Ride North

Folly’s mother has passed away, and her father has met another woman, Audrey. He’s planning on relocating the family from Dargaville to Auckland. Folly feels her Dad has forgotten her mum already and does her level best to undermine Audrey. 

Deciding to take her mum’s ashes to Cape Reinga, a place of spiritual significance, she plans to ride there on Tooth, her special friend and confidante. Tooth is Folly’s horse.

The front of the book features a map of Northland, New Zealand, which gives perspective on the extent of Folly’s plan.

The narrative is non-stop action with  Folly a victim of a hit-and-run on page two before her journey has even begun. 

However, Folly is determined, loads the camping gear onto Tooth, and they set off. Tooth can converse with Folly, revealing his quirky personality.  The dialogue often induces laughter, and though Tooth grumbles about the load and food, suggesting they return home many times, he is extremely loyal to Folly.

The action ramps up when they have to stow away in a campervan to cross the Hokianga Harbour on a ferry. The bag full of cash is too tempting, Tooth can’t hold on dumping a pile of steaming poo in the campervan, and next minute they’re fearing for their lives with devious men hot on their heels. 

De Jong has done a superb job of wrapping up the story with a satisfying ending. You’ll laugh and cry.

The story explores themes of loyalty, grief, and family. I highly recommend this as a read-aloud; even non-horsey people will enjoy it as Tooth has so much personality.