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Christa's Luck: The story of a girl, her horse, and the last wild mustangs
Inspired by a real horse rescue, Christa's Luck is a teen fiction novel about Christa's love for an endangered herd of wild horses and how her special connection with them inspires her to look beyond her own unforgivable mistakes and try again. She rises up to become a horse advocate at fourteen, whose passion and heart move an entire town to take action. In the vein of The Horse Whisperer and the Black Stallion, Christa's Luck is an epic adventure story of courage, friendship and freedom.
- GenresHorses
328 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2015
12 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 24, 2021
It is said that every girl loves horses, rainbows and unicorns; that's very true even for this former tom-boy! I worked with horses years ago and still love them today~I always hoped to be a cowgirl when I grew up. I loved reading books as a child and read all the horse books I could find Black Beauty, the Chincoteague books any horse book I could find. I also studied them in high school and have always loved them.
Christa's Luck is no exception! From the first chapter I was drawn into Christa's world, she loved horses and had a passion for the wild mustangs roaming in her small area in Nevada. The Lost Herd was legendary, some said a myth but Christa and her family found them and kept track of them as a government agency was trying to capture the mustangs and remove them from Nevada for a profit from a company trying to gain access to the land the mustangs roamed.
This book captures about 6 months of Christa's life she is a thirteen year old girl who grows up a lot in this time. She is an accomplished rider at this sweet age and goes through so many heartaches during the book. She grows so much though her troubles and eventually she becomes a heroine to her family and to the town she calls home. I cried tears for her heartaches and accomplishments in this book. I would recommend this book for any young adult who loves to read, loving horses is a plus! The authors brought this story to life after hearing of a similar story and they worked the story beautifully into this book. I would defiantly read more from them.
Christa's Luck is no exception! From the first chapter I was drawn into Christa's world, she loved horses and had a passion for the wild mustangs roaming in her small area in Nevada. The Lost Herd was legendary, some said a myth but Christa and her family found them and kept track of them as a government agency was trying to capture the mustangs and remove them from Nevada for a profit from a company trying to gain access to the land the mustangs roamed.
This book captures about 6 months of Christa's life she is a thirteen year old girl who grows up a lot in this time. She is an accomplished rider at this sweet age and goes through so many heartaches during the book. She grows so much though her troubles and eventually she becomes a heroine to her family and to the town she calls home. I cried tears for her heartaches and accomplishments in this book. I would recommend this book for any young adult who loves to read, loving horses is a plus! The authors brought this story to life after hearing of a similar story and they worked the story beautifully into this book. I would defiantly read more from them.
August 6, 2015
Every now and again I pick up a YA book (this is my second one in six weeks so there must be something in the air!) Christa’s Luck appealed to me ’cause I have always loved horse. I used to ride when I was a teenager and given more land and lots more money I’d have a horse now – well, after the llama and the pig. I’ve seen the wild horses at Chincoteague in Virginia but wasn’t lucky enough to see the mustangs of the west. I know the roundups have been controversial. I live in a ranching state and it’s a powerful lobby – just ask the poor bison. But that’s another story altogether.
Christa is teenager full of all of the angst that the age brings. Her best friend is her horse Lucky. Her sister is perfect and it seems that Christa can do nothing right. She finds a passion when she sees The Lost Herd, a band of mustangs known mostly as legend. She wants to make sure they stay wild but she has a long road to go.
Christa is hard to like sometimes but teenagers are challenging in real life and that just proves that she is a well written, fully developed character. She really finds herself through her love of the wild horses and that is something all teens need. There are parts of the story – particularly the ending that just seem to serve the purpose of the ending that I struggled with – and it’s not just in the reading of a YA book. I’ve read many that I’ve enjoyed wholeheartedly. But this is a book that I believe many adults and most teens – especially those that love horses will truly enjoy.
4.5
Christa is teenager full of all of the angst that the age brings. Her best friend is her horse Lucky. Her sister is perfect and it seems that Christa can do nothing right. She finds a passion when she sees The Lost Herd, a band of mustangs known mostly as legend. She wants to make sure they stay wild but she has a long road to go.
Christa is hard to like sometimes but teenagers are challenging in real life and that just proves that she is a well written, fully developed character. She really finds herself through her love of the wild horses and that is something all teens need. There are parts of the story – particularly the ending that just seem to serve the purpose of the ending that I struggled with – and it’s not just in the reading of a YA book. I’ve read many that I’ve enjoyed wholeheartedly. But this is a book that I believe many adults and most teens – especially those that love horses will truly enjoy.
4.5
February 28, 2022
such a wonderful book! I love it, even though it has like the same plot and characters of every other horse book (trust me I know i've read them all) it was truly touching to see the development of this story. DEFINITELY READ!!!
