Fitting In

Fitting In

by Rhodes, Donham, Martin

This is the true story of a horse named Picasso who started his life in Germany and moved to America when he was five years old. His experiences trying to fit in with his herd parallels the bumps and bruises that many children encounter as they discover who they are, how to retain their individuality and be part of a group.

Reverend Katherine Ragsdale, President and Dean Episcopal Divinity School, Cambridge, Mass: 'Wow! I really like that book. I was hooked from the first page because I loved the tone - the voice. Then the marvelous pictures. And the compelling way you told a simple story without being simplistic and made such marvelous connections between the horse's emotional life and that of the potential readers without being heavy handed or beating us over the head with a moralistic treatise. It invited us in, invited us to make connections, in a very compelling but nor manipulative way. Very smooth! Very well done! I can imagine this is powerful and helpful for your intended audience but it was a lovely and engaging read for me, as well.'

Dennie Davis, a pediatric nurse: '...my close friend's son is socially and developmentally delayed but is quite inquisitive! He is changing schools and change is very hard for him....I asked him if he was interested in reading the book toegther. he agreed and discovered that Picasso is facing the same challenges as he is. We now talk about Picasso, about the difficulties of change, leaving old friends, kids that he may not like, making new friends, new teachers and a new school. For the first time he was able to concentrate and connect with Picasso's problems that mirror his own. I would not have been able to discuss this had I not had "Fitting In" to open the door for both of us. Thank you very much!

Joseph Moore, President of Lesley University, Cambridge, Mass writes: 'I read it yesterday and can now recommend it highly for amy course related to educational administration! Seriously, it is a charming and wise book, showing us through text and photos - and another species - the complexity of group dynamic, friendship, leadership, doubt and anxiety......I am very appreciative and impressed!'


About the authors:

Priscilla, Gisela and Barbara live in midcoast Maine. They drew on their unique backgrounds as teachers, riders, horse owners, and their passion for working with children to create a story that will delight a variety of young readers and horse lovers of all ages.