Liberty Biscuit: Does a Family Mystery Stand in the Way of Saving Kip's Best Friend?

by Melanie Sue Bowles

Does a family mystery stand in the way of saving Kip’s best friend?   Katherine Pearl Baker—“Kip” for short—is the only child on her family’s rural peach farm. She longs for a pet to ease the loneliness. Unfortunately, her father has an angry opposition to all animals—horses in particular. Why he dislikes them is a confounding mystery.  Hiding in the woods on the Fourth of July, Kip encounters a bedraggled donkey with one eye and a floppy ear. Immediately smitten and compelled to protect him, she feeds him biscuits and takes him home. When it is discovered the donkey fled an abusive owner, Kip’s father finally relents, reluctantly allowing him to stay.  Kip is elated when her grandfather agrees to help her foster the donkey, who she names “Liberty Biscuit,” along with two emaciated horses removed by the local sheriff from the same home, as the cruelty case goes to court. While caring for the animals, Kip’s happiness is overshadowed by a shocking discovery in a trunk in the family farm’s hayloft—a faded photograph of her father as a boy that reveals secrets long kept.  A court order to return the horses, and even worse, Kip’s beloved Liberty Biscuit, to the owner who had starved and beaten them, throws Kip’s world into turmoil. She knows she must find a way to keep them, or she will have betrayed the best friend she has ever had. But saving the animals means risking the complete unraveling of her family as she exposes the long-buried truth about a tragic accident and a hurt like she’s never known before. 

224 pages, Paperback

Published October 18, 2022

Reviews

[Casie Bazay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an early version of this book and I can't wait to see it in print! Such a touching story!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this sweet book—about a rescued one-eyed, broken-eared donkey you’ll never forget—in one sitting. I laughed, I cried a lot, I smiled, and by the time I turned the last page, I knew I loved it. It made me want to hug my sweet donkey Annabelle’s neck, and then message Melanie to thank her for sharing this beautiful story inspired by her experiences at Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary that she and her husband Jim have owned for over 30 years. It’s perfect for anyone who loves horses, donkeys, and a good tale that addresses animal cruelty and racism, but in a gentle way that is suitable for anyone from 9-99. The message that love comes in all forms, shapes, and colors rings loud and true in this wonderful story of a young girl from a mixed family facing some of the challenges of our time.

[Lennon Faris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story of a young girl from a rural peach farm in Georgia with big ideas and a big heart. The voice of Kip is funny and genuine. I like that she's young but she doesn't know it. If she sees a problem, she'll work to fix it (even if it gets her in a bit of trouble). She's got great adults in her life but they are definitely not perfect, and when they are too stubborn or unreasonable, she calls them out on their b.s., somehow in a way that isn't high-handed, just satisfying. I am an animal and nature lover and Kip and I would get along just fine. I've never left out 'gifts' for crows but I'll have to try that next time I'm at my grandma's farm...I also enjoyed reading Kip's interpretation of my poem (which was sort of an inception moment for me to see it in a story), as well as to read Kip's (brief) conversation of faith with her mom. It gave me a new perspective on something, which is a jewel I love to find in books. I've read (and own) Melanie's other (non-fiction) books, but I am truly a fiction reader so...hopefully you'll write more, Melanie ;)

[Jackie Barnett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liberty Biscuit is one of those stories that quietly sneaks up on you. This is a great read for literally any age. It's a shorter, quick read with big feelings.

This was a book I don’t think I would have picked up on my own, but I’m genuinely glad I read it. It was chosen by my book club, and knowing the author is local to our area made it a little more fun.

Melanie Sue Bowles delivers a heartfelt story that balances emotion and resilience. The writing feels warm and intentional, pulling you into the characters’ lives in a way that feels genuine.

What stood out most to me was the emotional depth, especially for a short book. This book isn’t loud or flashy, but it’s powerful in its honesty.

I especially appreciated how the story touches on difficult topics like grief, loss, depression, racism, forgiveness, and complicated family dynamics, but in a way that's appropriate for every age.

The characters feel real, flawed, and relatable, and the story gives you time to truly connect with their journeys.

Overall, this is a solid 4-star read for me. If you enjoy stories that focus on personal growth, quiet strength, and meaningful relationships, Liberty Biscuit is absolutely worth picking up, reminding you of the beauty found in small moments and the resilience of the human spirit.