June 3, 2023
4.5 stars
Ah, teenage girls + horses; always a topic to enjoy in a book!
This one particularly stood out to me. It had the rounding up of wild mustangs as part of the plot, a topic I’ve been interested in since reading Marguerite Henry’s, “Wild Mustangs of the West”, years ago. Wild Horse Annie was a hero of mine, just as she is to the young protagonist, Christa, because she fought so hard to make round-ups of mustangs illegal, back in the ‘50’s and 60’s. Christa and her family see this becoming a problem again in Nevada where they live, and refuse to simply step back and do nothing to solve it. Even if it means going up against some very tough people…
If this book had existed during my horse-crazy phase, I would have re-read it many times, and it would have had a place on the shelf next to the “Misty” books, and my Breyer horse collection.
Ah, teenage girls + horses; always a topic to enjoy in a book!
This one particularly stood out to me. It had the rounding up of wild mustangs as part of the plot, a topic I’ve been interested in since reading Marguerite Henry’s, “Wild Mustangs of the West”, years ago. Wild Horse Annie was a hero of mine, just as she is to the young protagonist, Christa, because she fought so hard to make round-ups of mustangs illegal, back in the ‘50’s and 60’s. Christa and her family see this becoming a problem again in Nevada where they live, and refuse to simply step back and do nothing to solve it. Even if it means going up against some very tough people…
If this book had existed during my horse-crazy phase, I would have re-read it many times, and it would have had a place on the shelf next to the “Misty” books, and my Breyer horse collection.
August 12, 2015
Decades ago, in my elementary school years, I read Misty of Chincoteague. I may not remember the story line exactly but the feeling of that book has stayed with me.
Christa's Luck is another book that is exciting to read, should be shared with children, younger siblings, and will be remembered for decades. The writing is excellent and captures the tone of a teenager perfectly.
While the main subject is protecting the wild mustangs in Nevada from being rounded up, their lifestyle and freedom taken away, there are other things going on worthy of sharing in a family read.
Relationships, sibling tensions, the circle of life. I admit at one point I was brought to tears.
Christa and her grandmother have a special relationship.
Christa's mother is dealing with health issues.
Her sister is boy crazy.
The organization that is supposed to be looking out for the best interests of the area and the horses is not doing the best it can.
All things mix well to keep the story moving and interesting.
Then there is Jenner who has his own challenges and brings complications to Christa's life; not to mention her impulsive nature. She may also be beginning to notice boys.
The writing perfectly captured the tone of a teenager.
The Lost Herd is a legendary myth until Christa (with help from beloved pony Lucky) discovers they are still nearby. With the help of her sister and a new friend, the three girls become heroes.
I received this book in exchange for a review but it has become a favorite.
I recommend it to any animal lovers and young readers of both genders.
Christa's Luck is another book that is exciting to read, should be shared with children, younger siblings, and will be remembered for decades. The writing is excellent and captures the tone of a teenager perfectly.
While the main subject is protecting the wild mustangs in Nevada from being rounded up, their lifestyle and freedom taken away, there are other things going on worthy of sharing in a family read.
Relationships, sibling tensions, the circle of life. I admit at one point I was brought to tears.
Christa and her grandmother have a special relationship.
Christa's mother is dealing with health issues.
Her sister is boy crazy.
The organization that is supposed to be looking out for the best interests of the area and the horses is not doing the best it can.
All things mix well to keep the story moving and interesting.
Then there is Jenner who has his own challenges and brings complications to Christa's life; not to mention her impulsive nature. She may also be beginning to notice boys.
The writing perfectly captured the tone of a teenager.
The Lost Herd is a legendary myth until Christa (with help from beloved pony Lucky) discovers they are still nearby. With the help of her sister and a new friend, the three girls become heroes.
I received this book in exchange for a review but it has become a favorite.
I recommend it to any animal lovers and young readers of both genders.
September 2, 2015
This book was amazing. I received a free copy to review for my blog and I LOVED IT! Here's the review I posted on my blog ... https://eviljoyspeaks.wordpress.com/2...
I try very hard to read everything my kids read … before they do. I like to know the subject matter and I always worry about the age appropriateness of the the materials they have in hand. Typically I read a book a week that is one of “theirs” and a book a week that for me.
I was thrilled to read Christa’s Luck because while it is a young adult novel, it held my attention and sparked my interest as much or more than any of the other young adult novels I’ve read in the past few months. I was drawn into the story and felt connected to the characters immediately.
Christa, the main character, is a young girl experiencing her life and all the pieces that make life what it is. She’s at the awkward age of 13 and only feels truly at peace when she’s riding her horse Lucky. Christa is passionate about protecting the wild mustangs roaming free in her home state. During the novel, Christa experiences tragedy and must find her way. She has to find the strength to recover from a mistake and continue forward towards hope and happiness.
