Bookbot

Ellen and Ned

This series delves into the vibrant world of equestrian competition, focusing on the journey of determined young riders. It masterfully weaves together themes of ambition, resilience, and the profound bond between humans and horses. Readers are treated to an inspiring narrative of personal growth and the unwavering spirit needed to succeed. The stories promise an engaging exploration of the challenges and triumphs inherent in horseback riding.

Riding Lessons
Saddles and Secrets
Taking the Reins (An Ellen & Ned Book)

Recommended Reading Order

  1. 1

    Ellen is a spirited - and occasionally misbehaving - young horseback-riding student. Ellen is only allowed to go to riding lessons when she behaves at school and at home. Ellen has a knack for speaking out of turn in class, and with a new sibling on the way, she can't resist taking advantage of her parents' distraction...

    Riding Lessons
  2. 2

    A young rider gets to know a new pony, adjust to a new sibling and learns a lot about secrets in this charming follow-up to Pulitzer Prize winning author Jane Smiley's Riding Lessons.

    Saddles and Secrets
  3. 3

    A young rider encounters well-known horses and new friends in the final installment of the Ellen & Ned trilogy by Pulitzer Prize winner Jane Smiley. Ellen's family has moved to a new town...but some things, like her love for horses, remain the same. Ellen is now the proud owner of her own horse, Tater. She's learning new skills and challenging herself as a rider...but she still can't stop thinking about Ned, the feisty former racehorse she sees on the ranch during her lessons. In the meantime, Ellen's making new friends and encountering old ones. Most exciting of all is Da, a boy from a riding family who is possessed of a spirit of mischief and daring and knows his own mind. Ellen still has a lot to learn...about horses, friendship, and herself. And will she ever be able to get Ned off her mind?

    Taking the Reins (An Ellen & Ned Book)