This is the first of a proposed series of four books set in an elite boarding school for girls and their ponies. Aimed at readers aged 9-12, it's written by JP Rose who wrote the brilliant 'Birdie'.

It's George's dream to go to the prestigious Paddock Grove school and when she wins a scholarship, she can't believe her good fortune. But then her local riding school shuts down and the horse she hoped to borrow is sold. Her parents manage to buy another pony, called Bear, but he's scruffy and naughty, the opposite of the well-bred horses her classmates ride.

George struggles to settle in to her new school, but gradually she makes friends and she and Bear also come to understand each better, little by little.

But is it all too late. If Bear misbehaves one more time, they could be thrown out of Paddock Grove. And certainly the opportunites that George hoped would be open to her aren't materialising.

Then a shocking event happens at the school. How will George and Bear get out of this situation?

This is a brilliant book. A traditional, nostalgic pony story, but brought up to date for today's pony-mad 9-12 year old reader.