More than once i was moved to tears while reading Christa’s Luck. Rarely has a young adult novel moved me emotionally.
I throughly enjoyed every minute I spent reading this book. As soon as I finished my 12 year daughter read it and then we both read it AGAIN together. (And last night I caught all three of my girls up reading with a flashlight. The 12 year old was sharing this book with her younger sisters.)
I would recommend this book to anyone without hesitation. The lessons shared through the pages apply to more than just Christa’s life – they translate well into the real world.
I try very hard to read everything my kids read … before they do. I like to know the subject matter and I always worry about the age appropriateness of the the materials they have in hand. Typically I read a book a week that is one of “theirs” and a book a week that for me.
I was thrilled to read Christa’s Luck because while it is a young adult novel, it held my attention and sparked my interest as much or more than any of the other young adult novels I’ve read in the past few months. I was drawn into the story and felt connected to the characters immediately.
Christa, the main character, is a young girl experiencing her life and all the pieces that make life what it is. She’s at the awkward age of 13 and only feels truly at peace when she’s riding her horse Lucky. Christa is passionate about protecting the wild mustangs roaming free in her home state. During the novel, Christa experiences tragedy and must find her way. She has to find the strength to recover from a mistake and continue forward towards hope and happiness.
More than once i was moved to tears while reading Christa’s Luck. Rarely has a young adult novel moved me emotionally.
I throughly enjoyed every minute I spent reading this book. As soon as I finished my 12 year daughter read it and then we both read it AGAIN together. (And last night I caught all three of my girls up reading with a flashlight. The 12 year old was sharing this book with her younger sisters.)
I would recommend this book to anyone without hesitation. The lessons shared through the pages apply to more than just Christa’s life – they translate well into the real world.
June 5, 2022
I LOVED this book! The main character is a horse obsessed young girl who faces tremendous personal obstacles & is driven to save a mythic wild horse herd near where she lives in Nevada.
It’s a story of sticking in there & finding the will to continue on, amidst tremendous adversity.
This book is also incredibly inspiring to read if you’re interested in learning more about the complicated issue of the wild mustangs in North America. 🐎
It weaves in the spiritual depth of the human/horse relationship & WHY horses are so healing.
This book drew me in right away and honestly the process of reading it helped me through a very challenging time.
Check it out! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did.
It’s a story of sticking in there & finding the will to continue on, amidst tremendous adversity.
This book is also incredibly inspiring to read if you’re interested in learning more about the complicated issue of the wild mustangs in North America. 🐎
It weaves in the spiritual depth of the human/horse relationship & WHY horses are so healing.
This book drew me in right away and honestly the process of reading it helped me through a very challenging time.
Check it out! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did.
September 14, 2015
Every once in a while, I am reminded of why I love reading. Reading is something that can connect you to anything as long as you allow your imagination the freedom it needs. What I loved about Christa's Luck is the connection it gave me to my past, bringing back fond memories. The book reminded me of the love I have for horses and the horseback riding I did as a child. It made me want to get back out and become involved with horses once again.
Christa's Luck is a story about a teen girl, her horse, and the wild horses of Nevada. Christa is a 13-year-old girl who has been able to ride a horse since she could walk. She loves riding out on the trails that take her into the nearby forests and mountains. Out there is where the wild mustangs roam free, where there are legends of a Lost Herd – the biggest herd in the area – that no man can catch. Christa loves theses horses, their spirits wild and free, and she would do anything for them. That willingness is soon tested because there are people rounding up the wild mustangs and taking them to unknown places to be sold or slaughtered. Christa and her friends fight to stop the round ups, but soon tragedy strikes and she finds herself banding together with those she has been fighting to save her beloved mustangs.
Christa's Luck was truly an inspirational story. It opens your eyes to realities your everyday person wouldn't always think about and it makes you feel like you can do anything if you set your heart and mind to it. The story was inspired by a true horse rescue in the Netherlands several years ago. After watching the video of the rescue, I appreciated even more every word written.
Christa is such a strong character, yet still fragile at times. She is a young teen, still trying to find her place in the world, and her beloved horses help her to find that place. She becomes an advocate for the horses, doing everything she possibly can to stop the round ups, and to get the community more aware of what was truly happening. You could see her growing as you read, becoming more confident. Her family and friends were just as important to the storyline, giving her the courage she needed to keep going. We can't forget the horses, either. Every single horse comes alive on the page; they are amazing creatures, so strong and proud, and Christa needs them just as much as they need her.
