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Shane's Mane
Orla loves horses. She helps Grandpa feed his horses every day. But Orla worries that she will never learn to ride a horse, or do anything else that matters -- because she can't even read a book! In the end, it is Shane, a gray horse with a long mane, who has the answer Orla is looking for. Beautifully illustrated with more than 70 color photographs, Shane's Mane is a timeless story of the adventure of life from an author with a firsthand knowledge of life on a small horse farm.
64 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
1 person want to read
About the author
Nicole Drumheller Gargus
4 books14 followersNicole Marie grew up on a small horse farm in Pennsylvania and at an early age found that animals were one of her favorite subjects to write about. She also writes about travel, veterans, and the dichotomy of the challenges and inspirations of everyday life. Nicole has an MFA in Creative Writing from Rosemont College and a BA in History from Eastern University, with a minor in the history of the Vietnam War. She has written creative non-fiction, children’s literature, and articles.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 11, 2011
"Shane's Mane" is a delightful tale about a spunky girl named Orla who lives on a farm with her grandfather and his horses. Orla fears that learning to read is too daunting a task for her to accomplish but with the help of her persistent grandfather and the inspiration of the white stallion, Shane, she finds herself learning to read and learning to ride with unbridled enthusiasm. Before she knows it, Shane whisks her off, bareback, on a joyride she won't soon forget. Just as reading is a step by step process, Orla learns that care of a horse is much the same.
This tale is a feast for the senses as the rich descriptions coupled with sumptuous pictures allow readers young and old to experience a beautiful spring day atop a strong white horse. The scenery is breathtaking and the young Orla with her infectious smile is adorable. Shane himself is impressive but also tender and encouraging as he takes great care of Orla during their secret ride.
"Shane went clip-clop-clip-clop across the wooden bridge. Orla could hear the water babbling in the brook below. They came to the edge of the forest. Orla could see bright blue sky through the trees." (Gargus 48)
Shane's Mane is perfect for the emergent elementary school reader. There are many sight words within the text. The author has cleverly inserted a few vocabulary words along with their definitions to help children expand their lexicon especially as it relates to horses. This book is perfect to assist children who, like Orla, are having a difficult time finding the motivation learning how to read. The cover, pictures and large print make this story extremely inviting for any child wanting to read about the subject of horses. This is also a wonderful book for parents and children read and re-read to one another. My only caution for parents would be this: Be prepared to take your child horseback riding at least once after the conclusion of this book!!!
The author, Nicole Drumheller Gargus, has already found a strong, clear voice in her very first publication and her passion for horses clearly shines through the pages. She takes the reader on the gentle journey on Shane's back and deposits them back home with ease. Mrs. Gargus will seriously need to consider writing a follow up to this story as it is almost certain children will be asking their parents what adventure Orla and Shane will experience next.
Excellent story, pictures, mood and characters. 4.5 out of a possible 5 stars.
This tale is a feast for the senses as the rich descriptions coupled with sumptuous pictures allow readers young and old to experience a beautiful spring day atop a strong white horse. The scenery is breathtaking and the young Orla with her infectious smile is adorable. Shane himself is impressive but also tender and encouraging as he takes great care of Orla during their secret ride.
"Shane went clip-clop-clip-clop across the wooden bridge. Orla could hear the water babbling in the brook below. They came to the edge of the forest. Orla could see bright blue sky through the trees." (Gargus 48)
Shane's Mane is perfect for the emergent elementary school reader. There are many sight words within the text. The author has cleverly inserted a few vocabulary words along with their definitions to help children expand their lexicon especially as it relates to horses. This book is perfect to assist children who, like Orla, are having a difficult time finding the motivation learning how to read. The cover, pictures and large print make this story extremely inviting for any child wanting to read about the subject of horses. This is also a wonderful book for parents and children read and re-read to one another. My only caution for parents would be this: Be prepared to take your child horseback riding at least once after the conclusion of this book!!!
The author, Nicole Drumheller Gargus, has already found a strong, clear voice in her very first publication and her passion for horses clearly shines through the pages. She takes the reader on the gentle journey on Shane's back and deposits them back home with ease. Mrs. Gargus will seriously need to consider writing a follow up to this story as it is almost certain children will be asking their parents what adventure Orla and Shane will experience next.
Excellent story, pictures, mood and characters. 4.5 out of a possible 5 stars.
December 19, 2022
What an extraordinary children’s story! I wish I could gift this book to every child that finds it hard to learn to read. I wish I could gift this book to every child that loves horses. I wish I could gift this book to every elementary school library. It is a treasure to view and read from cover to cover.
The photographs capture all the delights of growing up on a horse farm as the author did in her childhood. Photos of the beauty of the farm from interior to exterior, of the horses, the trees, and the flowers complement the writing on each page.
