Trail Mates (Saddle Club series Book 5)
#5 of 94 in Saddle Club Series
on Goodreads (750)
What’s inside...
Carole, Stevie, and Lisa, the three members of The Saddle Club, are totally devoted to horses and to each other. But for Carole, it seems as if there's not much she can count on except riding and the friendship of The Saddle Club. Ever since her mother died, Carole has urged her dad to go out on dates. But now she's afraid that he's getting serious with a woman whom she isn't ready to think of as a stepmother. Meanwhile, Carole's getting the last thing she needs: unwanted attention from a boy. Scott will do anything—even muck out the stable—to get near her. And Stevie and Lisa aren't much help. They're busy modeling for a riding catalog and finding out that modeling's not all it's cracked up to be!
Character compass
Carole Hanson
Lisa Atwood
Stevie Lake
Max Regnery
Veronica Diangelo
Discussion points
How do you think Carole, Stevie, and Lisa's friendship helps them overcome challenges in the story?
What did you learn about responsibility from the characters' experiences at Pine Hollow Stables?
If you were a member of the Saddle Club, what activities would you propose for the group?
How do the characters grow from the beginning to the end of the book, and what challenges do they face?
What role do the horses play in the story, and how do they affect the girls' adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their experiences with friendships to those of Carole, Stevie, and Lisa, fostering a deeper connection to the characters.
Discuss the importance of teamwork as depicted in the book and relate it to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Use the equestrian setting as a springboard to explore your child's interests or fears about animals and nature.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Trail Mates,' the characters work together to navigate challenges during their trail ride, demonstrating how teamwork is crucial to achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or sports teams, learning to cooperate and collaborate with others.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The members of the Saddle Club take on tasks and responsibilities for the trail ride, showing the importance of being dependable and accountable.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take responsibility for their chores, homework, and commitments, knowing their actions contribute to the greater good.
Example Lesson: Building Resilience
Explanation: As the characters face obstacles on their adventure, they learn to persevere and adapt, which is key to building resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this lesson when dealing with challenges in their own lives, understanding that persistence and adaptability are important for overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The story explores the deep bonds between the club members, showing how true friendship provides support and joy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture their friendships, realizing the strength and comfort that comes from close relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters learn about the importance of respecting their environment and the wildlife around them.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be mindful of their surroundings and to practice eco-friendly habits to protect nature.