You could feel the passion that Christa, her family, friends, and even the whole community felt towards the culling of the wild mustangs. You felt the heart-breaking love Christa had for the horses, tame and free both; you could feel the strong bonds, the connection Christa had with these amazing creatures. The authors knew how to evoke those same emotions in the reader. You found yourself laughing and smiling with Christa, crying when she cried; you could feel every emotion. It takes truly talented writers to get that sort of response from their audience.
There were a few consistency issues in this book. Christa saw her first round up on a weekend and went to school on Monday, the next day she was getting up early and riding all day in search of the lost herd, no thought of school. I noticed this time jump or mistep a couple times as I was reading, but this one stood out the most.
The imagery the authors created in this book was incredible. I could almost feel the wind whipping through the horses' manes as they ran at break neck paces; I could see the breath-taking beauty of the landscapes Christa and her friends traversed, and even experience the wildness of the storms that threatened everything they held dear.
Christa's Luck makes the reader become aware of the hardships and even the beauty of the horses still running wild today, all over the world. It makes them want to do their own research on the subject, to see what they can do to help in any way they can. It made me realize that I don't want to see the end of these incredible, beautiful, free animals.
I hope to read many more adventures about Christa and the Lost Herd. After you read this story, if you are interested in the inspiration behind it, here is the video of the real rescue:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_BLS...
One Last Thought: Other than a few grammatical errors - missing quotations marks - and the inconsistencies mentioned earlier, this book was very well written and edited.
Favorite Thing About the Book: I loved the relationships Christa developed with her horses. You could really feel the love she has for all of them.
First Sentence: Looking back, I could have never known how the Lost Herd would change my life forever.
Favorite Character: Jenner
Least Favorite Character: Steve Simmons
For more of my reviews please visit www.readinglark.blogspot.com
Christa's Luck is a story about a teen girl, her horse, and the wild horses of Nevada. Christa is a 13-year-old girl who has been able to ride a horse since she could walk. She loves riding out on the trails that take her into the nearby forests and mountains. Out there is where the wild mustangs roam free, where there are legends of a Lost Herd – the biggest herd in the area – that no man can catch. Christa loves theses horses, their spirits wild and free, and she would do anything for them. That willingness is soon tested because there are people rounding up the wild mustangs and taking them to unknown places to be sold or slaughtered. Christa and her friends fight to stop the round ups, but soon tragedy strikes and she finds herself banding together with those she has been fighting to save her beloved mustangs.
Christa's Luck was truly an inspirational story. It opens your eyes to realities your everyday person wouldn't always think about and it makes you feel like you can do anything if you set your heart and mind to it. The story was inspired by a true horse rescue in the Netherlands several years ago. After watching the video of the rescue, I appreciated even more every word written.
Christa is such a strong character, yet still fragile at times. She is a young teen, still trying to find her place in the world, and her beloved horses help her to find that place. She becomes an advocate for the horses, doing everything she possibly can to stop the round ups, and to get the community more aware of what was truly happening. You could see her growing as you read, becoming more confident. Her family and friends were just as important to the storyline, giving her the courage she needed to keep going. We can't forget the horses, either. Every single horse comes alive on the page; they are amazing creatures, so strong and proud, and Christa needs them just as much as they need her.
You could feel the passion that Christa, her family, friends, and even the whole community felt towards the culling of the wild mustangs. You felt the heart-breaking love Christa had for the horses, tame and free both; you could feel the strong bonds, the connection Christa had with these amazing creatures. The authors knew how to evoke those same emotions in the reader. You found yourself laughing and smiling with Christa, crying when she cried; you could feel every emotion. It takes truly talented writers to get that sort of response from their audience.
There were a few consistency issues in this book. Christa saw her first round up on a weekend and went to school on Monday, the next day she was getting up early and riding all day in search of the lost herd, no thought of school. I noticed this time jump or mistep a couple times as I was reading, but this one stood out the most.
The imagery the authors created in this book was incredible. I could almost feel the wind whipping through the horses' manes as they ran at break neck paces; I could see the breath-taking beauty of the landscapes Christa and her friends traversed, and even experience the wildness of the storms that threatened everything they held dear.
Christa's Luck makes the reader become aware of the hardships and even the beauty of the horses still running wild today, all over the world. It makes them want to do their own research on the subject, to see what they can do to help in any way they can. It made me realize that I don't want to see the end of these incredible, beautiful, free animals.
I hope to read many more adventures about Christa and the Lost Herd. After you read this story, if you are interested in the inspiration behind it, here is the video of the real rescue:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_BLS...
One Last Thought: Other than a few grammatical errors - missing quotations marks - and the inconsistencies mentioned earlier, this book was very well written and edited.
Favorite Thing About the Book: I loved the relationships Christa developed with her horses. You could really feel the love she has for all of them.
First Sentence: Looking back, I could have never known how the Lost Herd would change my life forever.
