Calling All Animal Loving Readers!

Q&A with Horse Country Author Yamile Saied Méndez

Yamile wants our horse loving readers, and those who might be shy to jump on the saddle, to learn about the adventures of horse riding in her new book Horse Country available this April!

What inspired you to write Horse Country?

I was inspired to write

Horse Country by my own experience of loving horses all my life and yet not having access to them. I finally had the opportunity to take riding lessons as an adult, and wished that every child had the chance too. I can’t give every kid a horse, but I can write books that let readers learn about and love these amazing animals.

How have animals made a difference in your life?

Animals are wonderful! I grew up with pets, and I love my cat and two dogs. Life isn’t complete without them. They teach generosity, compassion, trust, and don’t require anything other than love.

Who did you write Horse Country for?

I wrote this book for horse and animal lovers, and those who don’t feel comfortable around them too! Hopefully my story will be a little window to peek into a world readers have never considered before, or a mirror in which they can see a reflection of their lives.

Who are some of your favorite characters in Horse Country?

I love all the characters so much, but the heroines Carolina and Chelsie are my favorite, along with Bracken, the little friend who is always tagging along! Among the animals, my two favorites are Twinkletoes, the minidonkey, and Bella, the miniature horse.

Did you always want to be a writer?

I’ve been a reader all my life, and when I was 7, I wrote my first story. But I didn’t know I could become a writer until I was already an adult, after I had a career in a different industry.

What lessons do you want readers to get from reading Horse Country?

Above all, I hope that readers learn to trust themselves, trust their friends, and always be compassionate.

How often do you go horse riding?

Since I don’t own my own, I don’t do it as often as I’d like to, but I take any chance to pet the horses in my neighborhood.

What advice do you have for our readers if they want to become writers?

Read widely! Inspiration can come from anywhere. Also, follow your heart. Only you can tell your stories. Available at Scholastic.com/ Horsecountry April 2022!