Show Strides Vol. 3: Moving Up & Moving On (Volume 3)
#3 in Show Strides Series
What’s inside...
The third entry in the Show Strides middle-grade series follows barn best friends Tally Hart and Mac Bennett as their small-town riding dreams start to feel very real. Joey, Tally’s beloved lease pony, is sold, forcing her to evaluate what “moving up” in the hunter ring really costs. Mac, meanwhile, tries to click with Quinn, a talented but green large pony she hopes to qualify for Pony Finals. Under trainer Ryan’s watchful eye, the girls juggle tougher courses, shifting barn dynamics, and the everyday pressures of school and family—all while discovering that progress sometimes means letting go.
Character compass
Tally Hart
Rabiah
Maggie
Mac Bennett
Meg
Discussion points
How does Tally cope with losing Joey, and what would you do?
Why is teamwork important even in individual sports?
What qualities make Quinn a good match for Mac despite challenges?
How do the girls define success by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Visit a local barn or watch a riding video together to give the terminology context before discussing characters’ choices.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience after loss
Explanation: Tally learns to ride a new pony after Joey is sold.
Real-World Application: Children can practice finding new passions after setbacks.
Example Lesson: Patience in skill-building
Explanation: Mac slowly bonds with green pony Quinn through consistent practice.
Real-World Application: Reminds kids that improvement takes time in any hobby.
Example Lesson: Power of teamwork
Explanation: Barn friends help one another at shows despite individual goals.
Real-World Application: Encourages helping classmates or teammates achieve shared success.
Example Lesson: Healthy goal setting
Explanation: Riders map out show calendars and training milestones.
Real-World Application: Kids can create step-by-step plans for school or sports goals.