“My back hurt and the saddle had the wrong pad. Again. I was tired of dealing with so many different riders. I was tired of the saddle hurting my back. I was just plain tired of people.” - The Buckskin Mare, Ellie’s Story A weak, starved donkey foal arrives on the farm. Traumatized from neglect, the baby donkey is close to giving up. Ellie, an old buckskin mare, is desperate to help her new friend. Ellie gladly shares her food and her story, hoping to impart life lessons to inspire the baby donkey to fight for his life. In the tradition of Black Beauty , Ellie tells her adventurous journey from a rejected outlaw to a beloved family horse. With sarcasm and humor, Ellie gives the reader an honest view of life as a horse in the modern world. "Throughout Ellie's tale, readers will learn the love and commitment that goes into equine care, including the special bond horses can build with just the right person. Schueler's novel unfolds from Ellie's first-person perspective, as she talks to her stablemate, Phoenix, and Donkeyotee about her history and their present circumstances. Her voice stays steady and confident, and telling the story from Ellie's point of view allows YA readers an opportunity to grasp the inner nature and temperament of horses, in a way that feels smooth and natural." Booklife " Brimming with resilience, humor, and hope, this novel will delight horse lovers of all ages! Narrated from a distinctive perspective, it invites readers on an adventure across the diverse landscapes of the United States, from sprawling cattle ranches in the West, cozy backyard barns, bustling boarding stables, famous racetracks, and exciting horse shows. Readers will experience each setting through the eyes of a horse and gain a better understanding of their world. Written with a combination of humor and poignancy, readers will develop a deeper sense of empathy for the numerous trials and mistreatments that horses endure in our world, and in turn, find their love for these animals growing with each page. Overall, this is a delightful tale that is perfect for anyone who loves horses!" Emily Carey, Reedsy Discovery