight me. I'll be over here, doing some barrel racing.
January 4, 2022
My daughter read the book and below is her review:
Kate loves horses and loves riding them at the stables. The only problem is, her best friend, Becky, is allergic to them, so Kate has to deal with the mean girls she takes riding lessons with alone. If that wasn’t enough, the mean girls love to make fun of Kate, especially all the times she falls off her horse. At home and at school, Kate has to deal with body insecurities, her obnoxious older brother and his friends, and lots of boy trouble as well. Can she ever gain back her confidence…and feel proud about herself… just as who she is?
Horse Trouble is an amazing authentic story about people, horses, and loving and believing in yourself. I like the way the illustrator described each new character with a panel that describes things like their age, things they’re into, and things they’re not into. The story is beautiful and detailed, with things people like the author could relate to. The cartoony art style is okay, though I like the way the illustrator drew the horses in the book. I recommend Horse Trouble to people who love horses, or to people who can relate to Kate.
Kate loves horses and loves riding them at the stables. The only problem is, her best friend, Becky, is allergic to them, so Kate has to deal with the mean girls she takes riding lessons with alone. If that wasn’t enough, the mean girls love to make fun of Kate, especially all the times she falls off her horse. At home and at school, Kate has to deal with body insecurities, her obnoxious older brother and his friends, and lots of boy trouble as well. Can she ever gain back her confidence…and feel proud about herself… just as who she is?
Horse Trouble is an amazing authentic story about people, horses, and loving and believing in yourself. I like the way the illustrator described each new character with a panel that describes things like their age, things they’re into, and things they’re not into. The story is beautiful and detailed, with things people like the author could relate to. The cartoony art style is okay, though I like the way the illustrator drew the horses in the book. I recommend Horse Trouble to people who love horses, or to people who can relate to Kate.
November 4, 2021
Kate is a middle schooler who loves horses and has been obsessed with them since she was 7 (she's now 12). Although she can't afford to have her own horse, she has been taking riding lessons over the past 4 years and is becoming an accomplished rider, though she does seem to fall off a lot. She pays for her lessons by doing barn chores, but in the process learns so much by being a barn rat, and is trusted to help feed, exercise, and care for the horses. Kate also gets made fun of - at the barn, at school, and at home - for being chubby - and between that and her falls she starts doubting herself. IS she actually a good rider? DOES she need to lose weight? She's a tough cookie, though, and a decent person, and eventually she overcomes those negative feelings, stands up for herself, and makes a great showing. She also gets some support (a little late, but appreciated) from her brother, best friend, barn friend, and mom. Pretty good, but wish Kate wasn't so bullied about her weight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2023
Kate loves horses, but her best friend is allergic and the other girls aren't nice, so she's kinda by herself at the stables. It's expensive to ride, so Kate works at the stable to help pay for her lessons. (I appreciate the acknowledgement that horseback riding, like a lot of activities, is very expensive.) Kate struggles with other girls and body issues, which is relatable, but I wish there was more of a conclusion with both of these issues, including a list of resources. Kate's mom helps her diet, which feels relatable but also not admirable. I wish there was a list of resources at the end. She also falls off the horse a lot, showing readers that it takes a long time to get better at something. While her family and friends aren't always there for her, they are in the end. Definitely a horse girl book because it goes into detail about all the types of gear, competition, and riding. For fans of horses, Roller Girl, and Fifth Quarter.
January 20, 2022
This book was way better than I expected it to be. As a horse lover, I really loved this book. I loved all the characters and the storyline and the illustrations. It was so rewarding to see Ross's changed behavior towards his little sister.
The only problem I had with this book is that I felt that it ended kind of abruptly. The book kind of just stops and I was like O: that's the end? That's Camille for I wanted to read a whole lot more. I hope there is a sequel somewhere in the works. I want to read more about Kate and whether she gets the guy and patches up things with Jana. Also, that new girl Valerie has made me squint suspiciously ever since she arrived. xD
P.S.- I also don't think horse manure stinks that bad. xD I thought I was the only one to think that.
The only problem I had with this book is that I felt that it ended kind of abruptly. The book kind of just stops and I was like O: that's the end? That's Camille for I wanted to read a whole lot more. I hope there is a sequel somewhere in the works. I want to read more about Kate and whether she gets the guy and patches up things with Jana. Also, that new girl Valerie has made me squint suspiciously ever since she arrived. xD
P.S.- I also don't think horse manure stinks that bad. xD I thought I was the only one to think that.
July 13, 2022
Hands down the best horse book I've read in ages. It was very obviously written and illustrated by a horse person. The terminology was spot on, the illustrations (while "cartoony") were accurate with regards to gaits, equipment, etc. The little notes at the bottom of the page explaining terminology were good considering the space available.
I'm only dinging it a star because I physically struggled to read some of the font. It was small and often only a few shades darker than the background color of the illustrations. While I (a 51 year old woman) am obviously not the target audience of this book, I do feel like it shouldn't be assumed that every reader of this book has young, healthy eyes.
