What do you think?
Rate this book
Charlie Bass #1
Het renpaard dat niet wilde racen
'Het grappigste paardenboek van het jaar!
Charlie en haar familie wonen op een koeienboerderij, maar
dreigen te moeten verhuizen. Charlie weet dé oplossing voor
de financiële zorgen: ze moeten een racepaard kopen en de
plaatselijke derby winnen!
Nobele Krijger is supersterk, fit en gezond. Er is alleen één
probleempje… hij wil niet rennen. Of eigenlijk verzet hij nog geen
stap zonder zijn beste vriend Prins (een kleine pony die vooral
veel scheten laat). Charlie weet zeker dat Nobele Krijger een echte
racekampioen is. Maar hoe kan ze dat bewijzen? De grote derby
komt snel dichterbij en alleen door die te winnen kan de boerderij
van haar familie gered worden…
Weet Charlie haar chaotische familie te veranderen in een top
trainingsteam? Zal haar paard zijn zenuwen onder controle
krijgen? Je leest het in het hilarische kinderboekendebuut van
Clare Balding!
Charlie en haar familie wonen op een koeienboerderij, maar
dreigen te moeten verhuizen. Charlie weet dé oplossing voor
de financiële zorgen: ze moeten een racepaard kopen en de
plaatselijke derby winnen!
Nobele Krijger is supersterk, fit en gezond. Er is alleen één
probleempje… hij wil niet rennen. Of eigenlijk verzet hij nog geen
stap zonder zijn beste vriend Prins (een kleine pony die vooral
veel scheten laat). Charlie weet zeker dat Nobele Krijger een echte
racekampioen is. Maar hoe kan ze dat bewijzen? De grote derby
komt snel dichterbij en alleen door die te winnen kan de boerderij
van haar familie gered worden…
Weet Charlie haar chaotische familie te veranderen in een top
trainingsteam? Zal haar paard zijn zenuwen onder controle
krijgen? Je leest het in het hilarische kinderboekendebuut van
Clare Balding!
240 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2016
32 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 27, 2017
This was a feel-good, predictable, but fun success story. 10 year old Charlie Bass, aka Thunder Thighs (at least to her brothers), saves the farm by buying a racehorse that won't run for anyone else & making it into a champion. It reminded me a lot of The Mad Scientists' Club, a favorite when I was about Charlie's age. Both books feature bright children who hit the books, believed in their goals, tried hard, & won! Great stuff.
A typical pony is a main character. He's an escape artist, ready to savage people who offend him (although he never does), & is always hungry. Better yet, he farts & pees at the least appropriate times. He almost splashed Queen Liz, who took it in stride of course, but that's a real life issue with animals, equines in particular. There were a lot of those real-life moments. While Balding took a lot of liberties with reality, she knows horses well & did a great job of dropping bits into an otherwise fanciful story.
I was surprised that the term 'herd bound' was never used. I wonder if that's an American expression or if there was some other reason she avoided using it. We always did with a pair of POA mares who were as bad. Sorroya tore up the trailer & almost killed herself at a show once. After that, Marg had to make sure to keep them in sight during shows, although Briar wasn't as bad.
I've only read one other book by Balding, her autobiography My Animals and Other Family which I gave a 4 star review to here. We have little in common, yet I find her a kindred spirit. I'll have to read more of her books. She has a lot more than I'd realized.
Highly recommended. Well narrated.
A typical pony is a main character. He's an escape artist, ready to savage people who offend him (although he never does), & is always hungry. Better yet, he farts & pees at the least appropriate times. He almost splashed Queen Liz, who took it in stride of course, but that's a real life issue with animals, equines in particular. There were a lot of those real-life moments. While Balding took a lot of liberties with reality, she knows horses well & did a great job of dropping bits into an otherwise fanciful story.
I was surprised that the term 'herd bound' was never used. I wonder if that's an American expression or if there was some other reason she avoided using it. We always did with a pair of POA mares who were as bad. Sorroya tore up the trailer & almost killed herself at a show once. After that, Marg had to make sure to keep them in sight during shows, although Briar wasn't as bad.