Favorite Character: Jenner
Least Favorite Character: Steve Simmons
For more of my reviews please visit www.readinglark.blogspot.com
September 14, 2015
Review originally posted at Lost in a Great Boo.
I was never one of those horse-loving girls growing up. I was actually a little scared of them, truth be told, but I had great admiration for all my friends who rode regularly and who were as comfortable around horse stables as they were anywhere else. I mention that because Christa’s Luck is a story for everyone – animal lovers, nature enthusiasts and eco-warriors especially – that is full of heart and emotion via a young girl’s coming of age.
The beginning of the book really sets the scene, and I enjoyed Christa as a character. She’s a girl who really doesn’t feel like she fits in anywhere except when she’s on a horse, and even then she’s continually comparing herself to her sister and father. I could feel her loneliness coming off the page, and it was such a great moment when she began to find friends again. I also thought the family scenes were realistically portrayed, and Christa was portrayed as a normal young woman, with flaws just like any real-life girl her age.
The best part of the book for me was Christa’s realization that she had found her passion in saving the Lost Herd and other wild mustangs from the Round Up. Watching teens experience that moment when they find something to excite and motivate them is magical, and Christa’s evolution from scatterbrained girl to a determined and passionate young woman is as much the heart of the book as the fight to save the horses. One other point: many books for middle grade/YA readers often sideline the parents as flat characters. This is not the case with Christa’s parents, and it was lovely to see a realistic portrayal of her mother and father as individuals who struggled with their own issues. There were some powerful moments when her family came together to support and assist Christa; we need more moments like that in MG/YA literature!
Younger readers may need some preparation for the loss of Lucky, Christa’s horse, as the scene is traumatic in its authenticity. Similarly, the herding of the wild stallions is vividly portrayed, and the same emotions felt by Christa will be echoed by the reader. The affection felt by the authors for these wild herds is apparent, and the descriptions of each of the horses brings them to life before the reader’s eyes. I found myself researching the wild herds after reading this book, and found them to be just as magnificent as the authors had portrayed them to be in the book.
I appreciated that the Grais’ allowed Christa to react normally to such a horrible process, and to initially respond to her anger in a manner that could be echoed by readers (letters, texts, emails to officials). Teaching kids about social justice and how they can start to make a difference without being preachy can be a fine line, and the natural portrayal of Christa’s developing social activism is a lovely example of how it can work in books. I also appreciated how the authors introduced Jenner, and how his relationship with Christa took time to develop. Getting over a loss such as the one Christa faced is not easy, and I appreciated that they allowed her time to grieve and to build a relationship with her next horse over time.
Christa’s Luck is a wonderful read for everyone, horse lovers and beyond. I would also suggest that this would make a great family read, as I think that there are some great opportunities for discussion between adults and younger readers. It’s important to remind kids of all ages that they have the power to make a difference, and that their voice deserves to be heard.
I was never one of those horse-loving girls growing up. I was actually a little scared of them, truth be told, but I had great admiration for all my friends who rode regularly and who were as comfortable around horse stables as they were anywhere else. I mention that because Christa’s Luck is a story for everyone – animal lovers, nature enthusiasts and eco-warriors especially – that is full of heart and emotion via a young girl’s coming of age.
The beginning of the book really sets the scene, and I enjoyed Christa as a character. She’s a girl who really doesn’t feel like she fits in anywhere except when she’s on a horse, and even then she’s continually comparing herself to her sister and father. I could feel her loneliness coming off the page, and it was such a great moment when she began to find friends again. I also thought the family scenes were realistically portrayed, and Christa was portrayed as a normal young woman, with flaws just like any real-life girl her age.
The best part of the book for me was Christa’s realization that she had found her passion in saving the Lost Herd and other wild mustangs from the Round Up. Watching teens experience that moment when they find something to excite and motivate them is magical, and Christa’s evolution from scatterbrained girl to a determined and passionate young woman is as much the heart of the book as the fight to save the horses. One other point: many books for middle grade/YA readers often sideline the parents as flat characters. This is not the case with Christa’s parents, and it was lovely to see a realistic portrayal of her mother and father as individuals who struggled with their own issues. There were some powerful moments when her family came together to support and assist Christa; we need more moments like that in MG/YA literature!
Younger readers may need some preparation for the loss of Lucky, Christa’s horse, as the scene is traumatic in its authenticity. Similarly, the herding of the wild stallions is vividly portrayed, and the same emotions felt by Christa will be echoed by the reader. The affection felt by the authors for these wild herds is apparent, and the descriptions of each of the horses brings them to life before the reader’s eyes. I found myself researching the wild herds after reading this book, and found them to be just as magnificent as the authors had portrayed them to be in the book.
