Orenstein, Denise Gosliner. Dirt.

Orenstein, Denise Gosliner. Dirt. Scholastic Press  2017  212p  $16.99  ISBN 978-0-545-92585-3    elem/ms     Animal Stories  VG-BN         

Yonder is eleven. Her mother has died and her father is sunken in depression and she will not speak. She is teased at school and lonely.  Her only friend is Dirt, the overweight Shetland pony belonging to her mean next-door neighbor. When a sign goes up offering Dirt for sale for horse meat, Yonder takes action. She cleans out her bedroom and brings Dirt into the house. However, social services get involved and Yonder is taken to a foster home. She runs away. Tracking down the buyer of Dirt, she discovers a failed zoo that is mistreating the animals. Yonder shows great courage and perseverance to rescue Dirt and the other animals. She has exciting adventures and learns how to trust again. The ending is hopeful.
 

Girls and animal lovers will gravitate to this title. The reader will want to cry, rail out at injustice and finally cheer for Yonder.  A great read for grades 3-7.  

Summary: Yonder has her troubles but moves a Shetland pony named Dirt into her house to prevent the sale of him for horse meat.  Adventure ensues as she rescues Dirt and other animals. 

Horse Stories                                                                                                  --Joan Theal