I've only read one other book by Balding, her autobiography My Animals and Other Family which I gave a 4 star review to here. We have little in common, yet I find her a kindred spirit. I'll have to read more of her books. She has a lot more than I'd realized.
Highly recommended. Well narrated.
March 10, 2019
A young lady who worries about the English family farm being taken by the bank, manages to acquire a Thoroughbred colt at auction (cheap as he doesn't like to race) and decides to train him up for racing. Well, naturally she can't set her sights any lower than the top. The costs escalate and the horse refuses to run anywhere without his best pal the elderly pony.
While horse lovers will have a good chuckle, the lesson can really be that the family has to pull together; even the grumpy brother gets involved in researching how best to train a racehorse. If they can just manage to succeed, the prize money will resolve their financial problems. Friends are more helpful than expected and the drama will hold you to the end.
This is an unbiased review.
While horse lovers will have a good chuckle, the lesson can really be that the family has to pull together; even the grumpy brother gets involved in researching how best to train a racehorse. If they can just manage to succeed, the prize money will resolve their financial problems. Friends are more helpful than expected and the drama will hold you to the end.
This is an unbiased review.
October 1, 2016
Funny, heart-warming and feminist- what a brilliant children's book! Perfect for any child, regardless of gender, but I particularly recommend it for girls (Charlie is a wonderful role model) and animal lovers. You don't have to be a child to read it, either- Clare Balding is as hilarious as you would expect. I particularly loved the cows named after celebrities and characters.
Charlie Bass is a lovely, clever, resourceful character that never gives up and looks out for her family. She never lets things get her down for too long. The book is filled with technical horse knowledge, but it never becomes tiresome or feels like a how-to guide. There's a strong feminist theme running throughout- I loved how "thunder thighs" were turned into "powerful legs" that propelled all sorts of women to success. The book promotes healthy body image, healthy friendships, sticking up for others, and using your mind to problem solve. There's also a clear and often-repeated message of "don't judge a book by it's cover"- for example, just because someone doesn't have a lot of money, it doesn't mean you're better than them. Conversely, some of the wealthiest characters are the most charitable on several occasions. The characters who did kind things were rewarded for them.
Clare Balding is a master at ratcheting up the emotional stakes. It's a quick read, with lovely illustrations by Tony Ross. He gives the horses such character! In this edition (first edition 2016, published by Puffin), there is also a section at the back with extras- author interview, pony care tips etc.
You can't help but root for the Bass family- I cried at the ending! I can't remember the last book that made me do that. Let's hope there's plenty more Charlie Bass adventures to come.
Charlie Bass is a lovely, clever, resourceful character that never gives up and looks out for her family. She never lets things get her down for too long. The book is filled with technical horse knowledge, but it never becomes tiresome or feels like a how-to guide. There's a strong feminist theme running throughout- I loved how "thunder thighs" were turned into "powerful legs" that propelled all sorts of women to success. The book promotes healthy body image, healthy friendships, sticking up for others, and using your mind to problem solve. There's also a clear and often-repeated message of "don't judge a book by it's cover"- for example, just because someone doesn't have a lot of money, it doesn't mean you're better than them. Conversely, some of the wealthiest characters are the most charitable on several occasions. The characters who did kind things were rewarded for them.
Clare Balding is a master at ratcheting up the emotional stakes. It's a quick read, with lovely illustrations by Tony Ross. He gives the horses such character! In this edition (first edition 2016, published by Puffin), there is also a section at the back with extras- author interview, pony care tips etc.
You can't help but root for the Bass family- I cried at the ending! I can't remember the last book that made me do that. Let's hope there's plenty more Charlie Bass adventures to come.
January 27, 2018
Clare Balding is one of my favourite television personalities. I listened to the audio book of her book My Animals and Other Family in 2017, which was delightful, as is this, her first children’s book. Clare has a real knack for telling a story and telling it well. I recognised quite a few elements from her own experiences growing up.