With descriptive writing, we can feel the warmth of the spring breezes, imagine the smells of the fragrant flowers, visualize the silver speckles of Shane’s coat, feel the tinkle of splashing water on bare feet, and more.
The dialogue between Orla and her grandfather is exemplary. As Orla shares her frustration of not being able to read she also confides a comment made to her that is haunting her thoughts. In turn, the grandfather listens and absorbs the underlying fear that is stopping Orla’s progress. The grandfather quietly imparts his wisdom nurturing and offering instruction and reminders with kindness and patience. Through the difference in instruction from a grandfather the reader has the joy of watching Orla gain confidence. Orla’s confidence leads to her independence and a most unexpected experience with a horse named Shane.
It is most thrilling for a children’s librarian (even in retirement) to discover a story for a child to treasure. For the story to be matched by exquisite photographs is extra heart-warming as sometimes children wonder if the illustrations are simply imagined and instantly as the story is read the pictures offer realism and authenticity. Kudos to the author for the magical way the story is told offering sensitivity and instruction to children and a subtle lesson to adults too.
The photographs capture all the delights of growing up on a horse farm as the author did in her childhood. Photos of the beauty of the farm from interior to exterior, of the horses, the trees, and the flowers complement the writing on each page.
With descriptive writing, we can feel the warmth of the spring breezes, imagine the smells of the fragrant flowers, visualize the silver speckles of Shane’s coat, feel the tinkle of splashing water on bare feet, and more.
The dialogue between Orla and her grandfather is exemplary. As Orla shares her frustration of not being able to read she also confides a comment made to her that is haunting her thoughts. In turn, the grandfather listens and absorbs the underlying fear that is stopping Orla’s progress. The grandfather quietly imparts his wisdom nurturing and offering instruction and reminders with kindness and patience. Through the difference in instruction from a grandfather the reader has the joy of watching Orla gain confidence. Orla’s confidence leads to her independence and a most unexpected experience with a horse named Shane.
It is most thrilling for a children’s librarian (even in retirement) to discover a story for a child to treasure. For the story to be matched by exquisite photographs is extra heart-warming as sometimes children wonder if the illustrations are simply imagined and instantly as the story is read the pictures offer realism and authenticity. Kudos to the author for the magical way the story is told offering sensitivity and instruction to children and a subtle lesson to adults too.
January 20, 2010
As young Orla follows her grandfather, helping to feed and brush the horses, she is troubled by the fact that she cannot read—or do anything else for that matter! If she can’t even read a small book, Orla wonders how she will ever be able to ride such a massive horse. When she forms an unlikely bond with the most wild and free-spirited horse, Shane, Orla discovers that a dose of confidence is all she needs to overcome the hurdles in her world.
Author Nicole Drumheller Gargus inspires readers young and old with her words of encouragement and childhood dreams. Growing up on a horse farm herself, the author combines her personal knowledge with a dream-like quality that is bound to delight readers— making Shane’s Mane a sure hit as the author’s debut children’s book.
Easy to read and full of bright engaging photographs, this book is sure to charm young girls who yearn to ride horses--or to conquer any other challenge in their lives! Bringing forth a world where boundaries don't exist, Shane's Mane inspires readers to run freely and to pursue their dreams, no matter how big! Reading Jungle awards this book with applause, honoring Orla and her ride to achievement--portraying a journey we all can relate to. Visit www.readingjungle.com for more reviews.
Author Nicole Drumheller Gargus inspires readers young and old with her words of encouragement and childhood dreams. Growing up on a horse farm herself, the author combines her personal knowledge with a dream-like quality that is bound to delight readers— making Shane’s Mane a sure hit as the author’s debut children’s book.
Easy to read and full of bright engaging photographs, this book is sure to charm young girls who yearn to ride horses--or to conquer any other challenge in their lives! Bringing forth a world where boundaries don't exist, Shane's Mane inspires readers to run freely and to pursue their dreams, no matter how big! Reading Jungle awards this book with applause, honoring Orla and her ride to achievement--portraying a journey we all can relate to. Visit www.readingjungle.com for more reviews.
July 11, 2011
Shane's Mane immediately became my special book for many reasons. One of them is the fact that Orla is a character that I can identify with. Self-esteem determines absolutely everything in our lives: the way we act, see the world, work, make friends, set goals, find our life-partner, etc. And building self-worth starts from the moment we take our first breath so there is no time to waste. I congratulate Nicole Drumheller Gargus on her gift of writing -- she was able in simple words to point at this very important aspect of being a human. I also appreciate that Gargus choose a grandfather to represent unconditional love, wisdom and courage -- as there is no true and healthy self-confidence without those three values. The strenght of this book lies in its universal message. There are thousands of ways of being in this world and every individual has a task to find his/her own way -- like Orla did. Great book -- a beautifully illustrated story for little and big people.
-- Anna Dudek
Poland
-- Anna Dudek
Poland
February 25, 2013
"Shane's Mane" - a very good story for children and their parents.
