Ride North

De: Maria de Jong

Narrado por: Emily Paddon-Brown

Tooth is my pony, but he’s his own boss. I take care of him and in exchange he lets me ride him. I wasn’t surprised when Tooth first communicated with me. All I knew was that with Tooth, it was different. I loved him the minute I saw him. Of course we understood each other.

Twelve-year-old Folly is angry and grieving for her mum. She isn't ready for Dad's plans for a new life in Auckland with his new girlfriend. So Folly runs away with the one friend who truly understands – her wise pony, Tooth. With her mother's ashes in her backpack, Folly sets off to the fabled Cape Reinga, the northernmost point of New Zealand. Through tourist towns and wilderness, across beaches, roads and forest tracks, Folly and Tooth find both adventure and hardship. But then a spur-of-the-moment choice sets danger on their tail. Girl and horse must fight to survive together – to the very end of the road.

©2025 Maria de Jong (P)2025 Bolinda Publishing

Reseñas de la Crítica

'I loved this: funny, quirky, exciting and moving. Folly and Tooth are a great double-act. If you’re a horse person you’ll adore it; if you’re not a horse person, it’ll turn you into one.' (Anthony McGowan, author of Lark)

'Maria de Jong weaves a beautiful tale of adventure, survival and hope, exploring the deep bond between a girl and her pony. Through evocative descriptions and compelling narrative, balancing humour, sadness and wonder, de Jong’s skilful storytelling creates a rich, unforgettable experience that celebrates the unbreakable connection between human and animal.' (J.P. Rose, author of The Haunting of Tyrese Walker)

'A powerful, wise and gripping story from a wonderful new voice in children’s literature. Ride North is a beautiful tale of love, courage and the unique bond between a girl and her horse. It deserves a place alongside the classic horse and pony stories.' (Annelise Gray, author of the Circus Maximus series)

'Maria de Jong’s gorgeously lyrical debut is wry, funny and at times heart-achingly sad. Folly is an engaging young hero: gnarly and determined to ride north with beloved horse Tooth to Cape Reinga, where Tasman Sea meets Pacific Ocean. Their unique bond allows them to outwit pursuers and overcome obstacles on a vividly painted journey through the beautiful New Zealand landscape.' (Gita Ralleigh, author of The Destiny of Minou Moonshine)