This is the story of a 10-year-old girl called Charlie Bass, who ends up buying a tricky racehorse, fully believing he will win the Derby at Epsom, the biggest race in the British racing calendar. However, Noble Warrior, the racehorse, does not go anywhere without his pony buddy Percy. Will she be able to make her dreams come true and save the family farm in the process?
I seem to remember from Clare’s autobiography she mentioned one of the horses her father trained that would not go anywhere without another horse. Was it Lochsong?
The characters in this book are wonderfully written, from Charlie to her brothers and her parents and Joe the jockey. I loved how all the cows had celebrity names (Jane Austen, Madonna, Princess Anne, Nancy Drew, Taylor Swift, etc).
This book is perfect for any girl or boy that loves horses. It is such a charming feel-good story. Had I been Charlie’s age I would have absolutely adored it and I am sure my daughter will too in a few years’ time. I also really enjoyed the illustrations by Tony Ross, which really add something.
I will be reading the follow-up The Racehorse Who Disappeared pretty soon I think.
This is the story of a 10-year-old girl called Charlie Bass, who ends up buying a tricky racehorse, fully believing he will win the Derby at Epsom, the biggest race in the British racing calendar. However, Noble Warrior, the racehorse, does not go anywhere without his pony buddy Percy. Will she be able to make her dreams come true and save the family farm in the process?
I seem to remember from Clare’s autobiography she mentioned one of the horses her father trained that would not go anywhere without another horse. Was it Lochsong?
The characters in this book are wonderfully written, from Charlie to her brothers and her parents and Joe the jockey. I loved how all the cows had celebrity names (Jane Austen, Madonna, Princess Anne, Nancy Drew, Taylor Swift, etc).
This book is perfect for any girl or boy that loves horses. It is such a charming feel-good story. Had I been Charlie’s age I would have absolutely adored it and I am sure my daughter will too in a few years’ time. I also really enjoyed the illustrations by Tony Ross, which really add something.
I will be reading the follow-up The Racehorse Who Disappeared pretty soon I think.
January 6, 2025
This a lovely book for any horse mad child, whilst the plot is predictable it is wholesome and lovely, entertaining read.
November 24, 2016
Really enjoyed reading this heart warming story to my 8 year old daughter. Charlie, a ten year old girl is a wonderfully inspiring main character. Add in some fart humour - not that that's a big part of the book - and it's a winner for me and my daughter. Looking forward to the next book, Clare.
September 26, 2025
This is a great read that’s super-funny and totally relatable! Ten-year-old Charlie Bass is obsessed with ponies, but isn’t allowed one of her own. She lives on a dairy farm with her father, mother and two troublesome brothers Harry and Larry, and has only ever ridden a cow! One day, her father announces that they’re low on funds, and Charlie comes up with a crazy money making scheme to buy a racehorse! By accident, Charlie ends up with two gorgeous ponies from the auction, Noble Warrior and his little buddy, Percy. Charlie gets to work training Noble Warrior for the famous Derby race where the price money is £1m! There’s just one catch though…Noble Warrior won’t go anywhere without little Percy! Will Charlie be able to get Noble Warrior race ready in time and save their beloved farm?
This is a fab book that’s got lots of awesome characters and is, of course, packed full of ponies! It’s sure to make you laugh, and Clare Balding’s somewhat far-fetched plot will keep you guessing all the way through!
This is a fab book that’s got lots of awesome characters and is, of course, packed full of ponies! It’s sure to make you laugh, and Clare Balding’s somewhat far-fetched plot will keep you guessing all the way through!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2020
In this book we meet aspiring horse rider Charlie who lives on a farm with her family who are struggling for money to keep it up for much longer as things need replacing or fixing especially.
Her best friend Polly loves to ride and opposite to Charlie's family they have the money too, so when Charlie accidentally causes her family to buy a horse and pony at auction they must try their best to make their investment worthwhile else they can say goodbye to their lives as they know it.
Charlie gets bullied about her thunder thighs and state of her clothes a lot by her brother's but Clare makes this a positive showing how it benefits riders to be more well built and how it aids riding and controlling a horse. It was a thrilling read and Charlie was a fabulous character full of courage when others doubted her.
