Some books are scary and raise your anxiety and fears.
Other books, and there aren’t a lot of them, raise your spirits. The YA Born That Way Series does just that. With the arrival of Rides That Way in the fall of 2017, the series becomes a much loved and upbeat four-volume set.
Written by Comox Valley author Susan Ketchen and published by Oolichan Books, the first three volumes received widespread positive reviews, again features Sylvia, a 14-year old girl who hankered for a pony from the minute she was born.
Sylvia has had some unusual obstacles to overcome, including off-the-wall parents and the genetic condition Turner Syndrome, which limits her growth and development.
In this fourth book, Sylvia finally has the right horse and is fulfilling her dream of riding cross-country, when she’s penalized for dangerous riding. She can’t resist galloping, and finishes ahead of the time allowed.
With her equestrian plans reined in, Sylvia realizes she’s been ignoring some important personal decisions.
Ketchen lives on a hobby farm in Courtenay, with chickens, cats and a horse or two. Her pony Lollipop is a featured actor in the book trailer for Born That Way, which you can see on her website susanketchen.ca. Books are appropriate for ages 12 and up.
The books are available online and through local bookstores and libraries. The author will be signing books at Laughing Oyster Bookshop on September 30 (from 1 to 3 p.m.). Please stop by and say hi.