VERY YOUNG RIDER

Rating:
Summary: A nostalgic gem of a horse book
Review: I used to check this book out of the library every couple of weeks when I was a horse crazed little girl. I wanted to be Vivi Malloy so much when I was young, and I dreamed of being as lucky as she was (she was one lucky kid too!), imagine: parents that support your horse hobby! A cool older sister who rode at the Garden! A new pony every couple of years! I stared and stared at the pictures, and I envied her world so much. Twenty three years later, I still love this book, and would recommend it to all little girls in that phase of "horse love" to whom flying over fences at the Olympics seems downright possible even if all they do is an occasional lesson on a faithful old schoolhorse. This book is also great for us older folks (I'm 33) who remember being Vivi's age in the late 70's, going to horse shows (not quite at her high level though!) in those rust colored britches and check jackets! The only items in the photos that appear dated are the "street clothes" of some of the people, the riding clothes are not really much different today, horses certainly don't look different! The content of the book is not dated at all. I have always wondered what happened to Vivi and Debby also, glad to hear (from another reviewer) that they are still riding! If you are lucky enough to find a copy of this book, buy it. It may be 23 years old, but I bet there are still plenty of girls who would love tangible proof that their pony fantasies can be reality.

Rating:
Summary: This is a beautiful book suited to an young horse lover.
Review: Jill Krementz is a premier photographer and her series of "A Very Young..." books show off her beautiful style. This book about a real young equestrian is beautifully photographed in black and white and wonderfully written. The text is written in the voice of the young girl of the photos as it follows her through a horse show season. The text is simple but not sappy. This is a very appropriate book for ages 5 to 10 and will be a treasured addition to any young person's library. I treasure my "Very Young" books even now in adulthood.

Rating:
Summary: This is a beautiful book suited to an young horse lover.
Review: Jill Krementz is a premier photographer and her series of "A Very Young..." books show off her beautiful style. This book about a real young equestrian is beautifully photographed in black and white and wonderfully written. The text is written in the voice of the young girl of the photos as it follows her through a horse show season. The text is simple but not sappy. This is a very appropriate book for ages 5 to 10 and will be a treasured addition to any young person's library. I treasure my "Very Young" books even now in adulthood.

Rating:
Summary: A must-have book for the young horse lover.
Review: This is one of the first books I can remember buying as a young girl. I am now 28 years old, and the book is still on my shelf. I will keep it forever, and hopefully pass it on to another young horse lover someday. It is beautifully illustrated and well written. I only wish for a sequel or more information about Vivi or her family and their love of riding.