Her best friend Polly loves to ride and opposite to Charlie's family they have the money too, so when Charlie accidentally causes her family to buy a horse and pony at auction they must try their best to make their investment worthwhile else they can say goodbye to their lives as they know it.
Charlie gets bullied about her thunder thighs and state of her clothes a lot by her brother's but Clare makes this a positive showing how it benefits riders to be more well built and how it aids riding and controlling a horse. It was a thrilling read and Charlie was a fabulous character full of courage when others doubted her.
August 16, 2018
Clare Balding writes an amusing and informative novel about a girl who buys and trains a reluctant race horse who will only run when his pal, a rather fat pony is close by.
The strong points are the wealth of information on owning and training a racehorse inserted into the story. The downside is the story is rather predictable even for a middle grade novel and doesn’t quite make enough of the crisis moments essential in a good story.
I am sure many young people will enjoy this book especially if they are horse lovers but even non horsey people will find it an entertaining read.
The strong points are the wealth of information on owning and training a racehorse inserted into the story. The downside is the story is rather predictable even for a middle grade novel and doesn’t quite make enough of the crisis moments essential in a good story.
I am sure many young people will enjoy this book especially if they are horse lovers but even non horsey people will find it an entertaining read.
January 17, 2018
A perfect warm and fuzzy book to chase away the January blues.
Charlie’s determination and ambition shine through like a beacon to any girl who has ever doubted herself or been poked fun at for her ‘thunder-thighs’
A great mix of horse racing knowledge and enthusiasm mixed with an important message about never failing to dream. What an endearing read!
Charlie’s determination and ambition shine through like a beacon to any girl who has ever doubted herself or been poked fun at for her ‘thunder-thighs’
A great mix of horse racing knowledge and enthusiasm mixed with an important message about never failing to dream. What an endearing read!
October 23, 2020
Miss 6 thought it was okay but seemed to enjoy the sequel more.
Miss 6 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
Miss 6 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
August 21, 2017
Charlie Bass is a delight together with the rest of her family, and the names they have given the farm animals had me laughing out loud. A great story which had me on the edge of my seat a few times. Highly recommended
February 3, 2021
A great story about this 10 yr old girl called Charlie who loves horses. Her horse is inclined to gallop only when his other pony friend is around. Read the book to find out how Charlie gets around this issue.
June 4, 2021
I loved that the hero and main character of the book is a strong-willed character. She accidentally buys horses and has to train them to win a race or her family will have to move. I disliked the bullying in the book, but all works out in the end as is predicted.
July 1, 2017
Great Book for avid horse lovers of all ages !
July 4, 2017
Lovely story - read with my 4 & 7 year olds. Nice to have a main female character who is determined & strong.
December 7, 2017
My pupils recommended this book to me and they weren't mistaken. If you like Jacqueline Wilson books you will love this one.
June 18, 2018
Its so funny to read
March 27, 2018
What a beautiful book we loved the story of Charlie and Noddy, my daughter couldn’t wait for more chapters every evening.
August 15, 2018
This book is full of adventure and excitement!
November 14, 2018
Enjoyable book. Nice to see a strong female as the main character. It also has a nice focus on family!
June 2, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book it has a lot of twist and turns.
As well as being fun...
As well as being fun...
July 27, 2020
This was an adorable read-aloud. Predictable but very feel-good and sweet. My 6 year old enjoyed it the most of them all!
September 12, 2021
Amazing book for equestrians
March 29, 2022
Letto quando ero piccola ahahahha
April 7, 2022
Es un libro fácil de traducir al español y además una bonita historia con buenos valores para niños desde 7 años.
February 14, 2023
this was a good book that was fast paced and easy to read. I read this in only a few sittings.
December 20, 2023
The first book that I read and really made me fall in love with reading. I read it so quickly loved it!!
January 19, 2025
Książka o koniach bardzo polecam. Te książkę
bardzo fajna bardzo mi się podobała🐎🐄🥰🥰
bardzo fajna bardzo mi się podobała🐎🐄🥰🥰
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews