. It was easy for Charlene to follow her dream, but very difficult to confess to her family that racing wasn't her dream or talent, and that she found it boring. Charlene's dream wasn't the same dream that her mother had for her, but her mother was her best friend, and she didn't want to disappoint her. Charlene's mother and her brother taught her that she must attempt to try racing as a test to see how good she would be. Unlike Charlie, Charlene protested with temper tantrums, but fulfilled her duties to make a decision after trying, with respect to her family. Charlene complimented Charlie, Ann, and Blossom for their fine work at Sweetbrier racing stable, knowing her talent was right across the street. Almost everyone that Charlene knew wanted to be a famous racehorse, just like Charlie. But no-one knew that Charlene's talent was quite different, except Charlene, Eva, and Ted. One of the happiest days in Charlene's life was being moved to 'Jumping For Joy Farm. From 5-star review by Geri Ahearn
I enjoyed this book because it is full of life lessons for our children. The mother horse immediately prepares her young colt, Charlene, teaching her how to grow, play and make friends while all along encouraging her that she is beautiful. The mother also teaches Charlene that whatever direction she chooses in life it will be good and not to believe she has to always be like everyone else.Charlene learns the art of working and growing up with the help of many others including a dog named, Elliott. In the end she finds that she is going to take a different road then most of her friends and family and discovers that she excels in the path she has chosen. From 5 star review by author, Susie Honeyicutt.
Format: Paperback
Charlene is a beautiful red horse who was born into a family of outstanding racehorses. Her father, mother, and big brother are all champion racers. Charlene, however, discovers that racing just isn't her thing. Fortunately, her trainers see this, and offer a different path: she becomes a show horse, competing in jumping events. This suits her perfectly, and she becomes a champion.
Charlene the Star is a lovely story that would appeal to kids age 7-12. The dialog between the animals is delightful. It's fun to be "inside" a horse's head to know what the animal is thinking. There is also a sweet friendship that develops between Charlene and a big dog named Elliott. Elliott proves to be a very supportive friend when Charlene needs him. The inherent message of the book is to find your talent and then work hard to develop it. This is a nice message that young kids need to hear. Charlene the Star is a enjoyable read, and one that I would recommend. from
Delightful and Educational. Get it!, July 15, 2013
Charlene the Star is born into a family of champion racehorses but to her dismay she realizes that she does not share the enthusiasm, ability, and desire for racing. In her remarkable way, Deanie Humphrys-Dunne, using the beautiful red-coated Charlene the Star as her "spokeswoman", communicates to young children that they need not be like everyone else but rather that they should pursue that which makes their heart soar. Charlene the Star first tries to fit in and learn to race but her heart was not in it. The beautiful horse finds a way to apprise her trainers of her unhappiness, and then with their help she discovers a different `career' that befits her talents and fills her with joy.
I highly recommend "Charlene the Star," not merely for the wonderful values it conveys, but for the sheer joy of reading a charming and enchanting story. Lovely prose, wonderful imagery, and a delightful way to learn about the world of horses and the people that care, train, and love them.
