To kick off the book reviews, I’m starting off with one of my all-time favorite historical fiction books for upper elementary and middle-grade readers.
Riding Freedom by Pam Muñoz Ryan is a story about a young orphan named Charlotte Parkhurst, who is the only girl at an all-boys’ orphanage. Charlotte’s refuge from her job as the cook’s help is at the stable with the horses, with whom she’s become the best rider at the orphanage. After yet another failed attempt to get adopted and with the threat of being a permanent resident at the orphanage, Charlotte decides to escape. She must transform herself into Charley so she can hopefully get a job as a stage coach driver. The long journey forces her to steal, and lie, but she is taken under the wing of a stage driver who helps her fulfill her dreams.
Charlotte’s transformation, self-discovery, and perseverance make her a captivating protagonist whose adventure holds the reader’s attention all the way through the novel. Ryan is able to transport the reader into 1860’s America with fluidity and accuracy. Though Charlotte is fictional, her tale is one based on true events of certain women during this time. The incorporation of women’s suffrage and such a strong female protagonist makes this novel a compelling read for young girls and an inspirational one for all readers. Brian Selznick’s illustrations truly capture Charlotte’s determination, both as her true self and as Charley.
Overall, this fast read is sure to become a favorite for young readers and provide inspiration for all who dive into Charlotte’s story.
BONUS: As a beginning narrator, I decided to try out narrating the prologue of this book...let me know what you think!
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