Rosie's Wild Ride

Paige Murray is living her dream life on a ranch in Stephenville, TX with her husband Ty, a 9 time world champion cowboy, their two kids, and a whole bunch of animals—including a Clydesdale horse named Rosie. Originally from South Carolina, Paige earned a degree in Animal Science from Clemson University Honors College and after many exciting work experiences is now accomplishing her passion as a children’s book author. Paige’s favorite job is being a stay-at-home mama. Her stories are inspired by her daughter Oakley and stepson Kase and the lessons learned by growing up on a ranch. Rosie’s Wild Ride was her first children’s book.Kristen Humphrey grew up in a small town in southeastern Texas where she spent most of her days drawing and trail riding through pine forests with her beloved thoroughbred, Zeus. She has always shared her home with many different animals who have heavily influenced her artwork. Her love of animals helped influence her artwork in her latest picture book, Rosie’s Wild Ride. While studying Visualization at Texas A&M University, Kristen became interested in children’s book illustration and began using the skills and techniques she was learning to develop her own illustrative style. When she is not drawing, Kristen enjoys dog walking, hiking, and horseback riding in her spare time.

Gr 1-3--Rosie is a Clydesdale, with hooves so big they make 'Horse Thunder.' A work horse on a farm, she dreams of being a rodeo horse, but Thumbs, the barn cat, points out she is too big to rodeo. Oakley, the farmer's daughter, wants to be a 'rodeo star,' but her parents want her to find 'a gentle horse.' Rosie and Oakley realize they make a great team and start training. At the rodeo, they are eager to achieve their mutual dream, but it is quickly dashed when Rosie's size prevents them from succeeding. The crowd boos their efforts, and Rosie realizes she really is 'too big.' When it is announced that a bull is on the loose, Rosie and Oakley ride to the rescue and become the stars of the rodeo. The pastel-hued illustrations fill each page, with panels of pictures on some of these. Rosie stands out with her brown coat and white feathering. The people and animals have a slightly animated feel with Oakley, Rosie, and other characters in the foreground and detailed, while people in the background are vague. The text is integrated into the illustrations, with some terms bolded for emphasis. The last page includes pictures of the author's daughter and a Clydesdale, and brief facts on Clydesdale horses and rodeoing. VERDICT This cotton candy confection of a big horse and a little girl will have broad appeal. Strong first buy.--Tamara Saarinen, School Library Journal