Keeping Barney

by Jessie Haas

Sarah discovers that taking care of a horse is a combination of hard work, joy, and satisfaction when Barney comes into her life

Genres: Horses

Library Binding

First published January 1, 1986

About the author

Jessie Haas has written over 35 books for children and adults, many about horses--a lifelong passion. She currently owns a Morgan mare, Robin, who is being clicker-trained to be a trail and pasture-dressage horse. She lives in a small, off-grid house in the woods with husband Michael J. Daley, two cats and a dog. When not writing or riding or reading she likes to knit, cook, and write, or ride, or read.

Reviews

[Vom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Animals are complicated, difficult, and ornery. They have their own view of the world and their own wants and desires. This is the part that makes them loveable, but it doesn't make them easy.

Or, the first time I read a book that said reality, with all its disappointments and complications, is better than fantasy. Also, things don't always magically turn out.

[Kendra]

Quick read of a youngster learning how to be a partner with an older horse, set in his ways and stubborn.

This book has a note inside with my name in it, and showing it was bought in 1987, up at White Settlement, TX by my folks. Funny! And WOW! can I ignore at how time flies?!!!

[Bonnie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet tale about Sarah, a 13-year-old girl who gets a half-Morgan to care for while her owner is away at college. Barney is stubborn and mischievous and set in his ways and not exactly the dream horse Sarah hoped for. They learn from each other about trust and responsibility. A quick and easy read.

[Rena Sherwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books ever written about a girl and a horse that behaves very unexpectedly. Enjoyable read for adult horse lovers, too. Barney is one of the most memorable characters in equine literature.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful writer and horse story.