I'm only dinging it a star because I physically struggled to read some of the font. It was small and often only a few shades darker than the background color of the illustrations. While I (a 51 year old woman) am obviously not the target audience of this book, I do feel like it shouldn't be assumed that every reader of this book has young, healthy eyes.
September 29, 2024
A graphic novel based on Varner's experiences, it's got a mishmash of most middle school issues from weight/body including her getting her period, to friendships including a bullying situation, family like her older brother (whose friends harassed her and when she shared it with her brother in frustration, he actually stopped being friends with them, which was a nice nod to family ties), and hobbies/sport of her love of horseback riding and competition.
It demonstrates the adage of getting up when you keep getting knocked down as she often falls off her horse but even when it happens toward the end of a competition, she ends up winning. I liked the turquoise color palette and introspection.
It demonstrates the adage of getting up when you keep getting knocked down as she often falls off her horse but even when it happens toward the end of a competition, she ends up winning. I liked the turquoise color palette and introspection.
Read
May 17, 2022Horse Trouble is a delightful graphic novel. As a fellow horse nut myself, reading it took me back to my wonderful memories of riding horses, taking care of them, being at the barn and that wonderful deep bond they form with you. Horse Trouble charms from the very beginning. Kate, as the main character, is just so wonderful, I really loved her! I enjoyed the whole story. From being that age, to falling off your horse, to just trying to figure it all out, Kristin Varner has created a beautiful story that I will enjoy for years to come. I would recommend this to all horse lovers out there of any age.
February 10, 2023
This book will be enjoyable for elementary and middle school girls, as they will all find something to relate to in the story. Kate struggles with body image, bullies, first crushes, making new friends, family dynamics, and puberty all while pursuing her equestrian passion. I found the book to be a genuine and raw story of real issues in a 12-to-13 year old girl’s life, while not pushing any social or political agenda on young people. I also liked Kate as a character; she had a good heart and taught me a lot about horses. I would want to read more of her adventures. Another plus: the illustrations are excellent!
March 9, 2024
Horse Trouble by Kristin Varner is a cute story with a lot of heart about a preteen girl named Kate who loves horses. Kate is a little bit chubby and has to deal with some bullying and name calling from her peers. She handles everything with such maturity for her age and even when she keeps falling off her horse she gets right back on (almost every time). I enjoyed the artwork and all the extra information on the different types of horse jumps, horse tack, and competition lingo. There are also author photos from when she was a preteen with her horse, early character and cover sketches, and the author's process in the back of the book. I think Kate is so relatable and I can imagine this being a wonderful tv show too (similar to the look of Clifford the Big Red Dog).
February 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I like seeing protagonists who don't fit into stereotypical roles. The only thing I didn't like was when the main character rode a horse called Centerfold and she (who is 12) says it reminds her of "girlie magazines" and there's an illustration of a magazine cover that says Playboy next to this.
It's really unfortunate because the book has a lot of great messages about body positivity, friendship, family and perseverance, but I don't feel comfortable putting that in my school library (grades 4-8).
It's really unfortunate because the book has a lot of great messages about body positivity, friendship, family and perseverance, but I don't feel comfortable putting that in my school library (grades 4-8).
March 14, 2022
I really enjoyed Horse Trouble! I was definitely a Kate growing up, dealing with a lot of the same body issues. I also had a horse phase, though Western riding, not English, and went to Girl Scout Horse Camp and read lots of horse stories. I loved the art style and cool tones of the colors used and the storyboarding style of this graphic novel. The character descriptions were so cool. I hope lots of kids find this book because it’s so important to read stories from perspectives that are like yourself and not like yourself. I think many kids will relate to Kate’s story.
May 17, 2022
I liked this one! Kate is a great main character and I really got to understand the struggles someone like her goes through.
I love that her best friend never tried to backstab her, like best friends tend to do in this particular genre. She has a great eye for friends, but maybe not boys (never trust someone who specifically dislikes kpop). The designated mean girl goes through the appropriate character arc and Kate herself changed at a believable pace. Nothing to say about the art, but it got the job done.
I love that her best friend never tried to backstab her, like best friends tend to do in this particular genre. She has a great eye for friends, but maybe not boys (never trust someone who specifically dislikes kpop). The designated mean girl goes through the appropriate character arc and Kate herself changed at a believable pace. Nothing to say about the art, but it got the job done.
May 27, 2022
I had high hopes for this book, I saw a couple page preview and fell in love with the idea. However this is far from a middle grade novel. Some topics I realize some kids deal with at an earlier age than others however it shouldn't be promoted in a graphic novel without explanation to back it up. Topics such as: fat shaming, menstruation, "poppy your cherry", sexualizing a 12 year old, bullying. I do feel like in a novel where you can further explain on these topics it would work, but in a graphic novel it was brushed over. I did like learning about horse terms.
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