Friends Like These (Horse Country 2)

Scholastic (June, 2022)

Trouble in Paradise? In this second installment of Horse Country, critically acclaimed author Yamile Saied Méndez welcomes readers back to the ranch.

Carolina’s hope of opening up Paradise Ranch to everyone is coming true: the Unbridled Dreams program is ready to welcome its first sponsored student!

Gisella Bassi seems like the perfect fit — on paper, that is. When she arrives at Paradise Ranch, she’s not as excited as everyone expects. She might even be… scared of the horses? But if their first student isn’t a success, there’s no way the program will continue. Can Caro and her new friend, Chelsie, agree on how to rope Gisella in?

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Editorial Reviews

"The book's descriptions of ranch life are immersive and realistic. The thoughtful protagonist, who brings heartfelt passion and dedication to every aspect of caring for horses -- even the messiest parts -- will especially appeal to young animal lovers... An enjoyable read about horses, friendship, and second chances."

Kirkus Reviews

"An entertaining and endearing tale of resilience in the face of change and loss as well as the opportunities that can come when challenges are met. A sweet tale of dealing with estrangement and finding belonging."

Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Yamile (sha-MEE-lay) is an Argentine-American author. She’s the mother of 5 kids and 2 adorable dogs. Yamile’s an inaugural Walter Dean Meyers Grant recipient, a graduate of Voices of our Nation (VONA) and the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA Writing for Children program.

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