Twelve-year-old Folly is angry and grieving for her mum. She isn't ready for her dad's plans for a new life in Auckland with his girlfriend. So Folly runs away with the only friend who truly understands her; her wise pony Tooth.
Together the pair set off to Cape Reinga, the northernmost point of New Zealand. They find both adventure and hardship on the ride north, but a spur-of-the-moment choice sets danger on their tail.
This is author Maria de Jong's middle-grade fiction novel and it was quite the surprising read. I am not a horse person, but de Jong's story swept me up.
Folly is a headstrong and convincing character, with plenty of personality, wit and determination. While some of her choices left me shaking my head as a parent, others left my heart full. Tooth is a wonderful compliment to Folly, full of sarcasm and spirit.
De Jong's setting, from the windswept beaches to the lush forests of Northland's east coast made me incredibly homesick. Growing up in Whangārei, I was instantly able to place the pair as the story progressed. However, it is the journey of friendship that makes the story.
Folly and Tooth's adventure together, overcoming grief and loss, chaos and crime, makes this a moving and heartwarming tale.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Andersen Press