Heartbreak Bronco (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition)
#13 of 24 in Phantom stallion Series
on Goodreads (787)
What’s inside...
When a hard-luck horse named Jinx comes to River Bend, everyone thinks he's a curse. Samantha knows he's not, but he is unruly, skittish, and the fastest horse she has ever seen. Then there's a runaway in the middle of the night, and someone gets a snakebite. Is the bronco really a jinx? Or could he be the good luck charm Sam needs to save the day? Ages 8-12.
Character compass
Samantha 'sam' Forster
Jake Ely
Wyatt Forster
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to take the actions they did?
How would you feel if you were in the same situation as the main character?
What do you think is the most important lesson the story teaches us?
Can you think of a time when you had to make a difficult decision like the characters in the book?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today’s world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use pauses after each question to give your child time to think and express their thoughts.
Relate the themes of the book to your child's everyday experiences to make the discussion more relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to deepen their understanding of the characters' motivations.
Praise your child for their insights and thoughts to boost their confidence in expressing opinions.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to keep the conversation flowing and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'Heartbreak Bronco,' the characters demonstrate care and understanding towards animals, showing how to treat them with kindness and respect.
Real-World Application: Children learn to extend empathy towards animals and people alike, understanding that all beings deserve compassion.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story emphasizes the responsibilities involved in caring for animals, as characters take on the duty of looking after the bronco.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being responsible and reliable, not only in caring for pets but also in their daily tasks and commitments.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Characters face challenges and setbacks but learn to overcome them, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own obstacles with courage, understanding that perseverance is key to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: The Value of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters work together to solve problems, highlighting the effectiveness of collaboration.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate the benefits of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The natural settings in the book raise awareness about the environment and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
Real-World Application: Children are prompted to think about how they can contribute to environmental conservation in their own community.