I appreciated that the Grais’ allowed Christa to react normally to such a horrible process, and to initially respond to her anger in a manner that could be echoed by readers (letters, texts, emails to officials). Teaching kids about social justice and how they can start to make a difference without being preachy can be a fine line, and the natural portrayal of Christa’s developing social activism is a lovely example of how it can work in books. I also appreciated how the authors introduced Jenner, and how his relationship with Christa took time to develop. Getting over a loss such as the one Christa faced is not easy, and I appreciated that they allowed her time to grieve and to build a relationship with her next horse over time.
Christa’s Luck is a wonderful read for everyone, horse lovers and beyond. I would also suggest that this would make a great family read, as I think that there are some great opportunities for discussion between adults and younger readers. It’s important to remind kids of all ages that they have the power to make a difference, and that their voice deserves to be heard.
August 21, 2015
Christa loves horses, and the thought of the last few herds of wild mustangs in Nevada being rounded up and being taken into captivity breaks her heart. Christa is a typical teenager, at that awkward age, not quite adult, not quite child – uncomfortable with herself and at odds with her family. She tries, but she makes mistakes. In a terrible turn of events her best friend Lucky dies and Christa can’t forgive herself because she knows it’s her fault. Knowing that Lucky would want her to continue to ride, Christa begins to ride Jenner, given to her by her family for her 14th birthday.
Seemingly perfect, and purchased at a steal of a price, they soon discover the reason. While on a hunt for the fabled lost herd of Nevada, Jenner and Christa face serious danger. Though they locate the herd, the twists and turns in the story turn 14-year-old Christa into an advocate for wild mustangs, bring her and Jenner into life-threatening danger and cause the town to work together.
The story starts out at a gentle reading pace but picks up speed towards the climax as the suspense builds so that you won’t want to put the book down until you know what happens to the beautiful mustangs.
The authors have a wonderful way with words when it comes to describing these beautiful, majestic creatures and the thought that the Bureau of Land Management wanted to reduce these herds to zero brought tears to my eyes. Having never seen a herd of wild mustangs before myself, I can only imagine how amazing it must be. After having read this book, if I had the opportunity, I would definitely love to do so.
I thought the characters were fairly realistic. The squabbling between Christa and her sister seemed pretty normal for sisters. I was a little surprised however that while Christa’s parents were very concerned about Christa taking part in the rescue, they didn’t seem much concerned about Christa’s sister taking part even though they were riding together and their roles were equally dangerous. Neither did the parents of Christa’s friend seem concerned when she volunteered.
I loved that this story was based on a true story. Watching movies or reading books based on true stories always captures my imagination about what can truly be accomplished in real life. I always like to think that these types of stories are not far off from the actual events. I’m thrilled that the authors have provided links to further information about wild mustang rescues and other related information on their website and this review post.
Christa’s Luck was a wonderful, suspenseful read that will be enjoyed by animal lovers in general and horse lovers in particular especially in the teen age category. I would highly recommend it. I gave it 5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
To see my complete review, visit Shelf Full of Books http://kathrynsshelffullofbooks.blogs...
Seemingly perfect, and purchased at a steal of a price, they soon discover the reason. While on a hunt for the fabled lost herd of Nevada, Jenner and Christa face serious danger. Though they locate the herd, the twists and turns in the story turn 14-year-old Christa into an advocate for wild mustangs, bring her and Jenner into life-threatening danger and cause the town to work together.
The story starts out at a gentle reading pace but picks up speed towards the climax as the suspense builds so that you won’t want to put the book down until you know what happens to the beautiful mustangs.
The authors have a wonderful way with words when it comes to describing these beautiful, majestic creatures and the thought that the Bureau of Land Management wanted to reduce these herds to zero brought tears to my eyes. Having never seen a herd of wild mustangs before myself, I can only imagine how amazing it must be. After having read this book, if I had the opportunity, I would definitely love to do so.
I thought the characters were fairly realistic. The squabbling between Christa and her sister seemed pretty normal for sisters. I was a little surprised however that while Christa’s parents were very concerned about Christa taking part in the rescue, they didn’t seem much concerned about Christa’s sister taking part even though they were riding together and their roles were equally dangerous. Neither did the parents of Christa’s friend seem concerned when she volunteered.
I loved that this story was based on a true story. Watching movies or reading books based on true stories always captures my imagination about what can truly be accomplished in real life. I always like to think that these types of stories are not far off from the actual events. I’m thrilled that the authors have provided links to further information about wild mustang rescues and other related information on their website and this review post.
Christa’s Luck was a wonderful, suspenseful read that will be enjoyed by animal lovers in general and horse lovers in particular especially in the teen age category. I would highly recommend it. I gave it 5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
To see my complete review, visit Shelf Full of Books http://kathrynsshelffullofbooks.blogs...
