Ashleigh #5 The Forbidden Stallion
#5 in Thoroughbred: Ashleigh Series
on Goodreads (143)
What’s inside...
When young Ashleigh Griffin encounters a beautiful Edgardale stallion suffering from riding problems, she believes she can change things for the horse if only she is given the opportunity to ride him. Ashleigh is torn between her desire to help the horse and the challenges she faces. Ashleigh Griffen is also facing trouble as she has been spending too much time riding Stardust, causing her grades to suffer. Her parents restrict her from riding until her grades improve. Heartbroken, the Griffen family travels to Florida to visit the wealthy owners of Aladdin, another Edgardale colt with performance issues. Ashleigh is convinced that if she could ride Aladdin, she could unlock his potential as a champion racehorse.
Discussion points
What do you think made Ashleigh take the risks she did with the Forbidden Stallion?
How do you think Ashleigh felt when she had to make tough decisions about the stallion?
What would you have done if you were in Ashleigh’s shoes and why?
How do you think trust plays a role in Ashleigh’s relationship with the stallion and other characters?
What did you learn about responsibility and friendship from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, making connections to their own experiences. Ask them to imagine alternative endings and discuss the possible outcomes. Use the story as a platform to discuss the importance of responsibility, courage, and ethics, relating them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter. Highlight the emotional journey of the characters, asking your child how they would feel in similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Ashleigh #5 The Forbidden Stallion', Ashleigh demonstrates responsibility by caring for a challenging stallion, showing commitment and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being responsible through caring for pets or completing tasks and understanding the impact of their actions on others.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story illustrates empathy through Ashleigh's connection with the stallion, understanding its fears and needs despite its wild nature.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to understand and share the feelings of others, enhancing their interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Ashleigh faces numerous obstacles but remains determined to train and protect the stallion, reflecting her perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist in the face of challenges, whether in their academic pursuits, hobbies, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Respecting Boundaries
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of respecting boundaries as Ashleigh must learn when to give space and when to interact with the stallion.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of respecting others' space and boundaries, fostering healthy social interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Ashleigh shows courage in dealing with a forbidden and misunderstood stallion, navigating fear and societal expectations.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their fears and stand up for what they believe is right, even when it is difficult.