The story of a girl and her horse teaches us patience, courage, tenacity, the way to yourself, a love of animals and the victory over fears.
I highly recommend this story for all children who are afraid to be different from everyone. The main character - girl named Orla can not read.
But her friendship with a horse named Shane, she learned to be brave and able to overcome all difficulties.
In addition, they became best friends with Shane.
This is a beautiful story and I thank Nicole for this amazing book.
In addition it should be specially noted design and illustration.
These are real photos, and it is for this reason this story seems very much alive, real.
And I wanted to say that English is not my mother, but this book is written so easy and fun that even my limited knowledge of English was sufficient to read and understand the story.
So I think that this book to children will be useful for to learn English.
My 8 year old niece has already started to read "Shane's Mane" it to improve their English *)
The story of a girl and her horse teaches us patience, courage, tenacity, the way to yourself, a love of animals and the victory over fears.
I highly recommend this story for all children who are afraid to be different from everyone. The main character - girl named Orla can not read.
But her friendship with a horse named Shane, she learned to be brave and able to overcome all difficulties.
In addition, they became best friends with Shane.
This is a beautiful story and I thank Nicole for this amazing book.
In addition it should be specially noted design and illustration.
These are real photos, and it is for this reason this story seems very much alive, real.
And I wanted to say that English is not my mother, but this book is written so easy and fun that even my limited knowledge of English was sufficient to read and understand the story.
So I think that this book to children will be useful for to learn English.
My 8 year old niece has already started to read "Shane's Mane" it to improve their English *)
August 4, 2011
5 out of 5 stars: Great, refreshing story, beautifully designed book, evocative photos
By
Kristina O'Donnelly
This review is from: Shane's Mane (Hardcover)
Shane's Mane is a beautiful book, just beautiful, a joy to read (I ended up reading it twice), a pleasure to own. I loved the layout, the photography, the way the evocative photos visually complemented the story, the interaction between Orla and her Grandpa, and of course, loved its finale. Shane's Mane truly made me feel warm and fuzzy inside! A highly recommended, uplifting read and a keepsake of a book to treasure. I bought it three times to give it away as gifts, and each time the recipient's eyes lit up! Nicole Drumheller Gargus has done an outstanding job. I would love to read a second installment indeed! -- Kristina O'Donnelly, Author and Journalist
By
Kristina O'Donnelly
This review is from: Shane's Mane (Hardcover)
Shane's Mane is a beautiful book, just beautiful, a joy to read (I ended up reading it twice), a pleasure to own. I loved the layout, the photography, the way the evocative photos visually complemented the story, the interaction between Orla and her Grandpa, and of course, loved its finale. Shane's Mane truly made me feel warm and fuzzy inside! A highly recommended, uplifting read and a keepsake of a book to treasure. I bought it three times to give it away as gifts, and each time the recipient's eyes lit up! Nicole Drumheller Gargus has done an outstanding job. I would love to read a second installment indeed! -- Kristina O'Donnelly, Author and Journalist
March 11, 2011
It is a beautiful and touching story about 2 beings who are hurting for their own reasons, and the freedom and joy they find together that ultimately serves to heal their hurt. This story would be perfect for a girl who is having trouble with self-confidence in school, as it beautifully illustrates Orla's process of struggling with reading and the dents that makes in her self-esteem, and how Shane, the horse, helps to heal that. It is compassionately written in simple sentences that are nonetheless full of imagery, so as not to frustrate the student who might still be struggling to read. However, I would definitely also recommend it to others, young or old, urban or rural, horse-lover or not - the theme of self-confidence is universal.
December 9, 2011
A simple yet universal story of growing up and finding the bravery to overcome our fears, Nicole Drumheller Gargus has crafted a fantastic children's book for her debut. The story progresses as a perfect pace for parents (or kids themselves) to read as they tuck in their children at night or quiet them down during the day. The connection between Shane and Orla is touching, as is her relationship with her Grandpa. It's a very inspirational tale complemented with some of the best photography I've seen in the genre (seriously, some of the shots are simply breathtaking and all of them are placed exactly where they should be to accompany the text). Nicole's passion for horses saturates the story, and she has a promising literary future ahead of her. I can't wait to see what she does next!
March 8, 2011
Learning to read is more of a problem than we care to talk about here in the States. It is especially true as kids get older and are ashamed to admit that they still can't read. Shane's Mane goes a long way toward trying to reverse this situation, without being obvious and without preaching. It is a enjoyable read with wonderful photographs from start to finish and Nicole has done a wonderful job of weaving storytelling with objective. This is a must read for kids, teachers and parents. I have been producing videos for reading teachers for 30 years and this is one of the best resources I have come across in all that time. Bill Miller
December 27, 2011
Shane's Mane is a delightful book!! My daughter and I have read it many times. It not only is a great story but a valuable life lessons as well. I highly recommend this book!!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews