Review: Honey and the Valley of Horses

Sickness has enveloped the world. To find a safe place, Honey’s family escapes the city in their converted ice-cream van, with enough supplies to last them for some time. 

It is Honey’s fourth birthday. Her brother Rumi is still a baby.

They drive into a rainforest which seems the perfect place to camp. As they fear there is no entrance visible, one is opened by a herd of enchanted horses. 

A bridge magically appears, which they cross into a secret valley, which then closes behind them.

In this valley of horses, the family begins a new, self-sufficient life. 

They learn to forage for food, fish, live day by day in nature, and make do by repurposing everything that is at hand to use as clothing and tools. Lessons and daily chores fill the children's days.

They believe that there is no one left alive outside the valley. Their phones have no reception, and they know nothing of what is happening in the world beyond the valley.

Two of the horses which Honey names Lightning and Moongold, become the family’s protectors and the children’s best friends.

When Papa becomes seriously ill, Honey sets out on Moongold to try to find anyone out there to help.

It is exactly seven years to the day and Honey’s eleventh birthday.

Will she find an opening to the outside world in time to save her father? More importantly, will the valley let them go, or will they remain trapped in this magical place forever?

This is a great adventure story filled with magical mystery.  A delightful read which centres on personal growth, family unity, strength, courage and hope.

Wendy Orr’s words paint pictures that are easily imagined, and that add richness and scope to the background stories.

Title: Honey and the Valley of Horses
Author: Wendy Orr
Publisher:Allen & Unwin, $ 17.99
Publication Date: 1 August 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761068492
For ages: 9 – 13
Type: Middle Grade Fiction

from Kids' Book Review https://ift.tt/tKsL465