Jump the Moon
Written by Kathy Simmers
Illustrated by Marjorie van Heerden
Published by Bound to Happen Publishers USA (2020)

Available in Hardback & Paperback.
ISBN – 978-1-7353511-0-0 

Ponies were always coming and going at the barn, that was nothing new, but as summer begins the girl with the long blonde hair notices something about the newest pony to arrive that she can’t quite put her finger on.

This pony is ordinary, ugly even and on top of that, she is mean. But the girl doesn’t seem to care, she is drawn to her and determined to earn the pony’s trust.

Over the course of the summer, the pair develop an incredible bond. But, tragically, as summer ends the two are separated. Readers will eagerly turn the pages to find out if the girl and the pony will ever see each other again.

The beautiful illustrations throughout this picture book bring to life an emotional journey that will make readers of all ages cry, smile, and cheer as it reminds us all to follow our dreams.

AWARDS:

· Golden Medal award winner - 2021 Mom’s Choice Awards® category: Children's Picture Books - an award from entries all over the world.

· Golden Medal award winner - category: 2021 The Bill Fisher Award for Best First Book (Children's/Young Adult).

· Received three 2020 Story Monsters Approved winners awards (in these categories)        * First-Time Author (all ages) winner; * Picture books (Ages 3-8) Fiction winner; * Illustrations/Photography/Artwork winner

To buy the book, go to: https://www.readjumpthemoon.com/shop/

https://www.amazon.com/Jump-Moon-Kathy-Simmers/dp/1735351105/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=Jump+the+Moon+Written+by+Kathy+Simmers+Illustrated+by+Marjorie+van+Heerden&qid=1638020346&qsid=139-8880232-5305851&s=books&sr=1-1-fkmr0&sres=1735351105%2C1543966292%2C1736678701%2CB07X96Q64X%2C1548100323%2CB096Z8CYNS%2C1685152619%2C1536202908&srpt=ABIS_BOOK

 

Top reviews from the United States 

 

PSusan

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful!

Reviewed in the United States on March 4, 2021

The beautiful cover for Jump the Moon by Kathy Simmers author, and Marjorie Van Heerdan illustrator entices you to open and read this story. a misunderstood pony finds acceptance and love only to seemingly lose it. Don’t we all feel misunderstood at times, which means we were rooting for the underdog pony to find that love again.

The lovely illustrations give this realistic story a magical feel while it is a down to earth story. One of the things I liked is how it is a pattern story. By the end even my granddaughters would join in together to say Me Too’s thoughts. That just made it even more fun to read. The author’s note at the end tell that it is based on a true story. We all loved that it especially had the real life happy ending.

This was a favorite of the day for my granddaughters when we read it together. They both gave it 5 stars.

Barbara MojicaTop Contributor: Children's Books

5.0 out of 5 stars DESTINED FOR EACH OTHER

Reviewed in the United States on May 5, 2021

This book relates the sweet tale of a young girl with blonde hair who loves horses. She cannot have her own, so she is working in a barn with a horse trainer for the summer. A gray pony balks at everyone, but this young girl succeeds in developing a special relationship with the pony. As the summer wears on, the two seem to complete each other’s thoughts, hence the phrase, Me Too.

At the end of the summer, the pony is sold. For many years, their paths diverge. The girl begins college. Then she starts to reminisce and dream about the pony. She wants to reconnect. Will she succeed in tracking down the pony and can she restore that special bond of empathy, trust, and kindness.
The soft pastel illustrations impart a whimsical and light-hearted mood to the rhythmic storyline. Highly recommended for elementary grade readers. I received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily chose to read and review it with my honest opinions for no compensation.

The Faggianas

5.0 out of 5 stars Cute book for animal loving kids

Reviewed in the United States on March 29, 2021

Jump the Moon is the story of a young girl who bonds with a pony at a farm where she rides. The pony gets sold to another farm and the girl grows up. The pony and the girl both long to be together once again. They even dream of each other. It’s a story about never giving up on your dreams and the hard work it takes for those dreams to come true.

This book was really sweet. My little girls LOVE horses and the illustrations in this book were beautiful.

It was well written and entertaining to read the many times I have been asked to do so.

The book really focuses on the connection between the girl and the pony, which any animal lover can appreciate.

Definitely recommend!

R.B

5.0 out of 5 stars This story will warm your soul!

Reviewed in the United States on November 22, 2021

A must have for any child! This book is not only, well written, but the illustrations are absolutely beautiful! A perfect addition to any library, as this story will touch your heart on so many levels. The stuffed pony gift set makes the perfect gift too!

thecatlady

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book!

Reviewed in the United States on February 27, 2021

A lovely and heartwarming story with beautiful illustrations.