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.
Cover art by Sian James
Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
Imprint: Andersen Press UK
Publication date: 06/03/2025
Ride North
by Maria de Jong
Review by Alex A
A charming and moving adventure story, set in New Zealand.
Folly, angry with her father in the wake of her mother’s death, sets out on her horse, Tooth, for Cape Reinga. Tooth is not an ordinary horse – he and Folly can talk, even though nobody else can hear him. The bond between these two friends is the driving force of this adventure-filled and emotionally nuanced tale. Folly is a genuine twelve-year-old, impetuous and full of big feelings. Tooth is her perfect foil - wise, measured and loyal. The journey is packed with action, yet the real story is their enduring friendship. Perfect for kids aged 10+.
