Maya is a captive. In Grandmother's house in California, every word and action is strictly monitored, and even Maya's memories of her mother have been erased -- except within the imaginary world she has created. A world away, in the rugged Wyoming wilderness, a tobiano Paint horse called Artemisia runs free, belonging only to the stars. She embodies the spirit of the wild -- and she holds the key to Maya's memories. How Maya's and Artemisia's lives intertwine, like a braided rein, is at the heart of this richly drawn adventure about captivity and freedom, about holding on and letting go.

ABOUT THIS BOOK: Ryan has seen the wild horses. On one of several research rides for this book, she spent eight days in southwestern Wyoming. There, she slept in a tepee on the banks of the Sweetwater River, rode long days in the saddle, and tracked a harem band near the Honeycomb Buttes.

PRAISE FOR PAM MUNOZ RYAN:

"Told in a lyrical, fairy tale-like style....Ryan fluidly juxtaposes world events with one family's will to survive."--Publishers Weekly, starred review, ESPERANZA RISING

"Ryan writes a moving story in clear, poetic language that children will sink into, and the book offers excellent opportunities for discussion and curriculum support." --Booklist, ESPERANZA RISING

"Ebullient and tautly structured....With a pacing that moves along at a gallop, this is a skillful execution of a fascinating historical tale."--Publishers Weekly, starred review, RIDING FREEDOM

ADDITIONAL AWARDS FOR ESPERANZA RISING:

-Willa Cather Award

-Americas Award Honor Book

-Los Angeles Times Book Prize Finalist

-NYPL 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing

-Smithsonian Notable Book

-Children's Literature Choice List

-Notable Books for a Global Society

-Jefferson Cup Award - Worthy of note

-Judy Goddard AZ Young Adult Author of the Year Award

-Judy Lopez Memorial Award

AWARDS AND HONORS FOR RIDING FREEDOM:

-California Young Reader Medal winner (