Quincy and Buck — Camille Matthews

The Quincy the Horse Books, for K-4, help children learn about relationships. The third book, Quincy and Buck, focuses on bullying. In his new adventure, Quincy wants to try trail riding in the desert but he is worried because he knows there are "Surprises waiting for horses out on the trail". His main fear is the wild animals he might meet. Then when Quincy has a chance to go on his first trail ride, the real challenge comes from the horse he chooses for a trail buddy. Buck, an experienced horse Quincy hopes will guide him, turns out to be a bully. The detailed and realistic portrayal of the day's ride will interest and inform K-2 readers and also engage 3rd and 4th graders. The illustrations take kids into the desert of the Southwest with its array of wild animals and breath taking scenery, where horses and motorbikes share the same trails. For the young reader, Quincy's story clearly defines a bully and the associated danger while providing a comforting ending. For the older reader it explores the more complex issues of coping with adversity and how courage evolves. Quincy and Buck provides a framework for a dialogue between young children and those who want to empower them.