[Carol Baldwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kip, the protagonist of Liberty Biscuit, lives on a farm in Georgia. Despite the rural setting that seems ideal for animals, her father strictly forbids her from having a horse or any pet. Kip does not understand his unwavering refusal, yet she respects his decision—at least for a while. This changes when she encounters a white, scrawny, one-eyed donkey who becomes attached to her. After her father relents, Kip takes care of two other abused horses also.

During the transition from thirteen to fourteen, Kip experiences significant personal growth. She makes a difficult decision and is forced to confront her own temper and impulsiveness. Throughout this period, Kip uncovers a family secret that has deeply affected her father and also begins to reflect on what it means to be biracial. These experiences lead Kip to new insights about herself, forgiveness, and the realization that her father is only human—not the superhero she once believed him to be.

Ultimately, Kip's quick thinking helps solve several problems for both her family and her horses. This resolution allows her to emerge as the heroine of her story, a role that the author crafts skillfully and convincingly.

[Jan Crossen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story filled with heartwarming characters, family dynamics, humor, wisdom, and mystery. This book is written for ages 9-12, but I’m several decades older than that, and I truly enjoyed every page. The author, Melanie Sue Bowles, knows her way around horses. For many years, she and her husband have run the Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary and have saved over 300 unwanted, abused, and neglected horses. Her expertise in working with these traumatized victims shows in her writing. Through the horse-loving characters in her book, Melanie, shares valuable lessons on how to relate to horses. I’d say that these tips would be helpful in gaining the trust of other animals as well, including humans! Do yourself a favor and buy this read. Not only will it enrich your life, but your payment will go to support this life-saving work. Then purchase the other books that she has written about the horses, and dogs, who have lived at her sanctuary. Well done, Melanie, I’m truly inspired!

[Kent Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many years ago, I fell in love with the Proud Spirit series of books written by Melanie Sue Bowles. Then Liberty Biscuit came along, a tale of love, compassion, loss, and downright heartbreak woven into the story of Katherine, aka, Kip. Her determination and spunk readily take you along on her journey. The characters are each unique, spilling from the pages. It is easy to get to know them and you can feel their personalities. There are always life lessons to be learned, and Liberty Biscuit delivers. A must read for all ages.

[Barbara Conrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you think you are too old for this book, you’re not. If you love animals and despise animal cruelty, this is the book to read.

Told by Kip, a delightful child with a heart of gold, a fierce determination, and a heartbreaking loneliness that is inexplicably filled by a donkey that needs her as much as she .needs him, Liberty Biscuit will make you laugh out loud and will leave you with tears running down your cheeks—the very best kind of book.

[Merrill C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melanie Sue Bowles’ Liberty Biscuit is an emotional triumph—an unforgettable tale of a brave girl, a battered donkey, and the healing power of truth, love, and second chances. With Kip’s fierce heart and Liberty Biscuit’s floppy-eared resilience, the story blends family mystery, animal rescue, and moral courage into a narrative that’s as tender as it is electrifying. It’s hard to put down—and I’m already diving into the sequel, Little Pearl.

[E.M. Goldsmith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this for a friend’s daughter and failed to get it delivered for Christmas. I read it and it’s wonderful. Such a heart tugging tale involving a young girl and a neglected donkey. Speaks to the healing and importance of the relationship of animals and the people that care for them. This is truly lovely.

[Joan Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this is YA book this retired Mawmaw loved this story. I can't wait to read more. The author's acknowledge section in the book was an interesting read too. I admire her and her husband starting Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary. I didn't know that the Sanctuary was in the county I live in. I discovered this book after reading our public library had hosted the author for a talk and book signing.

[Janene Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing story! I loved everything about this book and the style of writing sucked me right in. I really didn't want to put it down! Thank you, Melanie, for sharing your extraordinary talent ❤

[Jill Hovis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! This book was so good! It was a touching story that had me laughing, rooting for Kip (the “old soul” protagonist) and Liberty Biscuit (her sweet, brave donkey), and crying at such a poignant and surprising conclusion. What an absolutely wonderful story!

[Meda Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

review of “Liberty Biscuit”

A peaceful engaging read about a young girl who learns much about life that her parents have been protecting her from. She’s wise beyond her years and helps bring her family closer to one another.

[Sharon Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming, delightful story about family secrets, perseverance, and the power of love.

[Renea Winchester · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delight ! This beautiful novel should be required reading in school. It's a breath of fresh air, a feel-good story that has more than one surprise for the reader. Well done !

[Allison Mazzola · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic story! Super sweet with life lessons along the way, And who doesn’t love a donkey!

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5