August 25, 2015
The main reason I said yes to reviewing this book is that I have a young niece who is into horses and riding. I thought this book would bring me into her world and help me understand her love for horses. And I think it did just that. I'll be passing along my copy of the book to her - I hope she'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Christa's Luck is about a young girl who adores riding and enjoys watching the wild mustangs run free on the Nevada ranges. She loves seeing them running and their manes flying behind them. She longs to feel that free and riding helps her imagine she flying along beside them, the wind in her hair, the sun on her face and no cares in the world. Christa is on the hunt to see the Lost Herd for herself. It's been rumoured that they don't exist, but she feels deep down that they must be out there somewhere.
As luck would have it, she finds them not once but three times (alone and with family). She's drawn to them in ways she cannot explain and she feels the need to help keep them free. The round ups that have been secretly taking away the mustangs have to stop and Christa is determined to make it ahappen. She is adamant that the Lost Herd stay free and will do anything to see it through.
This story shows how a young girl can have such conviction and courage in the face of doubt and uncertainty. It shows trust that is earned, not taken. It shows that determination and will power can give you strength. And it shows how love and family can help you reach your dreams. I hope that my niece will take away all of those lessons from this book when I show it to her. I hope this book will help her when making decisions and show her that even if you make a poor decision, that you can try again and do better. Never give up.
I'm also impressed that I could pick up a little riding lingo and hope that I can sneak a few words in here and there to show off to my niece. Looking forward to watching her at her next horse show and seeing a little of Christa coming through.
Christa's Luck is about a young girl who adores riding and enjoys watching the wild mustangs run free on the Nevada ranges. She loves seeing them running and their manes flying behind them. She longs to feel that free and riding helps her imagine she flying along beside them, the wind in her hair, the sun on her face and no cares in the world. Christa is on the hunt to see the Lost Herd for herself. It's been rumoured that they don't exist, but she feels deep down that they must be out there somewhere.
As luck would have it, she finds them not once but three times (alone and with family). She's drawn to them in ways she cannot explain and she feels the need to help keep them free. The round ups that have been secretly taking away the mustangs have to stop and Christa is determined to make it ahappen. She is adamant that the Lost Herd stay free and will do anything to see it through.
This story shows how a young girl can have such conviction and courage in the face of doubt and uncertainty. It shows trust that is earned, not taken. It shows that determination and will power can give you strength. And it shows how love and family can help you reach your dreams. I hope that my niece will take away all of those lessons from this book when I show it to her. I hope this book will help her when making decisions and show her that even if you make a poor decision, that you can try again and do better. Never give up.
I'm also impressed that I could pick up a little riding lingo and hope that I can sneak a few words in here and there to show off to my niece. Looking forward to watching her at her next horse show and seeing a little of Christa coming through.
September 5, 2015
I was given this book for an honest review. I am ashamed to say that the only time I saw a real life horse was in Ballarat's Sovereign Hill, home of the ancient gold mines. But it didn't stop me from reading Christa's Luck, and learning about wild Mustangs.
You do not need to be a horse lover to read this, because after this book, you would love these wild things as much as Christa does. For a young adult book, there is not much violent action here, although you would still be exposed to some page gripping scenes when Christa faces adversity and danger.
Before this book, I have never heard of wild Mustangs. Sure I know about wild horses, because the Monarto Zoo here in Adelaide houses Przewalski’s Horse, which apparently cannot be tamed. Wild Mustangs though, are an entirely different story. I had always thought that Mustangs are no longer wild, but domesticated breeds of horses.
Aside from being a character building story, this book is educational as well, as Christa researches the background story on herding horses. She discovers (as do I) many things about her four legged wild friends, intending to keep it that way, she tries to rally her school mates behind her.
The style and tone of the book is rather straightforward, it appeals to the natural imaginative minds of young adults and older children. Making no attempted to exaggerate or twist the facts, this book is an easy but thoughtful read. The characters are well developed with a good sense of self, particularly the younger ones. Adults play their part as supporters or depressors well, each within reason.
I might not know much about horses, but I know that they are incredibly smart and intuitive. Many books I read say that to ride a horse well, you must be one with it, like part of it. In many ways, the authors know what they were saying and describing, down to the heart breaking parts.
There are many things you can discuss with your little reader for Christa's Luck: responsibility, power of people, courage vs impulse. Of course, if you are feeling brave, how even adults can be wrong.
You do not need to be a horse lover to read this, because after this book, you would love these wild things as much as Christa does. For a young adult book, there is not much violent action here, although you would still be exposed to some page gripping scenes when Christa faces adversity and danger.
Before this book, I have never heard of wild Mustangs. Sure I know about wild horses, because the Monarto Zoo here in Adelaide houses Przewalski’s Horse, which apparently cannot be tamed. Wild Mustangs though, are an entirely different story. I had always thought that Mustangs are no longer wild, but domesticated breeds of horses.
Aside from being a character building story, this book is educational as well, as Christa researches the background story on herding horses. She discovers (as do I) many things about her four legged wild friends, intending to keep it that way, she tries to rally her school mates behind her.
The style and tone of the book is rather straightforward, it appeals to the natural imaginative minds of young adults and older children. Making no attempted to exaggerate or twist the facts, this book is an easy but thoughtful read. The characters are well developed with a good sense of self, particularly the younger ones. Adults play their part as supporters or depressors well, each within reason.
I might not know much about horses, but I know that they are incredibly smart and intuitive. Many books I read say that to ride a horse well, you must be one with it, like part of it. In many ways, the authors know what they were saying and describing, down to the heart breaking parts.
There are many things you can discuss with your little reader for Christa's Luck: responsibility, power of people, courage vs impulse. Of course, if you are feeling brave, how even adults can be wrong.
August 20, 2015
The amount of emotion that comes through the writing, the good and bad times, the dangers and celebrations, the friendships and bonds for life formed; all of it comes alive, right off the page. Christa is a passionate young lady, yet real. She's a "pony girl" through and through, but she's human and makes mistakes. Those mistakes might have tilted her fate and the fate of one she loved in the wrong direction (still not completely convinced it was her fault alone) but despite the heart shattering event that followed (and it did shatter hearts, my own included), she never gave up. Sure, she delved down and wallowed a bit in self doubt, pity, and utter leave-me-alone-ness, but there's not a soul that could blame her. I myself left several tears on the page when it all went down. When things got really dark and it looked like all hope was lost, she still never gave up. She was that determined, that dedicated to be the voice for those that wouldn't/couldn't speak. Taking a note from those that came before her (and the wisdom of one smart Grandma), she was the change she wanted to see in the world and that effort on her part, make people stand up, take notice, and follow her example.
A story about more than simply a girl and her horse, but about what being passionate and caring with all our hearts is all about.
**review copy received in exchange for my honest review...full post can be seen on my site**
A story about more than simply a girl and her horse, but about what being passionate and caring with all our hearts is all about.
**review copy received in exchange for my honest review...full post can be seen on my site**
August 28, 2015
Books about horses are a staple in any equestrian’s home so I always get very excited when I am introduced to a new one. I also really enjoy when the story is not in your typical setting and is filled with heart. Enter Christa’s Luck by Jennifer and Michael Grais. This story is based on a real life event that is sure to capture your heart and have you rooting for Christa and the wild horses.
This book follows 13 year old cowgirl Christa Cassidy who lives on a ranch in Nevada and works to save a local herd of wild horses. The inspiration behind this story is a real life horse rescue event – horses being rescued from a flood – that occurred in the Netherlands.
Read the rest of my review at: http://www.velvetrider.com/book-revie...
This book follows 13 year old cowgirl Christa Cassidy who lives on a ranch in Nevada and works to save a local herd of wild horses. The inspiration behind this story is a real life horse rescue event – horses being rescued from a flood – that occurred in the Netherlands.
Read the rest of my review at: http://www.velvetrider.com/book-revie...
December 8, 2015
Clear your calendar and read this book!
This was an amazingly good book. I got absolutely caught up in the world and could not put it down. As my one year old napped, I should have been cleaning and doing other things and instead I spent the two hours with Christa on her gripping adventure. All the characters are so well realized and the world is fully developed and draws you in to the exciting climax. Even when I wasn't reading the book, I felt lost in the world and still felt it lingering even when I finished the book. I highly recommend this book to all readers.
This was an amazingly good book. I got absolutely caught up in the world and could not put it down. As my one year old napped, I should have been cleaning and doing other things and instead I spent the two hours with Christa on her gripping adventure. All the characters are so well realized and the world is fully developed and draws you in to the exciting climax. Even when I wasn't reading the book, I felt lost in the world and still felt it lingering even when I finished the book. I highly recommend this book to all readers.
November 29, 2015
I would recommend this book because it has a very exciting plot and interesting characters. In addition the author includes a lot of detail and dialogue.The main character (Christa) is very shy, studious, and loves horses. For example she always gets straight As and loves her horse, Lucky, more than anything. Through out the book Christa changes from a shy girl, into a girl who is not afraid to stand up for her self and what she believes in.
August 8, 2015
Very good YA novel. See a full review on my blog Monday, August 10!!! www.gspotsylvania.wordpress.com
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October 20, 2017Amazing book . I absolutely loved it . This is one book I couldn't put down . It is a book that will have you turning pages and leave you wanting more . It has now became one of my favorites . I would recommend it to any one who loves horses for sure.
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