Four of a Kind

Left in Idaho for the summer with his crotchety grandfather, Andy looks forward to taking care of Maggie and Tom, the twin Percheron draft horses next door. Andy's divorced parents have no time for him, and the big horses offer some consolation. In the best National Velvet tradition, Andy sets his heart on owning the team and training the horses for the big pulling contest at the state fair. Facing each challenge with true grit, Andy discovers hidden strength and the renewed love of his family. Sherlock explores the theme of many favorite stories in which outward success goes hand-in-hand with inner growth, as in Mary O'Hara's My Friend Flicka and Jim Kjelgaard's dog stories. This first novel combines a love for an all-but-lost sport and way of life with straightforward storytelling that is sure to win over even the most cynical readers. Ages 8-12. (Oct.)